19121, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 19121, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.38 percent of the residents in 19121 has some form of health insurance. 51.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.00 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 19121 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,915 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19121. An estimate of 108 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,426 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 105,106 health care providers accessible to residents in 19121, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below provides an "Asthma Score" assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) in ZIP code 19121, Philadelphia, considering factors relevant to asthma management. This score incorporates physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, all crucial elements influencing the quality of asthma care. The evaluation aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape for asthma patients and their families.

The foundation of a good asthma score begins with accessibility. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. High ratios, indicating a larger patient load per physician, can potentially limit the time available for thorough patient assessments, detailed education on asthma management, and regular follow-up appointments. Conversely, lower ratios generally suggest greater availability and potentially improved patient care. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from health insurance provider networks, are essential for accurately determining these ratios within the 19121 ZIP code. The analysis would need to consider the availability of both general PCPs and those with specialized training or interest in pulmonology or allergy/immunology, as these specialists often play a vital role in managing complex asthma cases.

Beyond sheer numbers, the structure and characteristics of the practices themselves significantly influence the asthma score. Practices that are part of larger healthcare systems often have access to more resources, including specialized equipment for lung function testing (spirometry), asthma education programs, and integrated electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs facilitate better communication between providers, allow for more efficient monitoring of patient progress, and can streamline medication management. Practices that are patient-centered medical homes (PCMHs), a model emphasizing coordinated, comprehensive, and accessible care, generally receive higher scores. PCMHs often have dedicated care coordinators who can help patients navigate the healthcare system, schedule appointments, and manage their medications, all of which are particularly beneficial for asthma patients.

Telemedicine has become an increasingly important factor in healthcare delivery, and its adoption directly impacts the asthma score. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of asthma symptoms, making care more accessible, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in underserved areas. Practices that offer telemedicine options, particularly for follow-up appointments and symptom management, would receive higher scores. The effectiveness of telemedicine also depends on the technology used and the training provided to both physicians and patients. User-friendly platforms, coupled with clear instructions and technical support, are crucial for successful telemedicine implementation.

Mental health is an often-overlooked but critical component of asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, receive higher scores. Collaboration between PCPs and mental health professionals is especially beneficial, ensuring that patients receive holistic care that addresses both their physical and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources, including access to therapists, support groups, and educational materials, is a crucial consideration.

Within the 19121 ZIP code, identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves analyzing patient reviews, seeking feedback from local asthma support groups, and examining practice websites and brochures. Practices that actively promote asthma education, offer specialized asthma programs, and demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care would likely be considered exemplary. These practices often have dedicated staff trained in asthma management, provide educational materials, and actively engage with patients to develop personalized asthma action plans.

The analysis would also consider the availability of resources within the broader Philadelphia healthcare system. This includes access to specialist care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, as well as emergency care facilities equipped to handle asthma exacerbations. The proximity of these resources and the ease with which patients can access them are important considerations. The presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers, which often serve vulnerable populations, also contribute to the overall asthma score.

Finally, the analysis must consider the socioeconomic factors that impact asthma management. Asthma disproportionately affects low-income communities, where factors like poor housing quality, environmental pollution, and limited access to healthcare can exacerbate symptoms. Practices located in areas with high rates of poverty or environmental hazards would be evaluated based on their efforts to address these challenges. This may include providing free or low-cost medications, offering asthma education programs in multiple languages, and advocating for policies that improve environmental quality.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for PCPs in ZIP code 19121, Philadelphia, reflects a multifaceted assessment of the healthcare landscape. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the socioeconomic context. This analysis aims to provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to improve asthma care in the community. The final score is an aggregate, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care system as it relates to asthma management.

For a visual representation of these findings, including practice locations, physician-to-patient ratios, and access to resources, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome.