06234, Brooklyn, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06234, Brooklyn, Connecticut is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.89 percent of the residents in 06234 has some form of health insurance. 33.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.16 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 06234 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,964 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06234. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,398 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 448 health care providers accessible to residents in 06234, Brooklyn, Connecticut.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: 06234 & Brooklyn Primary Care

This analysis provides a comparative "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care within ZIP code 06234 (representing a specific geographical area, which will be treated as hypothetical for this exercise) and the broader context of primary care accessibility in Brooklyn, New York. The score considers factors crucial for early lung cancer detection and effective management, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources. This evaluation aims to highlight strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement in each location.

In 06234, the Lung Cancer Score is initially assessed by examining the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians, directly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely screenings and follow-up care. We need to ascertain the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code and compare this to the estimated population. The national average physician-to-patient ratio serves as a benchmark. A ratio significantly worse than the national average would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a favorable ratio, reflecting a higher concentration of physicians, would positively influence the score.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of care is paramount. The analysis considers the presence of "standout practices" within 06234. These are defined as primary care clinics or practices that have demonstrated excellence in patient care, potentially evidenced by accreditation from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or the Joint Commission. Furthermore, we look for practices actively participating in initiatives focused on early cancer detection, such as implementing structured screening programs for high-risk individuals, including those with a history of smoking. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability are also key. Practices utilizing EHRs to track patient risk factors and automate reminders for screenings would receive a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score. In a rural or underserved area like 06234 (again, assuming this is the case), telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and increase access to care. Practices offering virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, are viewed favorably. The ability to remotely monitor patients' symptoms and provide support can be particularly valuable for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment or those at high risk. The availability of telemedicine also allows for greater access to specialists who may not be located within the immediate ZIP code.

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Practices that incorporate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or through partnerships with mental health professionals, receive a higher score. This includes offering counseling, support groups, and access to psychiatric care when needed. The ability to address the psychological impact of the disease is critical for patient outcomes.

Shifting the focus to Brooklyn, the Lung Cancer Score is assessed in a different context. Brooklyn, being a large urban area, presents a different set of challenges and opportunities. The sheer population density impacts the physician-to-patient ratio. While the overall number of physicians might be higher than in a more rural area, the ratio could still be unfavorable if the population growth outpaces the increase in the number of primary care providers. The analysis will compare Brooklyn's physician-to-patient ratio to the national average and to other similar metropolitan areas.

The analysis in Brooklyn will also evaluate the presence of "standout practices," focusing on clinics and hospitals known for their comprehensive cancer care programs. This includes looking at the availability of specialized lung cancer screening programs, the use of advanced diagnostic technologies, and the integration of multidisciplinary care teams. The score will consider the presence of centers of excellence in lung cancer treatment, such as those affiliated with major hospitals or research institutions.

Telemedicine adoption in Brooklyn is also significant, especially considering the potential for transportation challenges and the need for convenient access to care. The analysis will examine the extent to which primary care practices and hospitals offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals. The availability of telemedicine can significantly improve access to care for patients with mobility issues or those living in underserved neighborhoods.

Mental health integration is particularly crucial in Brooklyn, where factors such as socioeconomic disparities, stress, and exposure to environmental hazards can increase the risk of lung cancer and negatively impact patient outcomes. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health services within primary care practices and hospitals, including access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. The integration of mental health services is considered a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care.

In both 06234 and Brooklyn, the Lung Cancer Score is a composite measure. The score considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The higher the score, the better the availability and quality of primary care, which is essential for early detection and effective management of lung cancer. The analysis is dynamic, and scores can change as practices improve their services or new data becomes available.

The analysis acknowledges that this is a simplified assessment. A comprehensive evaluation would require a more detailed examination of individual practices, patient outcomes, and other relevant factors. However, this framework provides a valuable starting point for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of primary care access in each location. The goal is to highlight areas where improvements are needed and to promote the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care.

To gain a visual understanding of the primary care landscape in both 06234 and Brooklyn, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides detailed geographic data and allows for the visualization of key factors influencing lung cancer care.