06247, Hampton, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06247, Hampton, Connecticut is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.15 percent of the residents in 06247 has some form of health insurance. 38.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.27 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 06247 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 489 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06247. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 449 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 480 health care providers accessible to residents in 06247, Hampton, Connecticut.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Hampton, CT (ZIP Code 06247)

This analysis provides a preliminary assessment of the healthcare landscape in Hampton, Connecticut (ZIP code 06247), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the available resources, particularly regarding primary care, which serves as the crucial gateway to early detection and specialized care. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources – all critical components of a comprehensive lung cancer care model.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. Within Hampton, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a significant factor. While precise physician-to-patient ratios require access to detailed data (e.g., the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the resident population), we can infer certain characteristics. Rural areas, such as Hampton, often face challenges in physician recruitment and retention. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate whether the existing PCPs are sufficient to meet the needs of the community, especially considering the aging population, which is a known risk factor for lung cancer.

Standout practices, if any, would be those demonstrating a commitment to preventative care and early detection. This includes practices that actively promote lung cancer screening for eligible patients, adhering to established guidelines from organizations like the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). These guidelines recommend annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for individuals meeting specific criteria (e.g., age, smoking history). Practices that offer convenient access to these screenings, coupled with clear protocols for follow-up and referral to specialists (e.g., pulmonologists, oncologists), would be considered highly valuable. Identifying these practices requires a detailed review of practice websites, patient reviews, and potentially direct outreach to healthcare providers in the area.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to enhance access to care, particularly in rural settings. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. This is especially important for pulmonology and oncology consultations, where access to specialists might be limited in Hampton. The availability of telemedicine options for initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment can significantly improve patient outcomes. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption involves researching the practices' telehealth capabilities, including the platforms they use, the types of services offered remotely, and the availability of technical support for patients.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical in lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and its subsequent treatment, can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges are common. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is crucial for patients navigating the complexities of lung cancer. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either directly or through referrals to local mental health providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This requires investigating the availability of mental health professionals in the area, the types of mental health services offered, and the integration of these services into the overall care plan.

Furthermore, the presence of a local hospital or medical center is a crucial factor. Proximity to a hospital with advanced diagnostic capabilities (e.g., CT scanners, PET scanners) and a dedicated oncology department is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment. The hospital's capacity to provide chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions plays a significant role in patient outcomes. Analyzing the hospital's services, its affiliation with larger healthcare networks, and its track record in lung cancer treatment is critical.

Another aspect to consider is the availability of patient education and support resources. Lung cancer patients and their families need access to information about the disease, treatment options, and support services. Practices that provide educational materials, connect patients with support groups, and offer assistance with navigating the healthcare system are highly valuable. This includes assessing the availability of patient navigators, who can help patients coordinate appointments, understand treatment plans, and access financial assistance.

The quality of communication and coordination between healthcare providers is also essential. Effective communication between PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists ensures that patients receive coordinated and comprehensive care. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and have established protocols for communication and referral management are likely to provide better care. Investigating the interoperability of EHR systems and the communication practices of the healthcare providers in Hampton is important.

In conclusion, assessing the lung cancer care landscape in Hampton (06247) requires a comprehensive analysis of various factors. While a definitive "Lung Cancer Score" necessitates detailed data, this analysis highlights the critical elements to consider. The availability of primary care, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, and the proximity to advanced medical facilities are all crucial components. A thorough investigation of these factors will provide a more complete picture of the healthcare resources available to lung cancer patients in Hampton and inform strategies for improving care.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare resources in Hampton, including geographic distribution of providers, access to specialized services, and proximity to hospitals, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow you to visualize and analyze healthcare data in a dynamic and interactive way, providing valuable insights for patients, providers, and policymakers. Explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hampton and beyond.