06475, Old Saybrook, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06475, Old Saybrook, Connecticut is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.67 percent of the residents in 06475 has some form of health insurance. 41.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.41 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 06475 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,734 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06475. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,842 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 685 health care providers accessible to residents in 06475, Old Saybrook, Connecticut.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Old Saybrook (06475)

This analysis provides a nuanced assessment of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within the 06475 ZIP code, encompassing Old Saybrook, Connecticut. The evaluation considers factors crucial to patient outcomes, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" that informs residents about the strengths and weaknesses of their local healthcare landscape, ultimately empowering them to make informed decisions about their care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in a robust primary care system. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a vital role in screening, early detection, and referral to specialists. Assessing primary care availability involves considering the number of PCPs practicing within the 06475 ZIP code and the surrounding areas, as well as the ease with which patients can schedule appointments. A high concentration of PCPs, coupled with readily available appointments, translates to a higher score. Conversely, a scarcity of PCPs or long wait times would negatively impact the score. In Old Saybrook, the analysis suggests a moderate level of primary care accessibility. While several practices are located within the town, appointment availability can fluctuate, particularly for new patients.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare access. A favorable ratio, meaning a higher number of physicians per capita, generally indicates a more accessible healthcare system. Determining this ratio requires analyzing the population of Old Saybrook (06475) and comparing it to the number of PCPs, oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons specializing in breast cancer care within the ZIP code and its immediate vicinity. The analysis reveals a reasonable physician-to-patient ratio for primary care, but the availability of specialized breast cancer care, such as oncologists and surgeons, may require patients to travel to nearby towns like New London or Middletown. This travel time, while not directly impacting the score, is a practical consideration for patients.

Identifying standout practices is a crucial component of the assessment. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria, including their commitment to preventative care, the utilization of evidence-based guidelines for screening and treatment, the availability of patient navigation services, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices with a strong focus on early detection, offering comprehensive screening programs, and actively participating in clinical trials would receive a higher score. While specific practice names are not provided in this analysis, the general observation is that several practices in the area demonstrate a commitment to high-quality care, with some offering advanced imaging technologies and patient-centered support services.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues, those living in rural areas, or those who prefer the convenience of virtual consultations. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves assessing whether local practices offer virtual appointments for routine check-ups, follow-up consultations, and even some aspects of cancer care. The analysis suggests a moderate level of telemedicine adoption in Old Saybrook. While some practices have embraced virtual appointments, others have been slower to integrate these technologies. The availability of telehealth options directly impacts the overall score, with practices offering robust telemedicine programs receiving a higher rating.

Mental health resources are a critical, often overlooked, component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services involves evaluating whether local practices offer on-site counseling, have referral partnerships with mental health professionals, or provide access to support groups. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients receive a higher score. The analysis indicates a need for greater integration of mental health services within the breast cancer care pathway in Old Saybrook. While some practices may offer limited support, a more comprehensive approach, including readily available counseling and support groups, would significantly enhance the overall score.

Synthesizing these factors, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Old Saybrook (06475) can be characterized as moderate. The community benefits from a reasonable physician-to-patient ratio for primary care and the presence of some practices dedicated to high-quality care. However, challenges remain in terms of specialized breast cancer care accessibility, the level of telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. Improving access to specialized services, expanding telemedicine options, and prioritizing mental health support would substantially enhance the score and improve the overall patient experience. The score is not a static measure; it can and should evolve as healthcare practices adapt to new technologies, evidence-based guidelines, and the changing needs of the community.

The analysis also considers the importance of patient education and empowerment. Patients who are well-informed about their options, the available resources, and the quality of care in their area are better equipped to advocate for themselves and make informed decisions. Access to clear, concise, and up-to-date information is therefore a critical component of a high-quality healthcare system. This analysis aims to provide that information, empowering residents of Old Saybrook to navigate the complexities of breast cancer care with greater confidence.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Old Saybrook and gain a visual understanding of physician locations, practice specializations, and resource availability, we encourage you to utilize the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to identify the healthcare providers best suited to your needs.