06039, Lakeville, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06039, Lakeville, Connecticut is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.74 percent of the residents in 06039 has some form of health insurance. 35.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.35 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 06039 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 356 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06039. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 467 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 91 health care providers accessible to residents in 06039, Lakeville, Connecticut.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 06039 & Primary Care Availability in Lakeville**

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 06039 (Lakeville, CT) focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, including primary care availability and the resources available to patients. We will explore physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of supporting early detection and comprehensive treatment of lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through screening, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, is crucial for improving survival rates. This, in turn, relies on a strong network of primary care physicians (PCPs) who can identify at-risk patients, order appropriate screenings, and facilitate timely referrals to specialists. Lakeville, CT, a relatively small community, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in this regard.

Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is a critical first step. A low ratio can indicate a shortage of available PCPs, potentially leading to delayed appointments and reduced access to preventative care. The national average physician-to-population ratio serves as a benchmark. Analyzing the number of PCPs practicing within 06039, compared to the population of Lakeville, will reveal whether the community is adequately served. This data is available through various sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau and state medical licensing boards.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating the quality of care delivered. This can be achieved by examining patient reviews, assessing the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment, and evaluating the practice's participation in quality improvement initiatives. Practices that actively promote preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening, deserve special recognition. Furthermore, clinics that have a dedicated nurse navigator program for cancer patients are also valuable.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility issues. Telehealth appointments can facilitate follow-up consultations, medication management, and even mental health support. Practices that offer telemedicine services, especially for lung cancer patients, are demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care. The ability to remotely monitor patients' health status and provide timely interventions can also significantly improve outcomes.

Mental health resources are integral to comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is therefore essential. Examining the proximity of mental health providers to PCP practices, and the existence of integrated behavioral health services, provides a more complete picture of the care available.

The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, is another important consideration. Support groups offer patients a safe space to share their experiences, receive emotional support, and learn coping strategies. The availability of these resources can significantly improve patients' quality of life and help them navigate the challenges of cancer treatment.

The analysis of lung cancer care within 06039 must consider the availability of specialized services, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to primary care practices is crucial for facilitating timely referrals and ensuring that patients receive the necessary expertise. The presence of a multidisciplinary cancer care team, involving physicians from various specialties, is a hallmark of high-quality cancer care.

Furthermore, access to clinical trials is a significant factor. Clinical trials offer patients access to innovative treatments and can potentially improve outcomes. The availability of clinical trials within the region, or the ease of access to trials in nearby medical centers, should be assessed.

The role of hospitals in the region is also critical. Hospitals provide the infrastructure for diagnostic testing, treatment, and inpatient care. Evaluating the quality of hospitals in the vicinity, including their accreditation status and patient satisfaction scores, is essential. Hospitals with specialized cancer centers, equipped with advanced technology and staffed by experienced professionals, can significantly improve patient outcomes.

The cost of care is another important consideration. The financial burden of cancer treatment can be significant, and access to affordable care is crucial. Examining the acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices and hospitals, and the availability of financial assistance programs, is essential.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the population served. Understanding the age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status of the residents of 06039 can help tailor healthcare services to meet their specific needs. For instance, certain ethnic groups may have a higher risk of lung cancer, and targeted screening programs may be beneficial.

The availability of public health resources, such as smoking cessation programs and educational materials about lung cancer, is also important. These resources can help prevent lung cancer and improve early detection.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of lung cancer care in 06039 requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, the availability of specialists, and the presence of support groups. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Lakeville, CT, and can inform efforts to improve access to care and improve patient outcomes.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources in 06039 and surrounding areas, including the location of PCPs, specialists, hospitals, and support services, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer an interactive platform to analyze geographic data and identify areas with high and low access to care.