06013, Burlington, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06013, Burlington, Connecticut is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.34 percent of the residents in 06013 has some form of health insurance. 21.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.74 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 06013 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,563 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06013. An estimate of 16 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,325 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,159 health care providers accessible to residents in 06013, Burlington, Connecticut.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Burlington, CT (ZIP Code 06013)**

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care access and quality within Burlington, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06013), focusing on primary care availability, physician resources, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem in relation to lung cancer patients. This analysis does not provide medical advice.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician Density**

A crucial starting point is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms that could indicate lung cancer. They are responsible for screening, early detection, and referral to specialists. In Burlington, the physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs is a critical indicator. Data from sources like the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into this ratio. A low ratio (fewer patients per physician) suggests better access, allowing for more thorough examinations and timely referrals. Conversely, a high ratio may indicate potential delays in accessing care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is important. Are practices concentrated in one area, or are they geographically dispersed to serve the entire community? This impacts travel time and accessibility, particularly for elderly or mobility-impaired patients, who are often at higher risk for lung cancer. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other community health clinics can be a positive factor, as these often serve underserved populations and may offer sliding-scale fees, enhancing access for lower-income individuals.

**Standout Practices and Specialist Networks**

Identifying standout primary care practices requires evaluating factors beyond just the number of physicians. Patient reviews, gathered from platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc, can offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall quality of care. Practices that consistently receive high ratings, particularly those mentioning proactive screening, clear communication, and compassionate care, are likely to be valuable resources for patients.

The strength of referral networks is also critical. Do local PCPs have established relationships with pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons? The presence of strong, integrated networks can streamline the referral process, reducing delays in diagnosis and treatment. Proximity to hospitals with advanced lung cancer treatment capabilities, such as those offering radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical interventions, is also a significant advantage. The availability of specialized services, such as interventional pulmonology, which offers minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, can further enhance the quality of care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare, and its adoption rate in Burlington is a key factor. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. It can also facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational sessions. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, are better positioned to serve patients with lung cancer.

The availability of telemedicine for specialist consultations is particularly beneficial. If local PCPs can easily connect patients with pulmonologists or oncologists via telemedicine, it can expedite the diagnostic process and treatment planning. The accessibility of remote monitoring tools, such as devices that track vital signs or pulmonary function, can also improve patient management and early detection of complications.

**Mental Health Resources and Support**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on mental health. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical aspect of the care ecosystem. Does the local healthcare system offer access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, psychiatrists, and counselors?

The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is particularly beneficial. Co-location of mental health professionals can make it easier for patients to access support. Furthermore, the availability of support groups, both in-person and online, can provide a valuable sense of community and shared experience. Educational resources, such as information about coping strategies and stress management techniques, can also empower patients to manage their mental health.

**Specific Considerations for Burlington, CT**

Due to the limited scope of this analysis, specific data regarding Burlington, CT, is required to provide a truly comprehensive assessment. This would include:

* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** Detailed data on the number of PCPs and specialists within the 06013 ZIP code and the patient population.
* **Practice Characteristics:** Information on the size, specialties, and services offered by local practices.
* **Telemedicine Capabilities:** The extent to which local practices have adopted telemedicine technologies.
* **Mental Health Resources:** The availability of mental health professionals and support services in the area.
* **Hospital Affiliations:** The hospitals and cancer centers that local practices are affiliated with.

**Conclusion**

Assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for Burlington, CT, requires a multifaceted approach. Evaluating primary care availability, physician density, specialist networks, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources provides a holistic view of the healthcare landscape. While this analysis provides a framework, the actual score depends on the specific data available for the region.

**Call to Action**

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