06906, Stamford, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06906, Stamford, Connecticut is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.23 percent of the residents in 06906 has some form of health insurance. 37.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.51 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 06906 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,862 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06906. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,364 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,185 health care providers accessible to residents in 06906, Stamford, Connecticut.

Breast cancer awareness and early detection are paramount, especially within a defined geographical area. This analysis focuses on the quality of breast cancer care available to patients in Stamford, Connecticut, specifically within the 06906 ZIP code, and considers the broader context of primary care access. We will assess the landscape of healthcare providers, examining physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating the adoption of telemedicine, and exploring the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive breast cancer care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). These physicians serve as the first point of contact, guiding patients through screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. In Stamford, 06906, assessing primary care availability involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and less personalized care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access and potentially more comprehensive preventative care. Publicly available data from the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the U.S. Census Bureau can be utilized to estimate this ratio, providing a baseline understanding of access.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is vital. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including regular mammograms and patient education, are essential. Identifying these "standout practices" requires examining patient reviews, accreditation status, and the types of services offered. Does the practice offer on-site mammography services? Do they actively participate in breast cancer screening programs? Do they have a dedicated patient navigator to help guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment? These factors contribute to a practice’s overall score.

Specialized care, including access to oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is critical. Assessing the availability of these specialists in the 06906 ZIP code involves identifying the number of board-certified specialists practicing within the area and their affiliations with hospitals and cancer centers. The proximity of these specialists to patients is also an important consideration. Shorter travel times can reduce stress and improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, the reputation and expertise of these specialists, as reflected in peer reviews and patient outcomes data (where available), should be considered.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool for expanding healthcare access, especially for patients in geographically isolated areas or those with mobility limitations. Assessing telemedicine adoption in Stamford involves determining the number of practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. This can be evaluated by reviewing practice websites, contacting practices directly, and examining insurance coverage for telemedicine services. The availability of telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and mental health support.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. This analysis examines the presence of mental health professionals specializing in oncology, such as therapists and counselors, within the 06906 ZIP code. This includes assessing the number of therapists, their specialties, their insurance acceptance, and their proximity to the patient population. Furthermore, the availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is essential. Access to these resources can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of breast cancer.

Several practices in Stamford, Connecticut, stand out in their commitment to breast cancer care. Stamford Health, with its comprehensive cancer center, is a prominent provider. Their team of specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, offers a full spectrum of care. They also have a dedicated breast cancer program with patient navigators to guide patients through the process. Another practice to consider is the Women's Health Center of Stamford, which offers a range of services, including mammography and gynecological care. They are known for their patient-centered approach and focus on preventative care.

The adoption of telemedicine is growing in Stamford. Many practices now offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments and consultations. This can improve access for patients who have difficulty traveling or who prefer the convenience of virtual appointments. Telemedicine is also used for mental health support, providing patients with access to therapists and counselors remotely.

Mental health resources are available in Stamford, but access can be challenging. The Stamford Health Cancer Center offers support groups and individual counseling for patients. There are also several private practices that specialize in oncology-related mental health. However, the demand for these services can be high, and wait times may be a factor.

The availability of primary care physicians is generally good in Stamford, but there can be variations depending on the specific location and insurance coverage. Physician-to-patient ratios should be assessed to determine the level of access in the 06906 ZIP code.

In conclusion, assessing breast cancer care in Stamford, 06906, involves a multi-faceted evaluation. It requires examining physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the landscape of care and identifying areas for improvement. By providing a comprehensive overview of the available resources, patients can make informed decisions about their care.

To visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health resources, and to understand the geographical accessibility of these services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of the data discussed, helping patients and healthcare professionals make informed decisions about care.