19134, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 19134, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.00 percent of the residents in 19134 has some form of health insurance. 62.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 34.66 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 19134 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 18,363 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19134. An estimate of 103 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,443 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 101,712 health care providers accessible to residents in 19134, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in 19134 and Primary Care in Philadelphia

Analyzing asthma care access within Philadelphia, particularly focusing on ZIP code 19134, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), their capacity to manage asthma, and the integration of resources that support comprehensive patient care. The aim is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practice models, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial for effective asthma management.

The foundation of asthma care rests on accessible and competent primary care. Philadelphia, like many urban areas, faces challenges in ensuring equitable access to PCPs. In 19134, a ZIP code often associated with socioeconomic disparities, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A high ratio, signifying fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced appointment durations, and ultimately, compromised asthma control. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) is essential to quantify this ratio accurately. This data, however, fluctuates, and regular updates are necessary for a true assessment.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. PCPs must possess a solid understanding of asthma management, including diagnosis, treatment plans, medication adherence, and patient education. Asthma is a chronic disease, and effective management requires ongoing monitoring and adjustments to treatment. This includes the proper use of inhalers, recognizing triggers, and developing personalized action plans. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma education, such as offering patient workshops or providing educational materials, will score higher in our assessment.

Standout practices within 19134 and the broader Philadelphia area will be identified based on their commitment to patient-centered care. This includes evaluating their accessibility, such as extended hours or weekend appointments, and their responsiveness to patient needs. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, such as health fairs or school-based asthma education initiatives, will be recognized for their dedication to improving community health. Furthermore, practices that collaborate effectively with specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, to provide coordinated care for complex cases are essential.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like asthma, particularly in underserved areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce the need for in-person visits, and provide remote monitoring capabilities. Practices that have successfully adopted telemedicine platforms for asthma management, including virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of peak flow meters, will receive a higher score. The effectiveness of these platforms, as measured by patient satisfaction and improved asthma control, is a key factor in the evaluation.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health resources into their asthma care model will be given preferential consideration. This includes offering on-site mental health services, referring patients to mental health professionals, or incorporating mental health screenings into routine asthma checkups. These resources can improve patient outcomes and overall well-being.

Evaluating primary care availability in Philadelphia requires a city-wide perspective. The distribution of PCPs across different ZIP codes, including 19134, is a crucial factor. Data from professional organizations, such as the Philadelphia County Medical Society, can provide insights into physician distribution and the availability of specialized asthma care. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and other safety-net providers, which often serve vulnerable populations, is also essential. These centers often provide comprehensive care, including asthma management, and can play a vital role in improving asthma outcomes in underserved communities.

The "Asthma Score" for 19134 and Philadelphia, therefore, is not a single number, but rather a composite assessment based on multiple factors. The assessment will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the adoption of innovative practice models, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Each factor will be weighted according to its importance in achieving optimal asthma control and patient well-being.

The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care in the target area. This information can then be used to inform policy decisions, allocate resources, and improve patient outcomes. This analysis will identify areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding access to telemedicine, and integrating mental health services into asthma care. It will also highlight best practices that can be replicated in other areas.

Ultimately, the success of asthma management hinges on a collaborative approach involving physicians, patients, families, and the community. By assessing the availability and quality of care, we can identify opportunities to improve the lives of individuals living with asthma in Philadelphia.

For a visual representation of physician locations, patient demographics, and other relevant data points, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform allows for a deeper dive into the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and the identification of areas with the greatest need.