19146, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 19146, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.49 percent of the residents in 19146 has some form of health insurance. 27.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.08 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 19146 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,479 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19146. An estimate of 87 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,810 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 93,849 health care providers accessible to residents in 19146, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 19146 & Primary Care Availability in Philadelphia**

Analyzing the accessibility and quality of asthma care in Philadelphia, with a specific focus on ZIP code 19146, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the crucial link between asthma and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current landscape and identify areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective asthma management is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Philadelphia, like many urban centers, faces challenges in PCP distribution. In ZIP code 19146, which encompasses parts of South Philadelphia, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A high ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment adjustments for asthma sufferers. Public health data and local medical society reports are essential for determining the precise ratio within this specific ZIP code, but it is likely that the area faces shortages.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices are crucial. Practices that prioritize asthma management often have dedicated staff, such as certified asthma educators, who provide patient education on triggers, medication adherence, and proper inhaler technique. These practices may also have robust systems for monitoring asthma control, including regular spirometry testing and personalized action plans. The presence of these resources significantly improves patient outcomes. Identifying standout practices within 19146 requires examining patient reviews, practice websites, and potentially conducting interviews with local healthcare providers.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for enhancing healthcare access, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially easing the burden of frequent office visits. In the context of 19146, telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those facing transportation challenges. The adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care practices in this ZIP code is a key factor in assessing overall asthma care quality. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to be better positioned to provide timely and convenient care.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can exacerbate anxiety and depression, and conversely, mental health conditions can worsen asthma symptoms and control. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, an integral part of comprehensive asthma care. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Primary care practices should ideally have established referral pathways to mental health providers. In 19146, assessing the availability of these resources and the integration of mental health services into asthma management is a vital component of the overall asthma score.

The broader context of primary care availability in Philadelphia influences the asthma care landscape. The city-wide physician-to-patient ratio, the distribution of specialists (such as pulmonologists and allergists), and the presence of community health centers all contribute to the overall accessibility of care. Analyzing these factors provides a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing asthma patients in 19146. Initiatives aimed at improving primary care access throughout Philadelphia, such as expanding medical school enrollment, increasing funding for community health centers, and promoting the use of telemedicine, will ultimately benefit asthma sufferers.

Data on insurance coverage within 19146 is also relevant. A significant portion of the population may rely on Medicaid or other public insurance programs. Practices that accept these insurance plans and have experience navigating the complexities of these programs are crucial for ensuring equitable access to care. The financial burden of asthma medication and treatment can be significant, and practices that offer financial assistance programs or connect patients with resources for medication assistance are particularly valuable.

Furthermore, an assessment of the local environment is important. Air quality, housing conditions, and the presence of common asthma triggers (such as mold, dust mites, and pests) can significantly impact asthma control. Public health initiatives aimed at improving air quality, providing housing assistance, and educating residents about asthma triggers are essential for creating a supportive environment for asthma sufferers.

The effectiveness of asthma management also depends on patient education and self-management skills. Practices that provide culturally competent education materials, offer asthma action plans, and encourage patients to actively participate in their care are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. The level of health literacy among residents of 19146 is also a factor, as it influences the ability of patients to understand and follow medical advice.

Finally, ongoing monitoring and evaluation are crucial for assessing the effectiveness of asthma care initiatives. Tracking asthma-related hospitalizations, emergency room visits, and school absences can provide valuable insights into the impact of interventions. Regularly updating the asthma score analysis, incorporating new data, and adapting strategies based on the findings are essential for continuous improvement. This includes evaluating the impact of new technologies, such as remote monitoring devices that track lung function and medication adherence.

In conclusion, the asthma score analysis for 19146 and primary care availability in Philadelphia is a complex undertaking. It requires gathering data from multiple sources, analyzing various factors, and considering the interconnectedness of healthcare, environmental, and socioeconomic factors. This analysis highlights the need for a multi-pronged approach that addresses physician shortages, promotes technological integration, prioritizes mental health services, and empowers patients to actively manage their asthma.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of physicians, healthcare resources, and environmental factors influencing asthma care in 19146 and throughout Philadelphia, explore the interactive maps available at CartoChrome.