19140, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 19140, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.60 percent of the residents in 19140 has some form of health insurance. 66.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 30.48 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 19140 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14,144 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19140. An estimate of 90 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 8,427 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 96,896 health care providers accessible to residents in 19140, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Philadelphia (19140) & Primary Care Landscape

The landscape of breast cancer care within Philadelphia's 19140 ZIP code, and the broader context of primary care availability, presents a complex picture. A "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, while inherently simplified, allows us to evaluate key factors impacting patient outcomes, from access to care to the integration of supportive services. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. We aim to provide a nuanced understanding, acknowledging the limitations of generalizing across a diverse population.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical starting point. In the 19140 ZIP code, which encompasses portions of South Philadelphia, the concentration of primary care physicians and specialists, including oncologists and breast surgeons, is a significant determinant of access. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to shorter wait times for appointments and easier access to preventative screenings like mammograms. However, simply looking at numbers doesn’t tell the whole story. The distribution of these physicians, whether they accept various insurance plans (especially those common in the area), and their individual patient loads all play a vital role. Areas with a lower ratio may experience longer wait times and potentially delayed diagnoses, impacting treatment outcomes. This necessitates a deeper dive into the specific practices and their capacity.

Standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in breast cancer care, can significantly influence the overall score. These practices often have multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurses specializing in breast cancer care. They may offer advanced diagnostic tools like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), genetic counseling, and access to clinical trials. Furthermore, a practice's commitment to patient education and support services, such as support groups and survivorship programs, significantly elevates its standing. Evaluating these practices involves assessing their accreditations (e.g., National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers), patient satisfaction scores, and outcomes data, such as survival rates. The presence of such centers of excellence within or easily accessible to the 19140 area is a positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in the Breast Cancer Score. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups, can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in underserved areas. Its impact is especially pronounced in the context of breast cancer, where follow-up appointments, medication management, and psychological support can be effectively delivered remotely. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations for both new and existing patients, demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and increased accessibility. Conversely, a lack of telemedicine options could negatively affect the score, particularly for patients facing geographical or logistical barriers.

The availability of mental health resources is an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The presence of integrated mental health services within primary care practices and oncology centers is a strong positive indicator. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who specialize in cancer-related emotional distress. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, also play a vital role in providing emotional support and fostering a sense of community. The integration of these services into the overall care plan significantly improves the patient experience and can positively impact treatment adherence and overall well-being.

Primary care availability in the broader Philadelphia area, while not directly within the 19140 ZIP code, is inextricably linked to breast cancer outcomes. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients, and they play a crucial role in screening and early detection. The availability of primary care physicians, their capacity to perform breast cancer screenings, and their referral patterns to specialists all influence the overall Breast Cancer Score. A robust primary care infrastructure, with adequate physician-to-patient ratios and a commitment to preventative care, is essential for improving early detection rates and ensuring timely access to specialized care. This broader context is therefore crucial for understanding the overall landscape.

The 19140 ZIP code, like any area, likely faces specific challenges. These could include disparities in access to care based on socioeconomic factors, language barriers, or cultural differences. The Breast Cancer Score needs to consider these factors to avoid a simplistic assessment. Addressing these disparities requires targeted interventions, such as outreach programs, culturally sensitive care, and financial assistance for patients who struggle with the costs of treatment. Furthermore, the score should reflect the community's efforts to address these challenges.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for the 19140 ZIP code and its surrounding Philadelphia area is a multifaceted assessment. It depends on a complex interplay of factors, from physician-to-patient ratios and the presence of standout practices to telemedicine adoption and the availability of mental health resources. While this analysis offers a general overview, a deeper understanding requires a granular examination of specific practices, their services, and their commitment to patient-centered care.

**Ready to explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and gain a deeper understanding of the breast cancer landscape in Philadelphia? Use CartoChrome maps to visualize physician locations, practice specializations, and access to care. Explore the data and gain insights to support better healthcare decisions. Click here to see CartoChrome's maps.**