06237, Columbia, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06237, Columbia, Connecticut is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.07 percent of the residents in 06237 has some form of health insurance. 37.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.97 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 06237 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 777 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06237. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,207 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 299 health care providers accessible to residents in 06237, Columbia, Connecticut.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Columbia, CT (ZIP Code 06237)

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of breast cancer-related care within the ZIP code 06237 (Columbia, CT), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility and the overall healthcare landscape. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and support for individuals navigating this disease.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care begins with accessible and proactive primary care. In Columbia, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A lower ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can potentially strain resources and limit appointment availability. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Researching and understanding the specific PCP-to-patient ratio within 06237 is paramount. This involves examining publicly available data from sources like the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the Health Resources & Services Administration. This data needs to be current and accurate to provide a reliable picture.

Beyond simple ratios, the type of primary care practices and their operational structures are essential. Are there large, multi-specialty practices with integrated services, or are the options primarily smaller, independent practices? Larger practices often have the infrastructure to offer a broader range of services, including on-site mammography scheduling, patient navigation, and potentially, access to clinical trials. Independent practices may offer more personalized care, but potentially lack the same level of resources.

The "Breast Cancer Score" must also consider the availability of specialized care. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the proximity and accessibility of specialists, such as oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons, are critical. The distance and ease of travel to these specialists from Columbia significantly influence the overall score. Are there readily available specialists within the immediate region (e.g., nearby towns like Willimantic or Hartford)? This impacts the time it takes to receive a diagnosis and begin treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in today’s healthcare environment. The "Breast Cancer Score" needs to assess the extent to which primary care practices in 06237 offer telemedicine services. Telemedicine can enhance access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and mental health support. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to provide more flexible and convenient care options, especially for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

Mental health support is an integral part of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be incredibly stressful, and access to mental health resources is essential. The analysis must investigate the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices themselves, or through readily accessible referrals. Does the practice have on-site therapists or counselors? Do they have established relationships with local mental health professionals? The "Breast Cancer Score" should reflect the ease with which patients can access these vital support services.

Standout practices within 06237, if any, need to be identified. These are practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, potentially through innovative programs, high patient satisfaction scores, or a commitment to preventative care. Identifying these practices can help guide patients towards the best possible care options. This could involve researching patient reviews, seeking recommendations from local community groups, and examining practice websites for specific initiatives related to breast cancer screening and support.

To create a robust "Breast Cancer Score," the analysis should consider the specific breast cancer screening protocols followed by the primary care practices. Do they adhere to the latest guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network? Do they actively encourage regular mammograms and other screening methods? Practices that prioritize early detection through proactive screening protocols contribute positively to the overall score.

The analysis should also consider the availability of patient education resources. Do the primary care practices provide patients with informative materials about breast cancer, its risk factors, and treatment options? Do they offer support groups or connect patients with local advocacy organizations? Practices that prioritize patient education empower individuals to take an active role in their own healthcare.

Finally, the "Breast Cancer Score" should reflect the overall community support available to breast cancer patients. This includes the presence of local support groups, advocacy organizations, and community resources. The more robust the support network, the better the overall care environment for individuals affected by breast cancer.

This comprehensive analysis will provide a nuanced understanding of the breast cancer care landscape within Columbia, CT (06237). By considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice structures, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, specialist accessibility, and community support, a meaningful "Breast Cancer Score" can be generated. This score will inform residents about the quality and accessibility of care, and identify areas where improvements are needed.

Are you interested in visualizing the healthcare landscape of Columbia, CT, and beyond? Explore the power of spatial analysis and data visualization with CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, specialist availability, and community resources.