06374, Plainfield, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06374, Plainfield, Connecticut is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.78 percent of the residents in 06374 has some form of health insurance. 38.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.63 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 06374 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,716 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06374. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,280 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 650 health care providers accessible to residents in 06374, Plainfield, Connecticut.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Plainfield, CT (ZIP Code 06374)**

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within Plainfield, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06374), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This information is crucial for patients seeking comprehensive breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment support. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. In Plainfield, the availability of primary care physicians significantly impacts early detection and referral pathways. A high concentration of primary care providers generally translates to easier access for routine screenings and timely referrals to specialists. Conversely, a scarcity of primary care physicians can create barriers to care, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will consider the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 06374 ZIP code, comparing this to the local population to determine a physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio (more physicians per capita) generally indicates better access.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This analysis will assess the practices' adherence to established breast cancer screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the American Cancer Society. This includes the frequency with which physicians recommend mammograms, the age at which they initiate screening, and their approach to patients with increased risk factors (family history, genetic predispositions). Practices demonstrating a proactive approach to screening and risk assessment will be ranked higher.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool in modern healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption by primary care practices in Plainfield can significantly enhance access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Telemedicine consultations can facilitate initial screenings, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring. The analysis will evaluate the extent to which local primary care physicians utilize telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered remotely, and the accessibility of these services to patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and offer a range of virtual services will receive a higher score.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. This analysis will investigate the extent to which primary care practices in Plainfield integrate mental health services into their care models. This includes assessing whether practices offer on-site counseling, have established referral pathways to mental health specialists, or collaborate with mental health professionals to provide integrated care. Practices demonstrating a commitment to addressing the psychological needs of patients will be viewed favorably.

Standout practices within the 06374 ZIP code will be identified based on a combination of factors. These may include practices with a high physician-to-patient ratio, a demonstrated commitment to evidence-based screening guidelines, a robust telemedicine infrastructure, and a strong emphasis on mental health support. These practices will serve as benchmarks for quality and patient-centered care. Specific examples of standout practices will be cited, highlighting their unique strengths and contributions to the local healthcare landscape.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of physicians, can create significant challenges for patients. This analysis will quantify the physician-to-patient ratio within the 06374 ZIP code, comparing it to regional and national averages. The findings will reveal whether Plainfield has sufficient primary care resources to meet the needs of its population. Strategies to address any identified shortages, such as physician recruitment initiatives or the expansion of telehealth services, will be considered.

The analysis will also consider the demographics of the patient population in Plainfield. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and race/ethnicity can influence access to care and health outcomes. The analysis will assess whether primary care practices are adequately equipped to address the specific needs of diverse patient populations, including providing culturally sensitive care and overcoming language barriers. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to health equity will be recognized.

The assessment of telemedicine adoption will go beyond simply identifying practices that offer virtual services. It will also evaluate the ease of access to these services, including the availability of technical support, the user-friendliness of the platforms, and the cost of virtual consultations. Practices that have prioritized patient convenience and affordability in their telemedicine offerings will be ranked higher.

Mental health integration will be evaluated not only in terms of the availability of services but also in terms of the integration of mental health professionals into the care team. Practices that have established collaborative relationships between primary care physicians and mental health specialists, allowing for seamless referrals and coordinated care, will receive a higher score. This integrated approach is crucial for ensuring that patients receive comprehensive support throughout their breast cancer journey.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for primary care availability in Plainfield, CT (ZIP Code 06374) will be determined by a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, adherence to screening guidelines, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis will highlight strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare ecosystem, providing valuable insights for patients seeking quality breast cancer care. The findings will inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.

To visualize and understand the spatial distribution of healthcare resources in Plainfield and beyond, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can help you identify healthcare providers, assess access to care, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.