19135, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 19135, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.46 percent of the residents in 19135 has some form of health insurance. 55.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.19 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 19135 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,584 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19135. An estimate of 103 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,379 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 101,532 health care providers accessible to residents in 19135, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

**COPD Score Analysis: Philadelphia, ZIP Code 19135**

Philadelphia, a city steeped in history and vibrant with life, faces significant healthcare challenges. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a debilitating respiratory illness, disproportionately affects certain populations. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care, specifically concerning COPD management, within ZIP code 19135, a specific area within Philadelphia. The goal is to assess the “COPD Score” for this region, considering factors like physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all critical components of comprehensive COPD care.

ZIP code 19135, like many urban areas, likely exhibits a complex interplay of socioeconomic factors impacting health outcomes. This includes potential disparities in access to care, environmental exposures, and lifestyle choices that contribute to COPD prevalence. The analysis will delve into these nuances to paint a comprehensive picture.

The cornerstone of effective COPD management is access to qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). Physician-to-patient ratios are crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, compromised care. Analyzing the number of PCPs practicing within 19135, and comparing it to the population size, provides a baseline understanding of access. Further, this analysis needs to consider the types of practices available. Are there solo practitioners, large group practices, or community health centers? Each model has its strengths and weaknesses in terms of patient access and care coordination.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by these PCPs is paramount. This includes their expertise in COPD diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. Do they adhere to established guidelines for COPD care? Are they equipped to perform necessary diagnostic tests, such as spirometry? Do they have a good understanding of the medications used to treat COPD? The analysis would investigate the training and experience of the PCPs in 19135, specifically focusing on their experience with COPD patients.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor in assessing the COPD Score. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient education, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in underserved areas. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption by PCPs in 19135 involves investigating the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring programs for vital signs and symptoms, and online educational resources for COPD patients. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient outcomes by providing more frequent and convenient access to care.

Mental health is inextricably linked to COPD. The chronic nature of the disease, its impact on breathing, and the associated limitations on daily activities can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The COPD Score must therefore consider the availability of mental health resources for COPD patients within 19135. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, who can provide counseling, therapy, and medication management. The analysis will investigate the integration of mental health services within primary care practices and the availability of referrals to specialized mental health providers.

Identifying standout practices within 19135 that demonstrate excellence in COPD care is also important. These practices may have implemented innovative programs, such as COPD support groups, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, or comprehensive patient education initiatives. They may also demonstrate a strong commitment to patient-centered care, actively involving patients in their treatment decisions. Identifying these practices provides valuable insights into best practices and can serve as models for other providers in the area.

The analysis will also consider the availability of pulmonary specialists within the region. While PCPs are often the first point of contact for COPD patients, pulmonologists play a crucial role in managing complex cases, providing advanced diagnostic testing, and adjusting treatment plans as needed. Access to pulmonologists is particularly important for patients with severe COPD or those who are not responding well to initial treatments.

The analysis will also consider the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These programs, which combine exercise, education, and support, can significantly improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance the quality of life for COPD patients. The presence and accessibility of these programs within or near 19135 will be a factor in determining the COPD Score.

The overall COPD Score for 19135 will be a composite measure, reflecting the various factors discussed above. The score will be based on a weighted system, with each factor contributing to the overall assessment. The final score will provide a comprehensive evaluation of the availability, quality, and accessibility of COPD care in the area.

This analysis will not only highlight the challenges faced by COPD patients in 19135 but also identify opportunities for improvement. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system, policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations can work together to improve the lives of those living with COPD.

For a visual representation of this data, including geographical mapping of physician locations, access to care, and the distribution of resources, explore the CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that can help you visualize the data and understand the landscape of COPD care in Philadelphia.