19135, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 19135, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.46 percent of the residents in 19135 has some form of health insurance. 55.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.19 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 19135 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,584 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19135. An estimate of 103 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,379 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 101,532 health care providers accessible to residents in 19135, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Philadelphia, ZIP Code 19135

Philadelphia's 19135 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Olney and Feltonville, presents a complex landscape for asthma management. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, culminating in an "Asthma Score" assessment. This score reflects the overall accessibility and quality of care for asthma sufferers in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective asthma care rests on accessible primary care. In 19135, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio reveals potential challenges. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. Conversely, a lower ratio generally suggests better access to care, allowing for more frequent check-ups and proactive management. Data from sources like the Philadelphia Department of Public Health and the Pennsylvania Medical Society, when analyzed, can reveal the precise physician-to-patient ratio in 19135.

Beyond simple numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are practices clustered in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Are there sufficient practices accepting new patients, particularly those with Medicaid or other forms of insurance common in this area? These factors significantly impact the Asthma Score. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in 19135 is a positive indicator. FQHCs often provide comprehensive care, including asthma management, and serve a diverse population, improving access for those who may face barriers to care.

Identifying standout practices within 19135 is crucial. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management, evidenced by specialized staff, patient education programs, and adherence to national guidelines, deserve recognition. These practices often have robust systems for monitoring patient symptoms, adjusting medication regimens, and providing proactive care. Examining patient reviews and practice websites can provide insights into these practices' reputations and service offerings. Further, data on the number of asthma-related emergency room visits and hospitalizations from these practices can provide a more objective assessment of their effectiveness.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, particularly for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Its adoption in 19135 significantly impacts the Asthma Score. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, facilitating medication refills, symptom monitoring, and routine check-ins. This is especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in underserved areas. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring devices, contribute positively to the Asthma Score. Conversely, practices that lag in telemedicine adoption may limit access to care, particularly for those who face barriers to in-person visits.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, potentially exacerbating symptoms and impacting overall quality of life. The availability of mental health resources within 19135 is therefore a critical component of the Asthma Score. Are there readily accessible mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who specialize in treating patients with chronic illnesses? Do primary care practices offer integrated behavioral health services? Partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers can improve access to coordinated care, contributing positively to the Asthma Score. The presence of support groups and educational programs focused on managing both asthma and mental health challenges further enhances the score.

To calculate the Asthma Score for 19135, a weighted approach is necessary. Each factor – physician-to-patient ratio, distribution of practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources – is assigned a weight based on its relative importance. For example, physician access might be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption, though both are important. Data from various sources, including the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, and practice websites, are collected and analyzed. Each factor is then assigned a score based on its performance, and the weighted scores are combined to produce the final Asthma Score.

The overall Asthma Score for 19135 will reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure. A high score indicates a well-resourced area with good access to care, robust telemedicine offerings, and integrated mental health services. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine adoption, and improving access to mental health resources. The Asthma Score serves as a valuable tool for identifying areas needing improvement and guiding resource allocation.

Furthermore, assessing primary care availability across Philadelphia, more broadly, is essential to understanding the context of 19135. Analyzing physician distribution across the city, identifying areas with high asthma prevalence, and evaluating the availability of specialized asthma care can reveal disparities in access. This broader analysis helps identify areas where resources are most needed and informs strategies to improve asthma management citywide.

The data used for this analysis needs constant updating. Healthcare landscapes are dynamic, with practices opening, closing, and adopting new technologies. Regularly reviewing and updating the data ensures the Asthma Score remains accurate and relevant. This continuous monitoring allows for tracking progress and identifying emerging challenges.

Ultimately, the goal is to improve the lives of asthma sufferers in 19135 and throughout Philadelphia. By understanding the current state of care, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing targeted interventions, the city can work towards ensuring that all asthma patients have access to the high-quality care they deserve. This includes promoting patient education, encouraging self-management strategies, and advocating for policies that support asthma prevention and treatment.

Want to visualize this data and uncover even deeper insights into asthma care accessibility in Philadelphia? Explore the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps.