06042, Manchester, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06042, Manchester, Connecticut is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.25 percent of the residents in 06042 has some form of health insurance. 31.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.95 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 06042 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,479 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06042. An estimate of 15 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,516 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,562 health care providers accessible to residents in 06042, Manchester, Connecticut.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Manchester, CT (ZIP Code 06042)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care within Manchester, CT (ZIP Code 06042), focusing on physician availability, healthcare resource accessibility, and the overall quality of care. It aims to assess the current landscape and identify areas of strength and potential improvement, culminating in a call to action for utilizing advanced mapping tools.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in readily accessible primary care. Manchester, with its population of approximately 30,000 residents, needs a robust primary care network to ensure early detection and timely referrals. Assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) per capita. The national standard suggests a PCP-to-patient ratio that varies, but a ratio of 1:1500 is often considered a benchmark. A higher ratio might indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care.

The availability of primary care physicians is not the only factor. The distribution of these physicians across the ZIP code is crucial. Are there underserved areas within Manchester? Analyzing the geographic distribution helps determine if all residents have equal access to primary care services. This includes considering the presence of practices in different neighborhoods, the availability of public transportation to reach these practices, and the ability of practices to accommodate diverse patient needs, including those with disabilities or language barriers.

Once a patient receives a referral, the speed and efficiency of the referral process are critical. This includes the time it takes to schedule an appointment with a specialist, such as a breast surgeon or oncologist. Efficient referral systems are often facilitated by strong communication between primary care physicians and specialists, including the use of electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for seamless information sharing.

Physician-to-patient ratios for specialists, specifically breast surgeons and oncologists, are another key metric. Ideally, Manchester should have a sufficient number of specialists to meet the needs of its population. A shortage of specialists can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, which can negatively impact patient outcomes. Publicly available data from the Connecticut Department of Public Health and professional medical organizations can provide insight into the number of specialists practicing within the area.

Beyond physician availability, the quality of care is significantly influenced by the resources available within the community. This includes the presence of advanced imaging technology, such as mammography, ultrasound, and MRI machines. Access to these technologies is essential for accurate and timely diagnosis. The availability of these resources within the local hospitals and imaging centers is critical.

Manchester Memorial Hospital, the primary hospital serving the area, plays a central role in breast cancer care. Its capabilities in terms of diagnostic imaging, surgical procedures, and chemotherapy treatments are crucial. The hospital’s accreditation status, particularly its accreditation by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer, can indicate its commitment to providing high-quality cancer care.

Standout practices within Manchester can be identified by their commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. These practices often employ a multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration between primary care physicians, surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals. They may also offer specialized services, such as genetic counseling, support groups, and access to clinical trials. Identifying these practices requires reviewing patient testimonials, professional recommendations, and publicly available data on quality metrics.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even deliver some forms of therapy can improve access to care, especially for patients who have mobility issues or live in remote areas. The extent to which practices in Manchester have embraced telemedicine is a key indicator of their adaptability and commitment to patient convenience.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in breast cancer care, yet they are crucial for patient well-being. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the community or integrated into the cancer care team is essential. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also provide valuable emotional support and a sense of community.

The integration of these resources into a comprehensive care plan is essential. This includes care coordination, where a dedicated professional helps patients navigate the healthcare system, schedule appointments, and manage their treatment plan. Care coordination can improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on patients and their families.

In conclusion, assessing breast cancer care in Manchester, CT (ZIP Code 06042) involves evaluating physician availability, resource accessibility, and the integration of comprehensive services. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating mental health resources are crucial steps. This analysis provides a foundation for understanding the current landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics, consider utilizing advanced mapping tools. CartoChrome maps offers powerful visualization capabilities that can help you analyze this data and make informed decisions about healthcare planning and access. **Visit CartoChrome maps today to explore the data and visualize the landscape of breast cancer care in Manchester, CT (ZIP Code 06042).**