19120, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 19120, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.09 percent of the residents in 19120 has some form of health insurance. 57.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.87 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 19120 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 23,261 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19120. An estimate of 108 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,873 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 105,666 health care providers accessible to residents in 19120, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Philadelphia (ZIP Code 19120) and Primary Care Landscape

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care and primary care accessibility within Philadelphia, specifically focusing on ZIP code 19120. It assesses the availability and quality of care, considering factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state, offering insights for both patients and healthcare providers.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. ZIP code 19120, encompassing areas like Olney and Feltonville, presents a unique demographic profile, influencing healthcare needs. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio reflects the potential for timely access to care. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and initial diagnoses. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios are dynamic and difficult to ascertain definitively, publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates. These estimates, however, must be interpreted carefully, considering factors like physician specialization and the influx of patients from outside the immediate ZIP code.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Evaluating “standout practices” necessitates considering several criteria. These include the practice's commitment to preventative care, particularly prostate cancer screening guidelines, such as the American Cancer Society recommendations. Practices demonstrating a proactive approach, offering regular PSA (prostate-specific antigen) tests and digital rectal exams (DREs) to eligible men, are more likely to detect cancer at earlier, more treatable stages. Furthermore, the practice's integration of electronic health records (EHRs) plays a significant role. EHRs facilitate better coordination of care, allowing for seamless communication between primary care physicians, urologists, and other specialists. This integrated approach is crucial for managing the complexities of prostate cancer treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth services, offering a valuable alternative for consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring. In ZIP code 19120, the availability of telehealth services from primary care practices and urology specialists can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, are positioned to provide more convenient and accessible care. The quality of the telehealth experience, including the availability of secure platforms and the physician's ability to effectively communicate virtually, is also a key consideration.

The mental health component of prostate cancer care is often overlooked, yet it is vitally important. A cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment, can have a profound impact on a patient's mental well-being. Primary care practices that integrate mental health resources, such as on-site counselors or partnerships with mental health professionals, are better equipped to support patients through the emotional challenges of their illness. This integration can take various forms, from offering routine screenings for depression and anxiety to providing referrals to mental health specialists. The availability of these resources can significantly improve a patient's quality of life and their ability to cope with the physical and emotional demands of cancer treatment.

The assessment of primary care availability in Philadelphia, and specifically within ZIP code 19120, must also account for socioeconomic factors. Disparities in healthcare access often exist, with underserved communities facing greater challenges in obtaining timely and quality care. These challenges can include a lack of insurance, transportation difficulties, and language barriers. Practices located in or serving these communities may face additional hurdles, but they can also play a vital role in addressing these disparities. Initiatives to improve access, such as offering free or low-cost screenings, providing transportation assistance, and employing multilingual staff, are crucial in ensuring equitable care for all patients.

The evaluation of prostate cancer care extends beyond primary care. The availability of specialized urology services, including access to experienced urologists and advanced treatment options, is essential. The presence of reputable urology practices in and around ZIP code 19120, offering a range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy, is crucial for comprehensive care. Furthermore, the integration of these specialists with primary care physicians is vital for seamless care coordination. Regular communication and collaboration between primary care physicians and urologists ensure that patients receive the most appropriate and timely care.

In summary, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP code 19120 and the surrounding Philadelphia area is a complex assessment. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices that prioritize preventative care and offer integrated services, assessing the adoption of telemedicine, and examining the integration of mental health resources. It also requires acknowledging and addressing socioeconomic factors that can impact access to care. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is essential for improving prostate cancer outcomes and ensuring that all patients receive the care they need.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your area, including physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps.