06401, Ansonia, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06401, Ansonia, Connecticut is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.13 percent of the residents in 06401 has some form of health insurance. 46.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.21 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 06401 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,813 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06401. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,569 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,007 health care providers accessible to residents in 06401, Ansonia, Connecticut.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Ansonia, CT (ZIP Code 06401)

Analyzing the availability of breast cancer care within Ansonia, Connecticut (ZIP code 06401) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors impacting access to care, including the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized breast cancer practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This is a snapshot assessment, not a definitive medical recommendation.

The foundation of good breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. In Ansonia, assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of PCPs practicing within the 06401 ZIP code and the surrounding areas easily accessible to residents. A lower physician-to-patient ratio indicates better access. However, merely counting physicians isn't enough. We need to consider appointment wait times, insurance acceptance, and the overall patient load each practice manages. A high patient load could potentially lead to shorter appointment times and less personalized care.

The presence of dedicated breast cancer specialists is crucial. This includes oncologists, surgeons, radiologists specializing in breast imaging, and radiation oncologists. Ideally, a comprehensive breast cancer center, or a network of specialists offering coordinated care, should be readily available. This would allow for seamless communication between specialists, ensuring a patient receives a unified treatment plan. The proximity of these specialists to Ansonia is a key consideration. Travel time and ease of access, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments, significantly impact the quality of life and adherence to treatment protocols.

Standout practices within the area should be identified. This requires researching practices that have a strong reputation for patient care, positive patient reviews, and a commitment to utilizing advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. Are these practices actively involved in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments? Do they have dedicated breast cancer navigators to guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment? Are they actively involved in community outreach and education programs?

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in the wake of the pandemic. The ability to conduct virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, discuss test results, and receive mental health support remotely can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in more rural areas. Evaluating the extent to which practices in the area offer telemedicine services, including the types of services offered and the ease of use of the platforms, is essential.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Assessing the availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, specifically tailored to breast cancer patients is crucial. Are these resources integrated into the care provided by the breast cancer specialists or primary care practices? Are they readily accessible and affordable?

The physician-to-patient ratio in Ansonia needs to be compared to both state and national averages. A significantly lower ratio than the average could indicate a shortage of physicians, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to care. Conversely, a higher ratio, while seemingly positive, could reflect a less-than-ideal distribution of physicians, with some areas underserved.

Assessing the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is also critical. These technologies can improve the accuracy of breast cancer detection, especially in women with dense breast tissue. The presence of these technologies within the local hospitals and imaging centers is a significant factor in the overall quality of care.

Furthermore, the availability of support services such as physical therapy, lymphedema treatment, and nutritional counseling can significantly impact a patient's recovery and quality of life. Evaluating the presence of these services within the local healthcare ecosystem is essential.

Insurance coverage is another critical factor. The acceptance of various insurance plans by the local practices and specialists directly impacts a patient's ability to access care. This includes understanding the nuances of different insurance plans, such as co-pays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses.

Finally, it's essential to consider the patient experience. This includes factors such as the friendliness and responsiveness of the staff, the clarity of communication from the medical professionals, and the overall comfort and accessibility of the healthcare facilities. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

This analysis provides a general overview. The specific details of each physician and practice are vital. To truly understand the landscape of breast cancer care in Ansonia, a deeper dive into the individual practices and specialists is required.

For a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ansonia, CT, and the surrounding areas, consider exploring the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome allows you to visualize physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data points, providing a comprehensive and dynamic view of healthcare access.