06365, Preston, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06365, Preston, Connecticut is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.42 percent of the residents in 06365 has some form of health insurance. 33.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.43 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 06365 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 981 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06365. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 895 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,853 health care providers accessible to residents in 06365, Preston, Connecticut.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Preston, CT (ZIP Code 06365)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within Preston, Connecticut (ZIP code 06365) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors influencing patient access, quality of care, and overall support systems. The goal is to provide a comprehensive ‘Breast Cancer Score’ assessment, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare environment. This analysis will focus on primary care physician availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of standout practices, and the availability of mental health resources.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) act as crucial gatekeepers to breast cancer screening and early detection. The availability of PCPs in Preston is a fundamental metric. A high PCP-to-patient ratio indicates potential access challenges. Residents might face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings like mammograms. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests easier access, allowing for proactive care and timely referrals to specialists. The analysis must consider the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, their patient panel sizes, and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments. This information helps gauge the ease with which residents can establish and maintain relationships with primary care providers.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical component of the score. National averages provide a benchmark. Comparing the local ratio to these averages reveals whether Preston residents have access to a sufficient number of physicians. A significantly lower ratio raises concerns about overburdened physicians, potentially impacting the quality and timeliness of care. This analysis should also consider the specialties of available physicians, including internal medicine, family medicine, and obstetrics/gynecology, all of which play a role in breast cancer detection and management.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These are medical facilities that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. This includes practices that offer comprehensive services, from screening and diagnosis to treatment and survivorship support. Key indicators include the availability of on-site mammography services, the presence of breast cancer specialists (surgeons, oncologists, radiation oncologists), and the utilization of advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis). Furthermore, practices that participate in clinical trials or offer patient navigation programs are highly valued. These programs assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, ensuring they receive timely and appropriate care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important. The ability to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely can significantly improve patient convenience and access, particularly for those living in rural areas or with mobility limitations. This analysis will evaluate the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine services for breast cancer-related care. This includes virtual consultations with PCPs, specialists, and even mental health professionals. The availability of remote monitoring tools, such as wearable devices that track vital signs, is also a positive indicator.

Mental health resources are integral to the Breast Cancer Score. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health support within the community is therefore crucial. This analysis will assess the presence of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer care. Partnerships between medical practices and mental health providers are highly beneficial, facilitating seamless referrals and integrated care. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, provides patients with valuable peer support and coping mechanisms.

The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable driving distance is also a significant factor. Such centers typically offer multidisciplinary care, bringing together specialists from various fields to provide coordinated treatment. The availability of these centers, and their proximity to Preston, influences the overall score. The center’s accreditation status, research activities, and patient outcomes are also important considerations.

The overall Breast Cancer Score will be a composite of these factors. Each component will be weighted based on its importance in providing high-quality, accessible breast cancer care. The final score will reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Preston, Connecticut, providing a valuable resource for residents and healthcare providers alike. This score is not simply a numerical rating; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to providing the best possible care for those affected by breast cancer.

This analysis will also take into account the socio-economic factors that can influence access to care. This includes the percentage of the population with health insurance, the availability of transportation to medical appointments, and the presence of community health programs that provide financial assistance or other support to patients.

The score will be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes new practices opening, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of new treatments or technologies. This ongoing monitoring ensures that the score remains a relevant and useful resource for the community.

This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the breast cancer care landscape in Preston, CT. By considering all these factors, the final score will offer a comprehensive evaluation of the resources available to residents. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for better care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Preston, including the location of medical practices, cancer centers, and support services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize the data and identify the resources that are most convenient for you.