06074, South Windsor, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06074, South Windsor, Connecticut is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.15 percent of the residents in 06074 has some form of health insurance. 24.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.57 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 06074 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,577 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06074. An estimate of 21 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,258 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,100 health care providers accessible to residents in 06074, South Windsor, Connecticut.

The analysis below provides a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 06074 ZIP code (South Windsor, Connecticut), focusing on factors relevant to early detection and management of lung cancer. This score is a hypothetical construct, incorporating various elements impacting patient access to care, quality of services, and overall health outcomes. The analysis also considers the broader context of primary care availability in South Windsor.

The foundation of a strong LCS lies in the accessibility of primary care. South Windsor, like many suburban areas, likely experiences fluctuations in PCP availability. Physician-to-patient ratios are crucial. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnostic procedures for lung cancer. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates better access, allowing for more proactive care. The LCS will be positively influenced by lower physician-to-patient ratios within the 06074 ZIP code. Publicly available data from sources like the Connecticut Department of Public Health or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) would be essential to determine the exact ratio.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care significantly impacts the LCS. The score will reward practices that actively implement evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, particularly for individuals at high risk (e.g., current or former smokers). This includes routinely discussing smoking cessation strategies, offering low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients, and promptly referring patients with suspicious findings to pulmonologists or oncologists. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for efficient patient data management and reminders for screenings, will also receive higher scores.

Standout practices within the 06074 ZIP code would demonstrate a commitment to these best practices. Identifying these practices requires research, including reviewing patient testimonials, online reviews, and potentially contacting local healthcare organizations. Practices known for proactive patient outreach, such as sending reminders for annual checkups and screening appointments, would contribute positively to the LCS. Furthermore, practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on improving lung cancer screening rates, would be highly regarded.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare access. The LCS will consider the availability of telemedicine services within the primary care practices in 06074. Practices offering virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, or even initial consultations can improve access, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in more remote areas of the town. Telemedicine can also facilitate easier communication between patients and their physicians, potentially leading to earlier detection of symptoms and improved adherence to treatment plans.

The mental health of patients is inextricably linked to their physical well-being, particularly for those facing a serious illness like lung cancer. The LCS will assess the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referral networks. Practices that have integrated behavioral health specialists into their team or have established strong referral pathways to mental health professionals will receive higher scores. Addressing the psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis, including anxiety, depression, and the emotional challenges of treatment, is vital for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Primary care availability in South Windsor extends beyond the immediate ZIP code. The LCS also considers the broader healthcare landscape. The presence of nearby hospitals, specialty clinics (e.g., pulmonology, oncology), and support groups for cancer patients will positively influence the score. Easy access to these resources is critical for timely diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care. A well-coordinated healthcare system, where primary care physicians can seamlessly refer patients to specialists and share information, will significantly enhance the LCS.

The LCS also acknowledges the importance of patient education and empowerment. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise information about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options will be favored. This includes offering educational materials, hosting patient seminars, or directing patients to reliable online resources. Empowering patients to actively participate in their healthcare decisions is essential for improving outcomes.

Finally, the LCS will consider the socioeconomic factors affecting health outcomes. South Windsor, while generally affluent, likely has pockets of underserved populations. The score will reflect the efforts of primary care practices to address health disparities and provide equitable access to care for all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic status. This might include offering language services, providing financial assistance for screenings, or partnering with community organizations to reach vulnerable populations.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for primary care in the 06074 ZIP code is a multifaceted assessment that considers access, quality of care, the use of technology, mental health resources, and the broader healthcare ecosystem. A high score reflects a commitment to early detection, comprehensive patient care, and a proactive approach to improving health outcomes. The availability of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the overall accessibility of specialty care are all critical components.

To visualize the distribution of primary care practices, access to specialists, and the availability of healthcare resources in South Windsor and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you understand the landscape of healthcare in your community.