19131, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 19131, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.41 percent of the residents in 19131 has some form of health insurance. 46.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.75 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 19131 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,061 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19131. An estimate of 107 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,552 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 103,973 health care providers accessible to residents in 19131, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below examines breast cancer care within Philadelphia's 19131 ZIP code, focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources. It's a complex issue, requiring a nuanced approach beyond simple rankings. A true 'Breast Cancer Score' would integrate numerous factors, including access to screening, diagnostic capabilities, treatment options, and supportive care. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the landscape.

**Primary Care Landscape and Breast Cancer Screening in 19131**

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial initial step in breast cancer detection and management. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact, guiding patients through screening recommendations, such as mammograms, and providing referrals to specialists if necessary. In the 19131 ZIP code, which encompasses parts of West Philadelphia, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Historically, this area has faced challenges regarding healthcare access. The ratio reflects the number of patients each physician is responsible for, and a higher ratio can indicate increased wait times for appointments and potential strain on existing resources. This directly impacts early detection, as delays in screening can lead to later-stage diagnoses and poorer outcomes.

The 19131 area has a diverse population, and understanding the cultural and socioeconomic factors that influence healthcare access is essential. Language barriers, transportation limitations, and financial constraints can all impede timely screening and follow-up care. Practices that actively address these challenges, such as offering multilingual services, providing transportation assistance, or partnering with community organizations to offer financial aid, are likely to achieve higher scores.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying "standout practices" requires considering several elements. These include the availability of on-site mammography services, the use of patient navigators to guide individuals through the screening and diagnostic process, and the implementation of robust patient education programs. Practices that proactively reach out to patients to remind them about screening appointments, particularly those who may be at higher risk due to family history or other factors, demonstrate a commitment to preventative care.

Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) allows for improved care coordination. EHRs enable seamless sharing of patient information between PCPs, radiologists, oncologists, and other specialists. This integration helps to avoid duplication of tests, reduce errors, and facilitate more informed decision-making. Practices that have fully embraced EHR technology are likely to provide more efficient and coordinated care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Implications**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, and its adoption rate is a key indicator of a practice's responsiveness to patient needs. Telemedicine offers several benefits, including increased access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or transportation limitations. It also allows for virtual consultations, which can be particularly useful for discussing test results, providing follow-up care, and offering support. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, particularly for breast cancer screening follow-up and education, are likely to achieve a higher score.

However, it is important to note that telemedicine is not a perfect solution. It can be challenging to conduct physical examinations remotely, and some patients may prefer in-person consultations. Practices that offer a hybrid approach, combining in-person and virtual care, are likely to provide the most comprehensive and accessible services.

**Mental Health Resources and Supportive Care**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Access to mental health resources is essential for supporting patients throughout their journey. Practices that offer on-site counseling services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. These resources can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges.

Support groups and patient education programs are also crucial. These programs provide opportunities for patients to connect with others who have shared experiences, share information, and receive emotional support. Practices that actively promote and facilitate these resources are likely to achieve a higher score. The availability of palliative care services, which focus on symptom management and improving quality of life, is another important factor.

**Primary Care Availability Throughout Philadelphia**

The overall availability of primary care physicians in Philadelphia is a significant factor. The city, as a whole, has varying levels of access depending on the neighborhood. Areas with a higher concentration of PCPs generally provide better access to preventative care, including breast cancer screening. This is because PCPs can refer patients for mammograms and other diagnostic tests.

The distribution of specialists, such as radiologists and oncologists, is also important. Patients in areas with limited access to specialists may face longer wait times for appointments and treatment. The location of hospitals and cancer centers that offer comprehensive breast cancer care is another factor. Patients who live closer to these facilities have better access to treatment options.

**The Limitations of a Simple Score**

It is important to acknowledge the limitations of a simple scoring system. A "Breast Cancer Score" is a simplification of a complex reality. It cannot fully capture the nuances of individual patient experiences, the quality of care provided by individual physicians, or the impact of social determinants of health.

Factors like insurance coverage, cultural sensitivity, and patient preferences all play a role in determining the best care. A truly effective assessment would require a more comprehensive approach, integrating data from multiple sources and considering the unique needs of each patient.

**Conclusion: Visualizing the Landscape with CartoChrome Maps**

Understanding the complex landscape of breast cancer care in Philadelphia requires more than just a score. It demands a visual representation of the data. Mapping tools, such as those offered by CartoChrome, can provide valuable insights. CartoChrome maps can visualize physician-to-patient ratios, the location of healthcare facilities, and the distribution of resources. This allows for a more informed understanding of the challenges and opportunities in breast cancer care. Consider exploring CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 19131 ZIP code and throughout Philadelphia.