06106, Hartford, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06106, Hartford, Connecticut is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.70 percent of the residents in 06106 has some form of health insurance. 50.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.87 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 06106 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,621 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06106. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,575 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,080 health care providers accessible to residents in 06106, Hartford, Connecticut.

## Lung Cancer Score: Hartford, CT (ZIP Code 06106)

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within Hartford, CT's 06106 ZIP code necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis, framed as a "Lung Cancer Score," considers factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician availability, quality of care, and access to supportive resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem for individuals facing this challenging disease.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer treatment plan lies in the availability of qualified medical professionals. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. In 06106, a comprehensive assessment would start by determining the number of pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons actively practicing within the ZIP code. This data, ideally, would be compared to the estimated population size to calculate the physician-to-patient ratio for each specialty. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access to care, shorter wait times for appointments, and potentially, a greater ability for patients to find a physician whose approach aligns with their needs and preferences.

Furthermore, the quality of care is paramount. Evaluating this involves examining the credentials and experience of the physicians. Board certifications, years of practice, and affiliations with reputable hospitals and cancer centers are all indicators of expertise. Hospitals like Hartford Hospital, located nearby, and their associated specialists play a significant role in this assessment. Their track records in lung cancer treatment, including success rates, participation in clinical trials, and adherence to national guidelines (such as those from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network - NCCN), are crucial data points. Publicly available information, such as patient reviews and ratings, while not definitive, can offer insights into patient experiences and satisfaction.

Beyond the core medical specialties, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is equally important. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact for many patients, and their ability to recognize early symptoms, order appropriate screenings (such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and facilitate timely referrals to specialists is vital. Assessing primary care availability in Hartford involves examining the number of PCPs practicing within the city, their acceptance of new patients, and the average wait times for appointments. A robust primary care network ensures that individuals have access to preventative care and early detection services, potentially leading to improved lung cancer outcomes.

Another crucial component of the "Lung Cancer Score" is the adoption of telemedicine. Telemedicine, particularly in the context of lung cancer, can bridge geographical barriers and enhance access to care. This includes remote consultations with specialists, virtual follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patient symptoms. Evaluating telemedicine adoption requires examining which practices and hospitals in 06106 offer these services, the types of services available (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in underserved areas, improving their access to care and reducing the burden of travel.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they are critical for patients battling lung cancer. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The "Lung Cancer Score" must incorporate an evaluation of the availability of mental health services within the community. This includes assessing the number of therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups available, as well as the accessibility of these resources for patients. Are there oncology-specific therapists or support groups? Are services covered by insurance and easily accessible? The presence of robust mental health support can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients and contribute to better treatment outcomes.

In the evaluation of standout practices, several factors come into play. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offer comprehensive services, and utilize innovative technologies would receive high marks. This includes practices that actively participate in clinical trials, offer multidisciplinary care teams (involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, nurses, social workers, and other specialists), and provide patient navigation services to help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. Practices that prioritize communication, offer clear explanations of treatment options, and involve patients in decision-making processes are also highly valued.

Furthermore, the "Lung Cancer Score" should consider the availability of supportive services, such as smoking cessation programs, nutritional counseling, and physical therapy. These services can play a vital role in improving patient outcomes and overall well-being. Smoking cessation programs are particularly important, as smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. Nutritional counseling can help patients maintain their strength and manage side effects from treatment. Physical therapy can help patients improve their physical function and quality of life.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 06106 and the primary care availability in Hartford is a complex assessment requiring data-driven insights. It is not merely a ranking but a comprehensive evaluation of the healthcare ecosystem's ability to support individuals facing lung cancer. By considering physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of supportive services, a more accurate and useful picture of the local landscape emerges. This analysis aims to empower patients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their care.

For a visual representation of these factors, including physician locations, hospital affiliations, and resource availability, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome.