06256, North Windham, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06256, North Windham, Connecticut is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.61 percent of the residents in 06256 has some form of health insurance. 39.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.19 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 06256 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 446 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06256. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 371 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 472 health care providers accessible to residents in 06256, North Windham, Connecticut.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: North Windham, CT (ZIP Code 06256)

This analysis delves into the critical aspects of lung cancer care within the North Windham, CT (ZIP Code 06256) area, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) and their capacity to address the multifaceted needs of patients, especially those at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer. This analysis considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for the region, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and competent primary care. PCPs are the first line of defense, responsible for early detection through screening, risk assessment, and timely referrals to specialists. In North Windham, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial factor. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide this information, revealing whether the area is designated as a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) for primary care. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can significantly impact patient access, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. This delay could have a negative impact on the Lung Cancer Score.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These are clinics or medical groups that demonstrate excellence in patient care, particularly in the context of lung cancer prevention and management. This involves looking at factors such as the practice's adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening (using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible individuals), the availability of smoking cessation programs, and the efficiency of their referral processes to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. A practice that actively promotes screening, provides comprehensive support for smoking cessation, and facilitates prompt specialist consultations would receive a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption is another key consideration. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital patient education, can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can be particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing emotional support. The availability of telemedicine services within local practices would contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, especially for lung cancer-related care, would be recognized as leaders in patient care.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but is crucial for lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis, and its treatment, can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health services, either within the primary care practice or through readily accessible referrals, is a critical component of comprehensive care. Practices that prioritize mental health support, offering on-site counseling or strong partnerships with mental health professionals, would receive higher marks. This focus on holistic care significantly improves the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Furthermore, it is important to examine the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer, and effective cessation programs are essential for prevention and reducing the risk of recurrence. Practices that offer evidence-based smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and support groups, demonstrate a commitment to patient well-being and contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score. The presence of these resources directly impacts the area's capacity to address the root causes of lung cancer.

Beyond the individual practices, the overall healthcare ecosystem in North Windham plays a significant role. This includes the availability of diagnostic imaging services (such as CT scanners and PET scanners), the proximity of specialized cancer centers, and the efficiency of the referral pathways between PCPs and specialists. A well-coordinated system, where patients can easily access the necessary resources, would contribute to a higher Lung Cancer Score. The ease of access to these specialized services is a crucial element of the overall evaluation.

In evaluating the Lung Cancer Score, it is also important to consider the demographics of the population in North Windham. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and racial/ethnic composition can influence lung cancer risk and access to care. Addressing health disparities and ensuring equitable access to resources is crucial for improving the overall health outcomes. The analysis must consider these factors to provide a fair and accurate assessment.

The ultimate "Lung Cancer Score" for North Windham (ZIP Code 06256) would be a composite score, incorporating all the factors discussed above. This score would reflect the area's strengths and weaknesses in providing lung cancer care, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. The score would be a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members, guiding efforts to improve patient outcomes. The score would be a reflection of the overall capacity of the community to address the challenges posed by lung cancer.

This analysis emphasizes the need for a multifaceted approach to lung cancer care. It is not enough to simply focus on diagnosis and treatment. Prevention, early detection, comprehensive support, and a well-coordinated healthcare system are all essential for improving patient outcomes. The Lung Cancer Score is a tool to evaluate and improve the overall quality of care in North Windham. The score is a dynamic measure that can be used to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize the data, identify trends, and pinpoint areas of need, we encourage you to explore the dynamic mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide an interactive view of the healthcare landscape in North Windham, allowing you to see the distribution of PCPs, the location of specialized services, and other relevant information. **Click here to explore the power of CartoChrome maps and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community!**