Description of Indicator
The total number of primary care physicians is reflected in this indicator. The County Health Rankings & Roadmaps describes primary care physicians as those providing clinical care.
Why is it Important?
Measuring the number of primary care physicians in a given area offers insight into a community’s access to care and enhances understanding of the impact of primary care on health. Patients who visit primary care physicians consistently position themselves for better long-term health and well-being. Tracking this dataset can also point to potential shortages and workforce development needs.
How is the region performing?
Overall, the number of primary care physicians in the three counties and statewide decreased from 2020 to 2021. In Luzerne County and Wayne County, there are fewer primary care physicians than there were in 2010. Wayne County’s decline of 17.4 percent is the most significant.
The number of primary care physicians increased in Lackawanna County and Pennsylvania between 2010 and 2021, with a notable increase of 10.6 percent in Lackawanna County.
