16507, Erie, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16507, Erie, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.50 percent of the residents in 16507 has some form of health insurance. 51.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.36 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 16507 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,860 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16507. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,023 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,019 health care providers accessible to residents in 16507, Erie, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Erie, PA (ZIP Code 16507) and Primary Care Landscape

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians practicing within ZIP code 16507 in Erie, Pennsylvania, and evaluates the broader primary care landscape within the city, focusing on factors crucial to early detection and effective management of lung cancer. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all vital components of a comprehensive approach to patient care, particularly for those at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care hinges on accessible and proactive primary care. This begins with an adequate supply of primary care physicians (PCPs) relative to the population. A low physician-to-patient ratio can strain resources, leading to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnostic procedures. While specific, current physician-to-patient ratios for ZIP code 16507 are difficult to obtain definitively without proprietary data, publicly available information suggests that Erie, PA, generally faces a challenge in this area. This can translate to a less-than-ideal environment for timely preventative care, which is critical for early lung cancer detection.

The characteristics of individual primary care practices within 16507 significantly influence the quality of care provided. Practices that prioritize preventive screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, demonstrate a proactive approach. The availability of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as X-ray machines or access to rapid referral pathways for specialized pulmonology services, further enhances care. Practices that actively participate in patient education programs about smoking cessation and lung cancer risk factors are also highly valued. The presence of dedicated care coordinators who assist patients through the often-complex process of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care is another positive indicator.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists or for patients with mobility issues. Practices in 16507 that have embraced telemedicine platforms offer patients greater flexibility and convenience. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. This technology can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas or those with transportation challenges, ensuring they can access timely care.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be significant. The availability of mental health resources within primary care practices is a crucial component of holistic care. Practices that offer on-site counseling services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to addressing the psychological needs of their patients. This support can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges that may arise during their cancer journey.

Evaluating individual practices within 16507 requires a deeper dive into their specific offerings. Identifying standout practices involves assessing their commitment to these key areas. This includes reviewing their patient satisfaction scores, examining their adherence to evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment, and evaluating their integration of technology to enhance patient care. Some practices might stand out due to their proactive approach to patient education, their seamless integration of telemedicine, or their strong partnerships with local pulmonologists and oncologists.

The broader primary care landscape in Erie, and specifically in the 16507 ZIP code, likely reflects a mix of strengths and weaknesses. While some practices may be excelling in patient care, others might face challenges related to resource constraints, staffing shortages, or limited access to advanced technologies. The overall score for lung cancer care in this area is a composite of these factors. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, within the broader Erie community is also critical. A well-coordinated network of healthcare providers ensures that patients receive comprehensive and timely care.

The assessment of mental health resources within primary care practices in 16507 is another important factor. Practices that proactively address the psychological needs of their patients, either through on-site counseling or referral networks, are better positioned to provide holistic care. The ability to manage the emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is essential for patient well-being and treatment adherence.

The adoption of telemedicine technologies varies among practices. Some practices may have embraced virtual consultations and remote monitoring, while others may still be in the early stages of implementation. The level of telemedicine adoption can impact patient access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow can offer greater flexibility and convenience to their patients.

The Lung Cancer Score for 16507 and the surrounding Erie area is not a static metric. It is a dynamic assessment that reflects the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers to improve patient care. Factors such as changes in healthcare policies, advancements in medical technology, and evolving patient needs can all influence the score. Regular assessments and continuous quality improvement initiatives are essential to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the primary care landscape in Erie, PA, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.