06266, South Windham, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06266, South Windham, Connecticut is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.93 percent of the residents in 06266 has some form of health insurance. 37.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.88 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 06266 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 40 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06266. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 49 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 374 health care providers accessible to residents in 06266, South Windham, Connecticut.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: South Windham, CT (ZIP Code 06266)

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of breast cancer care within the South Windham, Connecticut (ZIP code 06266) area, focusing on primary care physicians (PCPs) and their contribution to early detection and supportive care. We’ll consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of a comprehensive breast cancer care ecosystem.

The foundation of effective breast cancer management lies in proactive screening and early diagnosis, often initiated through a patient's PCP. Therefore, the availability and accessibility of PCPs within a community are paramount. In South Windham, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. Data from state and national databases, including the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the US Department of Health & Human Services, provide insights into the number of active PCPs practicing within the 06266 ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments, shorter wait times, and potentially more thorough preventative care. Conversely, a higher ratio might indicate challenges in securing timely appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and follow-up care. This ratio is a dynamic number, influenced by factors such as physician retirements, relocation, and the influx of new residents.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is another important factor. This includes the implementation of evidence-based screening guidelines, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams, and the efficiency of referral processes to specialists like radiologists, oncologists, and surgeons. Identifying standout practices within the community is essential. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, adherence to national guidelines, and a commitment to patient education. These practices may have dedicated staff members focused on preventative care, including breast cancer screening reminders and patient navigation services. They might also participate in quality improvement initiatives, tracking their performance against benchmarks and continuously seeking to improve their services. Researching patient reviews, analyzing insurance provider networks, and consulting with local healthcare advocacy groups can help identify these high-performing practices.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Its adoption within the South Windham area, especially among PCPs, is a critical consideration. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their doctors remotely, potentially reducing the need for travel, especially for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, discussing test results, and providing mental health support. The availability of telemedicine can also improve access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves examining the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely (e.g., medication management, counseling), and the technological infrastructure in place to support these services.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but essential aspect of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the community, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial for providing comprehensive care. PCPs play a vital role in identifying patients who may be struggling with their mental health and referring them to appropriate resources. Assessing the availability of these resources involves examining the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services they offer (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance coverage, wait times). Partnerships between PCPs and mental health professionals can further enhance the quality of care.

The availability of specialized breast cancer care, such as access to breast surgeons, oncologists, and radiation oncologists, is also a critical factor. While PCPs are primarily responsible for screening and early detection, the expertise of specialists is essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. The proximity of these specialists, the availability of advanced diagnostic imaging (e.g., MRI, ultrasound), and the quality of treatment options are all important considerations. This involves assessing the presence of comprehensive cancer centers, the availability of clinical trials, and the overall quality of cancer care within the broader region.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that influence access to care. These factors include insurance coverage, income levels, and transportation options. Patients with limited financial resources or transportation challenges may face significant barriers to accessing timely screening and treatment. Addressing these disparities requires a multifaceted approach, including providing financial assistance, offering transportation services, and promoting culturally sensitive care.

In conclusion, a comprehensive breast cancer score for South Windham, CT (06266) requires a multi-faceted assessment. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, evaluating mental health resources, and understanding the availability of specialized care. It also necessitates considering socioeconomic factors that influence access to care. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the breast cancer care ecosystem within the community, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes and ensure equitable access to quality care.

For a visual representation of this data and a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources in South Windham, CT (06266), we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome's mapping tools can help visualize physician density, access to specialists, and the location of support services, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and community planners.