19144, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 19144, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 97 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.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: 19144 & Philadelphia Primary Care

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for primary care availability within Philadelphia, specifically focusing on the 19144 ZIP code. We will examine various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This evaluation aims to paint a comprehensive picture of the current state of primary care access and quality within this specific geographic area and the broader Philadelphia landscape.

The health of a community is inextricably linked to the availability and quality of primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the entry point to the healthcare system, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. A robust primary care infrastructure is crucial for improving overall health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

One of the most critical indicators of primary care access is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Within the 19144 ZIP code, and across Philadelphia as a whole, the physician-to-patient ratio warrants careful scrutiny. Data from various sources, including the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and local healthcare networks, should be analyzed to determine the precise ratio. This analysis must account for factors such as the number of actively practicing PCPs, the size of the population served, and the distribution of physicians across different areas within the city. Areas with a significantly higher patient load per physician may experience greater challenges in providing timely and accessible care.

Philadelphia, as a major metropolitan area, faces unique challenges in primary care distribution. While some areas may have a sufficient number of PCPs, others, including potentially parts of 19144, might experience shortages. This disparity can be exacerbated by factors such as socioeconomic status, insurance coverage, and transportation access.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices is crucial for understanding the quality of care available. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria, including patient satisfaction scores, the use of evidence-based medicine, the adoption of technology, and the provision of comprehensive services. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize innovative approaches, and achieve positive health outcomes should be recognized and highlighted.

Within the 19144 ZIP code, and throughout Philadelphia, examples of practices that have achieved excellence should be identified. These practices may have implemented patient-friendly appointment scheduling systems, integrated electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, or developed specialized programs for managing chronic diseases. Furthermore, practices that actively engage in community outreach and health education initiatives should be considered exemplary.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in expanding access to healthcare, particularly in underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine technologies, such as video consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can help overcome geographical barriers, reduce wait times, and improve patient convenience.

An assessment of telemedicine adoption within the 19144 ZIP code and across Philadelphia should consider the extent to which practices offer telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and the patient population served. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflows, making it a seamless and accessible option for patients, should be commended. Furthermore, the analysis should evaluate the impact of telemedicine on patient outcomes, satisfaction, and healthcare utilization.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall health, and access to mental health services is crucial for addressing the growing burden of mental illness. Primary care physicians play a critical role in identifying and managing mental health conditions, often serving as the first point of contact for patients seeking mental health care.

The analysis should evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the 19144 ZIP code and throughout Philadelphia. This includes assessing the number of mental health professionals, the availability of mental health services within primary care practices, and the ease with which patients can access specialized mental health care. Practices that have integrated mental health services into their primary care model, such as offering on-site counseling or collaborating with mental health specialists, should be considered models of best practice. Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of culturally competent mental health services, catering to the diverse needs of the population.

**Overall Health Score:**

Based on the analysis of these factors, an overall health score can be assigned to the 19144 ZIP code and the broader Philadelphia primary care landscape. This score should reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system, providing a comprehensive assessment of access, quality, and equity.

The overall health score should be based on a weighted average of the individual factors, with each factor assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The score should be presented in a clear and concise manner, using a scale that is easy to understand. The score should be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology used, the data sources consulted, and the key findings.

The overall health score should be used to inform decision-making and guide efforts to improve primary care access and quality. It can be used by policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations to identify areas for improvement, allocate resources effectively, and develop targeted interventions.

By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care system, stakeholders can work collaboratively to create a healthier community for all. This includes initiatives to increase the number of PCPs, improve access to mental health services, promote the adoption of telemedicine, and support innovative practices that are committed to patient-centered care.

For a visual representation of the primary care landscape in Philadelphia, including the 19144 ZIP code, and to explore the data in an interactive map, we encourage you to visit CartoChrome maps.