19148, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 19148, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.41 percent of the residents in 19148 has some form of health insurance. 40.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.35 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 19148 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,187 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19148. An estimate of 86 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,555 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 90,891 health care providers accessible to residents in 19148, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Philadelphia (19148)

This analysis aims to assess the quality of breast cancer care available within ZIP code 19148 (Philadelphia) and its surrounding primary care landscape, focusing on key indicators of access, quality, and support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement. This score considers factors like physician availability, the integration of advanced technologies, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a patient's journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in the availability of skilled medical professionals. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio in 19148 is essential. While precise numbers fluctuate, the general trend reveals a need for more specialists, particularly oncologists and breast surgeons, in relation to the population. This shortage can lead to delayed appointments, increased wait times for diagnostic procedures, and potentially, a less timely start to treatment. This scarcity necessitates a careful examination of primary care physician (PCP) availability, as they often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or needing screenings.

Primary care availability in Philadelphia, and specifically in the 19148 area, is a critical factor. A robust primary care network is the cornerstone of early detection. PCPs are responsible for routine screenings, educating patients about risk factors, and making timely referrals to specialists. Access to affordable and readily available primary care significantly impacts the likelihood of early detection, which is a key factor in successful breast cancer treatment. The analysis must consider the distribution of primary care practices, their acceptance of various insurance plans, and their ability to accommodate diverse patient populations, including those with limited English proficiency.

Identifying standout practices in the 19148 area is crucial. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, employing innovative approaches to diagnosis and treatment. Factors to consider include the use of advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography, the implementation of multidisciplinary care teams involving surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and support staff, and the availability of patient navigators who can guide patients through the complex healthcare system. Furthermore, the practice’s commitment to clinical trials and research can be a strong indicator of its dedication to providing cutting-edge care.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical component of the "Breast Cancer Score." Telemedicine offers significant advantages, particularly for patients in underserved areas or those with mobility limitations. Virtual consultations can facilitate timely access to specialists, provide remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and offer convenient follow-up appointments. The analysis will assess the extent to which practices in 19148 have embraced telemedicine, the types of services offered virtually, and the accessibility of these services to patients with limited technological literacy or access to reliable internet.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are an essential element in breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can cause significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The "Breast Cancer Score" must evaluate the availability of mental health support services, such as individual therapy, support groups, and psychiatric care. The integration of mental health professionals into the care team, providing seamless access to counseling and support, is a hallmark of patient-centered care. The analysis will assess the availability of these resources, their accessibility (e.g., insurance coverage, location, and appointment availability), and the extent to which they are integrated into the overall treatment plan.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 19148 will also consider the availability of patient education materials and resources. Patients need access to clear, concise, and culturally sensitive information about breast cancer, treatment options, and support services. Practices that provide educational materials, host workshops, and offer patient navigators to guide individuals through the complexities of their diagnosis and treatment are highly valued. The analysis will assess the availability of these resources in multiple languages, catering to the diverse population of the area.

Moreover, the score must consider the affordability of care. The cost of breast cancer treatment can be substantial, including diagnostic tests, surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and medications. The analysis will evaluate the availability of financial assistance programs, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the practices’ commitment to helping patients navigate the financial aspects of their care. This includes providing information about payment plans, grants, and other resources to reduce the financial burden on patients.

The analysis will also evaluate the quality of communication between healthcare providers and patients. Clear and open communication is essential for building trust, ensuring patient understanding, and promoting adherence to treatment plans. The "Breast Cancer Score" will consider factors such as the availability of interpreters, the use of patient portals for accessing medical records and communicating with providers, and the practices’ commitment to shared decision-making.

The "Breast Cancer Score" will be a dynamic measure, reflecting the ongoing evolution of breast cancer care. Regular updates are necessary to account for changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and the availability of support services. The score should serve as a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, helping to identify areas of strength and areas that require improvement.

Finally, the compilation of this data can be enhanced by utilizing visual representations. To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of resources, the location of practices, and the accessibility of care, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can visually represent the "Breast Cancer Score" data, providing a powerful tool for identifying areas of need and visualizing the overall healthcare landscape in 19148 and beyond.