06375, Quaker Hill, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06375, Quaker Hill, Connecticut is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.60 percent of the residents in 06375 has some form of health insurance. 30.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.72 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 06375 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 672 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06375. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 584 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,347 health care providers accessible to residents in 06375, Quaker Hill, Connecticut.

The assessment of breast cancer care within ZIP code 06375, encompassing Quaker Hill, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, specifically primary care physicians, as they often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or requiring preventative screenings. We will also examine the availability of specialized breast cancer care, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, along with the presence of supportive resources like mental health services and telemedicine options. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals in Quaker Hill and its surrounding area.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access to care. While precise, publicly available data on physician counts within a specific ZIP code can be challenging to obtain, we can leverage broader datasets and estimations. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services provides data on primary care physician shortages at the county level. Analyzing this data, coupled with information from state medical boards and online physician directories, allows for an estimation of the physician-to-patient ratio in New London County, where Quaker Hill is located. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can suggest potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and accessing ongoing care.

The availability of primary care physicians in Quaker Hill is paramount. These doctors are often the first line of defense, providing preventative screenings, such as mammograms, and referring patients to specialists when necessary. The density of primary care practices within the community, including the number of physicians per practice and the acceptance of new patients, significantly impacts access. We need to look at the types of practices, whether they are solo practices, group practices, or part of larger hospital systems, and how they handle patient volume.

Standout practices within the area deserve specific attention. These practices may demonstrate excellence in patient care, offer specialized services, or actively participate in community outreach programs. For example, practices that consistently achieve high patient satisfaction scores, have a strong track record of early detection of breast cancer, or offer comprehensive support services, such as patient navigators, are particularly noteworthy. Identifying these exemplary practices can provide valuable insights into best practices and serve as a benchmark for other healthcare providers.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those in rural areas. The availability of telehealth consultations for breast cancer screenings, follow-up appointments, and mental health support can significantly improve access to care. Practices that offer telemedicine options, especially those with secure video conferencing capabilities and patient portals for accessing medical records and test results, are better positioned to serve their patients effectively.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. The emotional toll of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be significant. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients, is crucial. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, can also provide valuable emotional support and a sense of community. Practices that integrate mental health services into their breast cancer care programs demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being.

The presence of specialized breast cancer care providers, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is critical for managing the disease. The proximity of these specialists to Quaker Hill is a significant factor in determining the accessibility of care. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography and MRI, can also impact the quality of diagnosis and treatment. The presence of a multidisciplinary team, including medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and breast radiologists, ensures that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care.

Examining the quality of care provided by these specialists is equally important. This involves assessing their experience, board certifications, and participation in continuing medical education. Practices that adhere to national guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment and participate in clinical trials demonstrate a commitment to providing evidence-based care.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, genetic counseling, and physical therapy, also contributes to the overall quality of care. Patient navigators can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, schedule appointments, and access financial assistance. Genetic counseling can help patients assess their risk of developing breast cancer and make informed decisions about screening and prevention. Physical therapy can help patients manage the side effects of treatment, such as lymphedema.

The impact of insurance coverage on access to care cannot be overlooked. The acceptance of various insurance plans by healthcare providers in the area, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, is a crucial factor in determining affordability and accessibility. The availability of financial assistance programs for patients who are uninsured or underinsured is also important.

Finally, community outreach programs and educational initiatives play a vital role in promoting breast cancer awareness and early detection. Practices that actively participate in community events, offer free screenings, and provide educational materials can help to improve patient outcomes.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Quaker Hill, including physician locations, practice types, and proximity to specialized care centers, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps provide an interactive and informative way to explore the data discussed above.