06278, Ashford, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06278, Ashford, Connecticut is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.02 percent of the residents in 06278 has some form of health insurance. 32.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.55 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 06278 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 904 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06278. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 582 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 418 health care providers accessible to residents in 06278, Ashford, Connecticut.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Ashford, CT (06278)

This analysis provides a preliminary assessment of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within the context of Ashford, Connecticut (ZIP code 06278), focusing on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources. The goal is to offer insights into the local healthcare landscape, highlighting potential strengths and areas needing improvement for individuals seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The assessment considers factors relevant to early detection, timely intervention, and overall patient well-being.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a crucial role in preventive screenings, risk assessment, and initial referrals. Ashford's primary care availability is a critical determinant of the overall breast cancer care score. Assessing this requires considering the physician-to-patient ratio within the community. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and follow-up care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility and the potential for more personalized attention.

Data on physician-to-patient ratios in Ashford, specifically for PCPs, is essential. Publicly available resources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the Connecticut Department of Public Health can provide valuable insights. This data, however, needs to be interpreted carefully. It's important to consider the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code. Even if the overall ratio appears favorable, a concentration of physicians in one area might leave other parts of Ashford underserved. Further, the availability of specialists, such as oncologists and radiologists, within a reasonable distance is vital.

Beyond physician numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly impacts breast cancer care. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive health education, and employ advanced screening technologies generally contribute to better outcomes. Identifying standout practices within Ashford requires evaluating factors like accreditation status, patient satisfaction scores (available through sources like the National Committee for Quality Assurance or online reviews), and the availability of on-site mammography or partnerships with nearby imaging centers. Practices actively promoting breast cancer awareness campaigns and offering culturally sensitive care are also indicators of a commitment to patient well-being.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element of the breast cancer care score. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments, discussing test results, and providing emotional support, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of primary care practices in Ashford involves examining their use of secure video conferencing platforms, online patient portals, and the availability of remote monitoring tools. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are better positioned to provide convenient and timely care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health support services, such as individual therapy, support groups, and access to psychiatrists, is a crucial factor in assessing the overall quality of care. Investigating the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, the availability of referrals to local therapists, and the presence of cancer support groups in the Ashford area are all relevant.

The integration of these factors – physician-to-patient ratios, quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – allows for a more nuanced understanding of the breast cancer care landscape in Ashford. A higher score would indicate greater accessibility, a commitment to preventative care, and a supportive environment for patients. Conversely, a lower score would highlight potential gaps in care and areas that require attention.

To improve the breast cancer care score, Ashford could focus on several key areas. Increasing the number of PCPs, particularly in underserved areas, is a priority. Encouraging primary care practices to adopt telemedicine technologies and expand their mental health support services would also be beneficial. Furthermore, promoting breast cancer awareness campaigns and providing education about early detection methods would empower individuals to take proactive steps toward their health.

This analysis serves as a starting point for understanding the breast cancer care landscape in Ashford, CT. It is essential to conduct a more in-depth investigation, incorporating specific data on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This detailed assessment will provide a more accurate and comprehensive picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Ashford, including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, and available resources, consider utilizing the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the data, helping you identify areas with high and low access to care. This visual tool can be invaluable for patients, healthcare providers, and community planners.