19136, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 19136, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.08 percent of the residents in 19136 has some form of health insurance. 46.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.57 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 19136 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,644 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19136. An estimate of 103 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,446 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 100,020 health care providers accessible to residents in 19136, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 19136 and Philadelphia Primary Care

This analysis assesses the quality of primary care for asthma management in Philadelphia, with a specific focus on ZIP code 19136. We will evaluate factors impacting asthma control, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, ultimately providing a comprehensive 'Asthma Score' perspective.

The core of effective asthma care rests on accessible and knowledgeable primary care physicians. ZIP code 19136, encompassing areas like Hunting Park and Nicetown-Tioga, faces significant challenges in this domain. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to appointment delays, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, suboptimal asthma management. Philadelphia, as a whole, has varying physician density across its neighborhoods, with underserved areas like 19136 often experiencing a shortage. This scarcity necessitates a careful examination of existing resources and innovative approaches to improve access.

Evaluating the practices within 19136 and throughout Philadelphia reveals a mixed landscape. Some practices, potentially those affiliated with larger health systems or academic institutions, may demonstrate a higher standard of care. This could manifest in several ways: adherence to national asthma guidelines, patient education programs, and robust electronic health record (EHR) systems that facilitate coordinated care. These practices often possess dedicated asthma educators, nurses, and respiratory therapists, providing a multidisciplinary approach crucial for effective asthma control. Conversely, smaller, independent practices might face resource limitations, potentially impacting their ability to offer the same level of comprehensive care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool to bridge access gaps, particularly in underserved communities. Its adoption rate and effectiveness in asthma management are crucial elements of our 'Asthma Score'. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of peak flow meters, and medication management support, can significantly improve patient outcomes. This is particularly relevant in 19136, where transportation barriers and work schedules can hinder in-person appointments. The ability to connect with a physician remotely, especially during acute exacerbations, can prevent hospitalizations and improve overall asthma control. However, successful telemedicine implementation requires addressing digital literacy issues, ensuring reliable internet access, and providing appropriate training for both patients and providers.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and conversely, the chronic nature of asthma can contribute to mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma care model receive higher marks in our 'Asthma Score'. This could involve on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, or the use of screening tools to identify patients at risk. A holistic approach, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of asthma, is essential for optimal patient well-being.

Another factor influencing the 'Asthma Score' is the availability of specialized asthma resources. This includes access to pulmonologists, allergy specialists, and respiratory therapists. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of asthma management, access to specialists is critical for complex cases or when asthma control is difficult to achieve. The proximity of these specialists to 19136, as well as the ease with which primary care physicians can refer patients, is a key consideration. Furthermore, access to pharmacies with a good selection of asthma medications and devices is also a factor.

Beyond individual practice characteristics, the broader healthcare landscape in Philadelphia impacts the 'Asthma Score'. This includes the presence of community health centers, which often serve as vital safety nets for underserved populations. These centers typically offer a range of services, including primary care, asthma education, and medication assistance programs. The strength and accessibility of these centers in and around 19136 are crucial. Additionally, the city's overall public health initiatives, such as air quality monitoring and asthma awareness campaigns, contribute to the overall environment for asthma management.

The 'Asthma Score' for doctors in ZIP code 19136, and for primary care availability in Philadelphia generally, is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment influenced by a multitude of factors. While some practices demonstrate exemplary care, challenges related to physician access, resource limitations, and the need for increased telemedicine adoption persist. The integration of mental health services and the availability of specialized asthma resources are also areas where improvements are needed. The overall score reflects a complex interplay of factors, and ongoing efforts are needed to improve asthma care for residents of 19136 and throughout Philadelphia.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician density, practice locations, and community health center availability, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify areas with the greatest needs and assess the accessibility of care for asthma patients.