19120, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 19120, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.09 percent of the residents in 19120 has some form of health insurance. 57.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.87 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 19120 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 23,261 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19120. An estimate of 108 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,873 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 105,666 health care providers accessible to residents in 19120, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Philadelphia (19120) Primary Care Landscape

This analysis delves into the primary care landscape within Philadelphia's 19120 ZIP code, focusing on factors relevant to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management. It examines physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, culminating in a COPD Score assessment. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment for COPD patients in this specific area.

The 19120 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Olney and Feltonville, presents a unique demographic profile. Understanding the prevalence of COPD within this community is crucial for evaluating the adequacy of healthcare resources. This analysis assumes a moderate prevalence of COPD based on national averages, requiring a robust primary care infrastructure.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access Challenges**

A critical component of COPD management is timely access to primary care physicians. The physician-to-patient ratio in 19120 is a key indicator of accessibility. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall availability of primary care physicians in Philadelphia, and specifically within this ZIP code, is a significant factor. Areas with a lower density of primary care providers often experience longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation for COPD patients. This can lead to poorer health outcomes.

Furthermore, the ability of physicians to accept new patients is another crucial metric. Practices with closed panels, or those consistently operating at capacity, may limit access to care. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, within the immediate vicinity is also critical for comprehensive COPD care. Easy access to respiratory therapists and pulmonary rehabilitation programs is also vital.

**Practice Characteristics and Quality of Care**

The characteristics of primary care practices in 19120 significantly impact the quality of COPD care. Practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems often have access to more resources, including advanced diagnostic equipment and specialized support services. The presence of on-site spirometry testing, a crucial diagnostic tool for COPD, is a significant advantage.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important factor. EHRs facilitate better care coordination, medication management, and the tracking of patient outcomes. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively can improve communication between providers and patients, leading to more proactive and personalized care plans.

**Standout Practices and Their Approaches**

Identifying standout practices within 19120 requires a closer look at their approach to COPD management. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, self-management support, and regular follow-up are likely to achieve better outcomes. These practices often employ dedicated staff, such as nurses or respiratory therapists, to assist patients in managing their condition.

Some practices may have specific programs tailored to COPD patients, such as smoking cessation support groups or pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These programs can play a vital role in improving lung function, reducing exacerbations, and enhancing the overall quality of life for COPD patients.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care for COPD patients, particularly in areas with limited physician availability. Telemedicine consultations can provide convenient access to medical advice, medication refills, and remote monitoring of symptoms.

The adoption rate of telemedicine within primary care practices in 19120 is a key indicator of accessibility. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring devices, and online patient portals, enabling patients to manage their condition more effectively. However, the digital divide, with unequal access to technology and internet connectivity, can pose a challenge for some patients.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Importance**

COPD can have a significant impact on mental health. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, an integral part of comprehensive COPD care.

The availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through referrals is a critical factor. Practices that offer integrated behavioral health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals can provide more holistic care. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups.

**COPD Score Assessment and Conclusion**

Based on the factors discussed, a COPD Score for primary care in 19120 can be derived. This score would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. A higher score would indicate a more favorable healthcare environment for COPD patients.

The assessment, in reality, would require a comprehensive data collection process, including surveys of practices, analysis of public health data, and patient feedback. However, based on general knowledge of the Philadelphia healthcare landscape, the 19120 ZIP code likely presents some challenges in terms of access to care, particularly for specialized services.

The final COPD Score would be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It can help identify areas for improvement and guide efforts to enhance the quality of COPD care in this community. The score would be a dynamic measure, reflecting changes in the healthcare environment over time.

**Call to Action**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 19120 and beyond, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide detailed geographic information, allowing you to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your area.