06757, Kent, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06757, Kent, Connecticut is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.22 percent of the residents in 06757 has some form of health insurance. 35.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.51 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 06757 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 249 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06757. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 510 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 538 health care providers accessible to residents in 06757, Kent, Connecticut.

The analysis that follows examines the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 06757 and the broader primary care accessibility in Kent, Connecticut, focusing on key factors influencing patient outcomes. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive breast cancer support. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment, enabling informed decisions regarding care and highlighting areas for potential improvement.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. In ZIP code 06757, which encompasses the town of Watertown, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating a greater number of physicians per capita, generally suggests easier access to preventative screenings, timely diagnoses, and ongoing management. Conversely, a lower ratio may indicate potential challenges in securing appointments, leading to delays in care and potentially poorer outcomes, especially for those at higher risk for breast cancer. The availability of specialized oncologists and surgeons within the area further contributes to the overall quality of care. Assessing the specific numbers, while not readily available in a generalized analysis, is essential for understanding the true burden on existing resources. This includes the availability of radiologists for mammograms and other diagnostic imaging services.

Standout practices are those that consistently demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. These practices often have a multidisciplinary approach, integrating medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff like nurses and social workers. They may also participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities. Identifying these practices requires a detailed review of patient outcomes, patient satisfaction surveys, and adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer treatment. Factors like the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), can also distinguish high-performing practices. Furthermore, practices that prioritize patient education and provide comprehensive support services, including genetic counseling and survivorship programs, are often considered leaders in the field.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural or underserved areas. In the context of breast cancer care, telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The adoption of telemedicine platforms by practices within 06757 and the surrounding areas is a key factor in assessing access to care. This includes the availability of virtual consultations for discussing treatment plans, managing side effects, and providing emotional support. The ease of use of these platforms, the security of patient data, and the integration with existing electronic health records are all critical considerations. The ability to access these services from home can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel, especially for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers, is crucial for providing support and addressing these needs. This includes access to individual therapy, group support sessions, and medication management. The integration of mental health services into the cancer care continuum is a hallmark of high-quality care. Practices that proactively screen patients for mental health concerns and offer readily available resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The presence of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients can also provide a valuable sense of community and shared experience.

Primary care availability in Kent, Connecticut, is another vital aspect of the healthcare landscape. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, screening recommendations, and referrals to specialists. The availability of primary care physicians in Kent, and the surrounding areas, directly impacts the early detection of breast cancer. A robust primary care network ensures that women have access to regular mammograms and other screenings, leading to earlier detection and improved survival rates. The proximity of primary care practices to residents of Kent, and the ease of scheduling appointments, are crucial factors. The availability of after-hours care and urgent care services also contributes to the overall accessibility of primary care.

In conclusion, the quality of breast cancer care in ZIP code 06757 and the surrounding areas is a multifaceted issue, influenced by physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. While this analysis provides a general overview, a comprehensive assessment requires a deeper dive into specific data points and practice-level details. The availability of primary care in Kent is also a critical factor in early detection and overall patient outcomes. To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape, including the geographic distribution of providers and resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps.