19144, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 19144, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.23 percent of the residents in 19144 has some form of health insurance. 50.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.99 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 19144 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,311 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19144. An estimate of 90 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,728 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 96,061 health care providers accessible to residents in 19144, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The landscape of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care in Philadelphia's 19144 ZIP code, a densely populated area, presents a complex interplay of factors impacting patient outcomes. This analysis provides a COPD Score assessment, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all crucial for effective COPD management.

The foundation of effective COPD care rests on accessible primary care. In 19144, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly influences the ability of patients to receive timely diagnoses, ongoing management, and preventative care. A lower PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed interventions. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, allowing for proactive care and improved patient outcomes. The overall primary care landscape in Philadelphia, while showing improvements in some areas, still faces challenges. Certain neighborhoods experience shortages, and this scarcity can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including those at higher risk for COPD.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. Accurate data on the specific ratio within 19144 is essential. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide estimates, but these often represent broader geographic areas. Therefore, a more granular analysis, perhaps incorporating data from insurance providers and local healthcare networks, is necessary to determine the precise ratio within the ZIP code. This ratio directly affects the ability of patients to secure timely appointments for COPD screenings, pulmonary function tests, and regular check-ups. A low ratio can strain resources, leading to longer wait times and potentially compromising the quality of care.

Identifying standout practices within 19144 is crucial. These practices often demonstrate best practices in COPD management, which can serve as models for others. Key indicators include: the use of evidence-based guidelines, patient education programs, smoking cessation support, and the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation services. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and track patient outcomes are also likely to be high performers. These practices often have dedicated staff, including nurses and respiratory therapists, who are specifically trained in COPD care. Their commitment to patient education, including proper inhaler technique and exacerbation management, can significantly impact patient adherence and reduce hospitalizations.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in COPD care, particularly in areas with limited access to in-person services. Telemedicine allows for remote monitoring of patients' vital signs, virtual consultations, and medication management. In 19144, the availability and adoption of telemedicine services can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas. However, the success of telemedicine depends on several factors, including patient access to technology, digital literacy, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into existing healthcare systems. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide more frequent check-ins, allowing for early detection of exacerbations and proactive interventions.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, but they are critically important. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation, which can negatively impact patient outcomes. Access to mental health services, including counseling and support groups, is essential for addressing these issues. In 19144, the availability of mental health resources, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is a significant factor in overall COPD care. Integrated care models, where mental health services are offered within the primary care setting, can improve access and coordination of care. Practices that prioritize mental health screening and provide referrals to appropriate resources are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients.

The COPD Score for 19144, therefore, is a composite of these factors. It's not a single number but a nuanced assessment reflecting the availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score would indicate a strong healthcare infrastructure, with ample access to primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of exemplary practices, robust telemedicine capabilities, and readily available mental health support. A low score would suggest challenges in one or more of these areas, potentially leading to poorer patient outcomes.

The overall primary care availability in Philadelphia affects the COPD Score for 19144. The city-wide trends, including physician shortages in some areas, impact the resources available to the residents of this ZIP code. Initiatives aimed at increasing the number of PCPs, improving access to specialists, and expanding telehealth services can significantly improve the COPD Score. Furthermore, targeted interventions, such as community health worker programs and patient education campaigns, can address the specific needs of the population in 19144 and improve COPD outcomes.

The analysis suggests that while some practices in 19144 may be excelling in COPD management, there is room for improvement across the board. The physician-to-patient ratio needs careful assessment, and efforts to expand telemedicine and integrate mental health services are crucial. By understanding these factors, healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients can work together to improve the quality of COPD care in this area.

To visualize the geographical distribution of these factors and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 19144 and beyond, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. These maps provide a powerful tool for identifying areas of need, understanding resource allocation, and informing strategic planning to improve COPD care.