19123, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 19123, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.59 percent of the residents in 19123 has some form of health insurance. 25.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.65 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 19123 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,037 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19123. An estimate of 108 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,797 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 104,341 health care providers accessible to residents in 19123, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis explores prostate cancer care within ZIP Code 19123 and the broader context of primary care availability in Philadelphia, culminating in a Prostate Cancer Score (PCS) assessment. This score considers factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician access, practice quality, technological integration, and mental health support.

Philadelphia's healthcare landscape presents a complex picture, and 19123, encompassing areas like Germantown and East Mount Airy, reflects this complexity. Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment require a multi-faceted approach, and the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the initial gateway. The physician-to-patient ratio in Philadelphia, while varying across neighborhoods, often presents challenges. Areas with higher concentrations of underserved populations may experience shortages, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potential delays in early detection and intervention. This impacts the PCS negatively.

The availability of PCPs directly affects the early detection of prostate cancer. Regular check-ups and screenings are vital, especially for men over 50 or those with a family history. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, potentially allowing the cancer to progress to a more advanced stage, reducing the chances of successful treatment.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is critical. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including regular prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams, contribute positively to the PCS. Practices that integrate electronic health records (EHRs) and offer patient portals enhance communication and streamline care coordination. This improves the patient experience and facilitates better management of chronic conditions, including prostate cancer.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in modern healthcare. Its adoption, or lack thereof, significantly influences the PCS. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, improve accessibility and convenience, especially for patients with mobility issues or those residing far from the practice. Telemedicine also facilitates remote monitoring, allowing physicians to track patient progress and intervene promptly if needed.

Mental health is often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but it plays a crucial role in patient well-being. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or readily available referrals to therapists and support groups enhance the PCS. Integrated mental health support helps patients cope with the emotional toll of the disease, improving their overall quality of life and treatment adherence.

In evaluating specific practices within 19123, several factors come into play. The reputation of individual physicians, as reflected in patient reviews and professional accolades, is important. The practice's affiliation with larger healthcare systems or hospitals can indicate access to advanced diagnostic and treatment options. The availability of specialized services, such as urology and radiation oncology, within the practice or nearby, significantly impacts the PCS.

Standout practices in the area might be those that have embraced a patient-centered approach, offering comprehensive care, including preventative screenings, timely referrals, and integrated mental health support. They may also have a robust telemedicine presence, making it easier for patients to access care. These practices would contribute positively to the PCS.

The overall PCS for 19123 and Philadelphia is influenced by the interplay of these factors. The score would reflect the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate better access to care, higher quality practices, and more comprehensive support services.

Several challenges hinder the improvement of the PCS. These include physician shortages, particularly in underserved areas, and the need for greater integration of mental health services into primary care. The cost of healthcare and the complexity of navigating the healthcare system also pose barriers to access. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach, including increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and promoting mental health awareness and support.

The PCS is a dynamic measure that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. It can be used to identify areas for improvement and to guide efforts to enhance prostate cancer care. Regular assessment and updates are essential to ensure that the score accurately reflects the current state of care and that efforts are made to improve patient outcomes.

For a comprehensive visualization of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, and healthcare resources within ZIP Code 19123 and across Philadelphia, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a detailed, data-driven understanding of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify practices, assess access, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.