19154, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 19154, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.56 percent of the residents in 19154 has some form of health insurance. 34.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.95 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 19154 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,558 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19154. An estimate of 86 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,435 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 86,414 health care providers accessible to residents in 19154, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Philadelphia's 19154 ZIP Code

Philadelphia's 19154 ZIP code, encompassing portions of the Somerton and Bustleton neighborhoods, presents a unique landscape for primary care access, particularly concerning chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Analyzing the availability and quality of care for COPD patients requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a COPD Score assessment for physicians within this specific area, focusing on the factors that directly impact patient outcomes.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of accessibility. A high ratio, indicating a greater number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced time spent with each patient. While precise data on the physician-to-patient ratio specifically within 19154 is difficult to obtain without proprietary datasets, we can infer general trends. The overall primary care physician density in Philadelphia is a factor, but the distribution within specific ZIP codes varies. Areas with a higher concentration of elderly residents or those with lower socioeconomic status often experience greater demand for primary care services, potentially leading to higher patient-to-physician ratios. This increased demand can strain the system, impacting the quality and timeliness of care for COPD patients, who often require frequent monitoring and management.

Several primary care practices within or serving the 19154 area demonstrate notable characteristics relevant to COPD care. Practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems, such as those connected to hospitals or health networks, often have access to more comprehensive resources. This includes specialized respiratory care services, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and a broader range of diagnostic tools. These practices may also have established protocols for COPD management, adhering to evidence-based guidelines and offering patient education programs. Furthermore, the presence of dedicated respiratory therapists within a practice can significantly enhance the quality of care for COPD patients, providing essential support for medication management, breathing techniques, and lifestyle modifications.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Its adoption within primary care practices in 19154 is a crucial factor in the COPD Score analysis. Telemedicine allows for remote monitoring of patients' symptoms, medication adjustments, and virtual consultations, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in areas with limited transportation options. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring devices, and secure communication channels, are likely to receive higher scores. The ability to remotely monitor patients' oxygen saturation levels, peak flow rates, and medication adherence can significantly improve disease management and prevent exacerbations.

The link between COPD and mental health is undeniable. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges due to the chronic nature of their illness, the limitations it imposes on their daily lives, and the fear of exacerbations. The availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or through referrals is a crucial component of comprehensive COPD care. Practices that integrate mental health screening, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists are better equipped to address the psychological needs of their patients. This integrated approach can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, reduce hospitalizations, and enhance overall quality of life.

Assessing the COPD Score for physicians in 19154 requires considering several factors. Practices with a lower patient-to-physician ratio, indicating greater accessibility, will receive higher scores. Practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems, offering specialized respiratory care and pulmonary rehabilitation programs, will also score favorably. The adoption of telemedicine, providing remote monitoring and virtual consultations, is a significant positive indicator. Finally, the integration of mental health resources, either within the practice or through referral networks, is essential for comprehensive COPD care and will contribute to a higher score.

The overall COPD Score for physicians in 19154 is likely variable. Some practices, particularly those affiliated with larger health systems and actively embracing telemedicine, are likely to provide a higher level of care. Others, potentially facing resource limitations or lacking the infrastructure for telemedicine, may score lower. Addressing the disparities in access and quality of care requires a multi-pronged approach, including increasing the number of primary care physicians in the area, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and ensuring access to mental health services.

For a visual representation of primary care availability and physician distribution in Philadelphia, including the 19154 ZIP code, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize healthcare data, helping to identify areas with limited access and understand the geographical distribution of resources.