19129, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 19129, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.13 percent of the residents in 19129 has some form of health insurance. 28.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.82 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 19129 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,925 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19129. An estimate of 107 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,548 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 104,626 health care providers accessible to residents in 19129, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

**COPD Score Analysis: Philadelphia Primary Care (ZIP Code 19129)**

The analysis below provides a COPD Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 19129 ZIP code of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This evaluation considers factors crucial for COPD management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, and access to supportive services. The goal is to offer a comprehensive picture of the resources available to patients in need of COPD care, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective COPD care rests on readily accessible primary care. In Philadelphia, and specifically within 19129, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical determinant of care quality. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per PCP, can lead to longer wait times, rushed appointments, and potentially, less comprehensive care. Data from the Philadelphia Department of Public Health and the Pennsylvania Medical Society are essential to accurately assess the current physician-to-patient ratio within this specific ZIP code. This ratio directly impacts the ability of patients to receive timely diagnoses, regular check-ups, and proactive management of their COPD.

Beyond sheer numbers, the specific characteristics of primary care practices in 19129 significantly influence the quality of COPD care. Practices that emphasize a patient-centered approach, providing extended appointment times and clear communication strategies, are more likely to foster positive patient outcomes. Practices with dedicated nursing staff trained in respiratory care, including administering pulmonary function tests and educating patients on medication management and lifestyle modifications, are invaluable. The availability of on-site respiratory therapists or readily accessible referral networks for specialized pulmonary care is also crucial.

Several practices within 19129 may stand out as exemplary in their COPD care delivery. These practices may demonstrate a commitment to patient education, utilizing educational materials and support groups to empower patients to manage their condition. They might employ innovative strategies, such as personalized care plans tailored to individual patient needs and risk factors. Furthermore, practices with a strong emphasis on preventative care, including regular flu and pneumonia vaccinations, can significantly reduce the risk of exacerbations and hospitalizations for COPD patients. Identifying these standout practices is a critical component of the COPD Score assessment.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a transformative tool in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Practices that have embraced telemedicine offer patients convenient access to virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of vital signs. This can be especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. The COPD Score will evaluate the extent of telemedicine adoption within 19129, assessing the availability of virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring tools, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD care is the impact of mental health. COPD can significantly affect a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices is crucial. The COPD Score will assess the presence of on-site mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, or the availability of referrals to mental health specialists. Integrated care models that address both physical and mental health needs are particularly beneficial for COPD patients.

The COPD Score assessment also considers the accessibility of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These programs provide structured exercise, education, and support to help patients improve their lung function, manage their symptoms, and enhance their quality of life. The availability of these programs within 19129, either directly within primary care practices or through readily accessible referral networks, is a key factor in the overall COPD Score.

Furthermore, the COPD Score will evaluate the practices' adherence to evidence-based guidelines for COPD management, such as those established by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD). This includes assessing the use of appropriate medications, the frequency of pulmonary function testing, and the implementation of smoking cessation programs. Practices that consistently adhere to these guidelines are more likely to deliver high-quality COPD care.

The analysis will also consider the presence of patient support groups within the community. These groups provide a valuable forum for patients to connect with each other, share experiences, and receive emotional support. The COPD Score will assess the availability of these support groups and their accessibility to patients within 19129.

Finally, the COPD Score assessment will consider the affordability of care. This includes assessing the acceptance of various insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the transparency of pricing. The goal is to ensure that all patients, regardless of their financial circumstances, have access to the care they need.

The COPD Score analysis for 19129 will be a dynamic assessment. As healthcare practices evolve and new technologies emerge, the COPD Score will need to be updated regularly to reflect the changing landscape of COPD care. This ongoing evaluation will help to identify areas for improvement and ensure that patients in 19129 have access to the best possible care. The COPD Score will provide a valuable resource for patients, physicians, and policymakers seeking to improve the management of COPD within this specific ZIP code.

**Call to Action**

To visualize the distribution of primary care resources, physician-to-patient ratios, and other relevant data points within the 19129 ZIP code and across Philadelphia, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a powerful tool for understanding the geographical nuances of healthcare access.