19152, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 19152, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.30 percent of the residents in 19152 has some form of health insurance. 40.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.03 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 19152 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,116 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19152. An estimate of 86 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,641 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 91,527 health care providers accessible to residents in 19152, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below examines asthma care within ZIP code 19152, focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, and the broader context of primary care access in Philadelphia. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to asthma patients in this specific area.

Assessing asthma care requires a multifaceted approach, moving beyond simple metrics. We must consider factors like physician density, the integration of specialized asthma management protocols, and the accessibility of mental health support, which is crucial given the psychological impact of chronic respiratory conditions.

Within ZIP code 19152, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a key indicator. A low ratio, signifying a higher number of patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment durations, and potentially compromised care quality. Data on this ratio, ideally broken down by insurance type (e.g., Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance), is essential for a comprehensive evaluation. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide this information, although it may require significant data aggregation and analysis.

Beyond simple physician counts, the quality of care is paramount. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based asthma management should be highlighted. This includes those that adhere to national guidelines, utilize standardized asthma action plans, and regularly assess patient control. Practices that actively track patient outcomes, such as exacerbation rates and emergency room visits, demonstrate a proactive approach to improving patient health. Identifying these standout practices involves reviewing practice websites, patient reviews (while acknowledging their limitations), and potentially contacting local healthcare advocacy groups.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for asthma patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Remote monitoring of peak flow meters, virtual follow-up appointments, and educational resources can improve patient self-management and reduce the need for in-person visits. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their asthma care protocols should be recognized. This requires examining practice websites, telehealth platform usage, and patient feedback.

The availability of mental health resources is often overlooked in asthma care, yet it is a critical component of holistic treatment. Chronic respiratory conditions can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to address the comprehensive needs of their patients. This involves researching the practice's network of mental health providers, the availability of counseling services, and the integration of mental health screening tools.

Moving beyond ZIP code 19152, the overall primary care landscape in Philadelphia influences asthma care access. The city's primary care availability, particularly in underserved areas, can affect the ability of asthma patients to receive timely and appropriate care. Factors such as the concentration of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), the availability of specialists (e.g., pulmonologists and allergists), and the geographic distribution of healthcare facilities all contribute to the overall accessibility of care. Data on these factors, from sources like the Philadelphia Department of Public Health and the Philadelphia Health Partnership, is crucial for understanding the broader context.

The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) also plays a role. Practices that utilize interoperable EHR systems can improve care coordination, facilitate information sharing between providers, and streamline administrative processes. This can lead to better patient outcomes and a more efficient healthcare delivery system. Assessing EHR adoption requires examining practice websites, reviewing practice certifications, and potentially contacting local healthcare IT vendors.

Furthermore, the presence of community health programs can enhance asthma care. Programs that offer asthma education, home environmental assessments, and medication assistance can empower patients to manage their condition effectively. Identifying and evaluating these programs requires researching local community health initiatives and partnering with healthcare advocacy organizations.

In the context of asthma management, the use of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) is becoming increasingly important. PROs involve collecting information directly from patients about their symptoms, quality of life, and treatment experiences. Practices that actively incorporate PROs into their care protocols can gain valuable insights into patient needs and tailor their treatment plans accordingly. Assessing the use of PROs requires examining practice protocols, reviewing patient surveys, and potentially contacting the practice directly.

Ultimately, a comprehensive assessment of asthma care in ZIP code 19152 and Philadelphia requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating practice characteristics, examining telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources and community health programs. It also requires considering the broader context of primary care availability and the integration of technology and patient-centered care principles.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 19152 and across Philadelphia, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive visualizations that can help you identify areas with high and low access to care, allowing for a more informed understanding of the healthcare needs in your community.