19146, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 19146, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.49 percent of the residents in 19146 has some form of health insurance. 27.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.08 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 19146 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,479 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19146. An estimate of 87 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,810 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 93,849 health care providers accessible to residents in 19146, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Prostate Cancer Score: A Philadelphia Perspective (ZIP Code 19146 & Primary Care)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within Philadelphia, specifically focusing on ZIP code 19146 and the broader primary care availability, requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider factors ranging from physician accessibility and diagnostic capabilities to the availability of supportive services like mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced "Prostate Cancer Score," reflecting the quality and accessibility of care within this critical area.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management hinges on robust primary care. In Philadelphia, and particularly within the 19146 ZIP code, primary care physicians (PCPs) act as the initial point of contact, crucial for early detection and referral. Assessing the "Prostate Cancer Score" necessitates evaluating the PCP-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed screenings, and potentially, late-stage diagnoses. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and local healthcare networks provide valuable insights. These sources reveal areas of potential strain, highlighting the need for strategic resource allocation and improved access.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The "Prostate Cancer Score" must consider the PCPs' experience and training in prostate cancer screening and risk assessment. Are they actively recommending prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams (DREs) for appropriate patients? Do they possess the knowledge to interpret results accurately and refer patients to urologists when necessary? Evaluating these aspects requires examining the practices' protocols, physician certifications, and patient testimonials.

Within ZIP code 19146, identifying standout primary care practices is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to proactive screening, patient education, and seamless referrals. They may offer extended hours, multilingual services, or specialized programs for men's health. Researching these practices involves examining online reviews, consulting with local healthcare advocacy groups, and analyzing data on patient outcomes. For example, practices affiliated with major Philadelphia hospitals, such as those within the University of Pennsylvania Health System or Jefferson Health, often benefit from access to advanced diagnostic tools and specialized expertise.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in enhancing access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The "Prostate Cancer Score" should assess the availability of telehealth services within primary care practices and urology specialists. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, streamlining the care process and reducing the burden on patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, offering secure video conferencing and remote patient monitoring, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care.

The diagnostic capabilities available within the 19146 ZIP code are another crucial component of the "Prostate Cancer Score." Access to advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans, is essential for accurate diagnosis and staging of prostate cancer. The presence of these technologies within local hospitals and specialized clinics significantly impacts the overall score. Furthermore, the availability of biopsy services and pathology expertise contributes to the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment planning.

Beyond the purely medical aspects, the "Prostate Cancer Score" must consider the availability of supportive services, particularly mental health resources. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is crucial for patients' overall well-being. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care models, providing referrals to therapists and support groups, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care.

The treatment landscape for prostate cancer within Philadelphia is diverse, offering various options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. The "Prostate Cancer Score" should evaluate the availability of these treatment modalities within the 19146 ZIP code. Proximity to specialized cancer centers, such as those within the Fox Chase Cancer Center or the Abramson Cancer Center, is a significant advantage, providing access to leading-edge treatments and clinical trials.

The quality of care extends beyond the technical aspects of treatment. Patient education and shared decision-making are critical elements. The "Prostate Cancer Score" must assess the extent to which physicians involve patients in treatment decisions, providing clear and understandable information about their options, risks, and benefits. Practices that prioritize patient education and empower patients to make informed choices contribute to a higher score.

Finally, the "Prostate Cancer Score" must consider the overall healthcare infrastructure in Philadelphia. Factors such as insurance coverage, access to affordable medications, and the presence of community health centers all influence the quality and accessibility of care. Addressing these systemic issues is crucial for improving the overall "Prostate Cancer Score" and ensuring that all residents have access to the care they need.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Prostate Cancer Score" for doctors in ZIP code 19146 and primary care availability in Philadelphia involves a comprehensive assessment of various factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, access to advanced diagnostics, and the availability of supportive services, including mental health resources. By considering these factors, we can gain a clearer understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the current system and identify areas for improvement.

Want to visualize the data and explore the healthcare landscape in Philadelphia in greater detail? Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, resource distribution, and access to care.