06108, East Hartford, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06108, East Hartford, Connecticut is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.46 percent of the residents in 06108 has some form of health insurance. 49.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.25 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 06108 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,220 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06108. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,483 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,129 health care providers accessible to residents in 06108, East Hartford, Connecticut.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: East Hartford (06108)

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of breast cancer-related care within the 06108 ZIP code, focusing on primary care access and the overall healthcare landscape in East Hartford, Connecticut. We aim to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," though the nature of such a score is complex and relies on various factors that are difficult to quantify precisely. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a patient's journey from screening to survivorship.

East Hartford, a suburban community east of the Connecticut River, presents a specific set of challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The population demographics, socioeconomic factors, and proximity to larger medical centers in Hartford influence the healthcare ecosystem. Our analysis will attempt to reflect these nuances.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Early detection through regular screenings is paramount. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within a reasonable distance and with manageable wait times is therefore critical. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. Unfortunately, precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios for individual ZIP codes are often difficult to obtain. Data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services can provide broader county-level or regional estimates. These estimates, however, need to be interpreted cautiously. Even if East Hartford appears to have a favorable ratio, the actual accessibility of those physicians is crucial. Factors like insurance acceptance, new patient availability, and office hours significantly impact access.

A thorough assessment would involve identifying all primary care practices within the 06108 ZIP code and its immediate vicinity. This includes not only the number of physicians but also the types of practices. Are they solo practitioners, group practices, or affiliated with larger hospital systems? Group practices, especially those connected to larger networks, often offer a broader range of services and resources, including access to specialists and integrated care models. Affiliations with hospitals like Hartford Hospital, located nearby, can be a significant advantage, facilitating seamless referrals to oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons.

Standout practices, those that demonstrate exceptional commitment to breast cancer care, deserve special recognition. Identifying these practices requires more than just counting physicians. We would need to evaluate their screening protocols, patient education materials, and the availability of support services. Do they offer mammography on-site or readily accessible? Do they actively promote screening guidelines and remind patients of their appointments? Do they have dedicated patient navigators who can guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment? Are they involved in community outreach programs to raise awareness about breast cancer?

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool in healthcare delivery, especially in recent years. Its adoption in East Hartford's primary care practices can significantly impact breast cancer care. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. This is particularly valuable for patients who may have mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or live in geographically underserved areas. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption requires examining the technology infrastructure, the availability of virtual appointments, and the training of physicians in telehealth practices.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can trigger a range of emotional responses, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial for supporting patients through their journey. The analysis must identify the availability of mental health services within the 06108 ZIP code and surrounding areas. This includes assessing the number of mental health providers, their specialties, and their acceptance of various insurance plans. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is ideal, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive and integrated care.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the presence of support groups and patient advocacy organizations. These groups offer invaluable emotional support, information, and resources for patients and their families. They can also play a vital role in raising awareness about breast cancer and advocating for improved access to care.

Finally, the overall "Breast Cancer Score" would be a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed above. It would reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of breast cancer-related care in East Hartford. The score would not be a single number but rather a nuanced evaluation, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the healthcare landscape.

The 06108 ZIP code, like any community, presents a complex healthcare environment. A comprehensive analysis requires detailed data collection, on-the-ground research, and a deep understanding of the local healthcare system. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the current state of breast cancer care in East Hartford, emphasizing the importance of accessible primary care, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the available resources and identify areas for improvement, ultimately contributing to better outcomes for breast cancer patients.

To visualize this data and explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources in East Hartford and beyond, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping tools that can help you analyze physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care.