16116, Edinburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16116, Edinburg, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.30 percent of the residents in 16116 has some form of health insurance. 44.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.19 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 16116 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 479 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16116. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 742 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,168 health care providers accessible to residents in 16116, Edinburg, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Edinburg, PA (ZIP Code 16116)**

This analysis examines the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment within ZIP code 16116, focusing on primary care accessibility and physician characteristics. It considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a patient's journey through potential lung cancer diagnosis and care. This information is intended to provide an informed perspective, not medical advice.

Edinburg, Pennsylvania, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The geographic isolation, coupled with potential demographic factors, influences the healthcare landscape. Evaluating the resources available within this specific area is critical for understanding the patient experience and identifying areas for improvement.

**Primary Care Availability in Edinburg**

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Early detection is key, and primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Assessing the availability of PCPs in Edinburg involves considering the physician-to-patient ratio, the number of practicing PCPs, and their willingness to accept new patients. This data, while difficult to obtain with absolute precision, can be estimated through publicly available resources and healthcare databases. A lower physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access.

Beyond raw numbers, the type of primary care practices present matters. Are there solo practices, larger group practices, or affiliations with hospitals or health systems? Group practices often offer a broader range of services and potentially better coordination of care. Affiliations with larger healthcare systems can provide access to specialists, diagnostic tools, and cancer treatment centers.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Accessibility**

Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio within a specific ZIP code requires detailed data. However, we can make informed estimates. The national average physician-to-patient ratio can serve as a benchmark. If Edinburg falls significantly below the national average, it suggests a potential shortage of PCPs, potentially hindering access to timely care. Furthermore, factors like the age and health status of the local population can influence the demand for primary care services, necessitating careful consideration of these demographic variables.

Accessibility also encompasses factors beyond the raw number of physicians. The willingness of PCPs to accept new patients, the availability of evening or weekend appointments, and the proximity of practices to residential areas all contribute to accessibility. Transportation limitations, particularly for elderly or disabled individuals, can further exacerbate access challenges.

**Standout Practices and Physician Characteristics**

Identifying "standout practices" requires evaluating several factors. Practices with a strong focus on preventative care, including regular screenings and patient education, are highly valuable. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals can improve communication and coordination of care. Practices that offer comprehensive services, such as on-site lab testing or imaging, can streamline the diagnostic process.

Physician characteristics are equally important. The experience and expertise of PCPs, their commitment to continuing medical education, and their communication skills all contribute to the quality of care. Physicians who are knowledgeable about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and early detection strategies are particularly valuable. The practice’s reputation, patient reviews, and any awards or recognitions can also provide insights.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs in Edinburg can mitigate some of the challenges related to geographic isolation. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to care.

The types of telemedicine services offered are also important. Are physicians providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, or even remote specialist consultations? The availability of these services can improve care coordination and reduce delays in diagnosis and treatment. The integration of telemedicine into the practice workflow, including the use of secure platforms and patient education, is crucial for its effectiveness.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Significance**

A lung cancer diagnosis is often accompanied by significant emotional distress. The availability of mental health resources is therefore critical. PCPs should be able to identify and address the mental health needs of their patients. The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the primary care practice or within the local community is essential.

Access to mental health services should be readily available and affordable. This includes insurance coverage, the availability of sliding-scale fees, and the ability to schedule appointments promptly. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, including collaboration between PCPs and mental health professionals, is crucial for providing comprehensive care.

**Conclusion**

Assessing the healthcare landscape in Edinburg (ZIP Code 16116) requires a nuanced understanding of primary care availability, physician characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. While this analysis provides a general overview, more detailed data is necessary to fully evaluate the quality and accessibility of care. Understanding these factors is critical for improving patient outcomes and ensuring that residents have access to the resources they need.

For a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare access in Edinburg and surrounding areas, including interactive maps of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the data visualization tools offered by CartoChrome maps.