06280, Windham, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06280, Windham, Connecticut is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.14 percent of the residents in 06280 has some form of health insurance. 35.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.81 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 06280 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 694 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06280. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 540 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 426 health care providers accessible to residents in 06280, Windham, Connecticut.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Windham, CT (ZIP Code 06280)**

The health landscape of Windham, Connecticut, presents a complex interplay of factors influencing lung cancer care and overall patient well-being. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources within the 06280 ZIP code. This assessment is crucial for residents seeking quality healthcare, as well as for healthcare providers aiming to improve their services. A comprehensive approach is essential to address the challenges and capitalize on the strengths within this community.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Windham is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio generally suggests better access to care and more individualized attention. Data from state and national sources is needed to calculate the precise ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, who are directly involved in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This ratio is not static; it fluctuates based on physician availability, patient demographics, and the influx of new residents.

Standout practices within the 06280 ZIP code are those that demonstrate excellence in patient care, particularly in the areas of lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. These practices often employ cutting-edge diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scans for early detection, and offer a multidisciplinary approach to care, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The presence of certified lung cancer screening centers, adhering to the guidelines of organizations like the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), is a positive indicator. These centers typically have a robust system for patient education, risk assessment, and follow-up care. Identifying these practices requires a review of patient reviews, accreditation status, and the types of services offered.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, especially in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption in Windham can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who have difficulty traveling to appointments or who require follow-up consultations. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations with specialists, provide access to educational resources, and support chronic disease management. The availability of telemedicine services within the 06280 ZIP code, and the extent to which these services are utilized by local practices, are important factors to consider. This includes the types of platforms used, the ease of access for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan.

The link between lung cancer and mental health is well-established. A lung cancer diagnosis can cause significant psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health resources is therefore crucial for patients undergoing treatment and recovery. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric services. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices and oncology centers is a sign of a patient-centered approach. Assessing the availability of these resources in Windham involves examining the presence of mental health providers, the types of services offered, and the coordination between mental health and medical care.

Primary care availability is fundamental to the early detection and management of lung cancer. PCPs play a vital role in screening patients for risk factors, referring them for diagnostic tests, and coordinating their care. The accessibility of primary care in Windham, including the number of PCPs, their office hours, and their acceptance of insurance plans, directly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely and appropriate care. The presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers is particularly important for serving vulnerable populations. Assessing primary care availability involves analyzing the geographic distribution of PCPs, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the availability of after-hours care.

The quality of lung cancer care in Windham is also influenced by the availability of specialized services, such as pulmonology and oncology. The presence of pulmonologists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of lung diseases, including lung cancer, is critical. Similarly, the availability of oncologists, who specialize in the treatment of cancer, is essential for providing chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other cancer treatments. The proximity of these specialists to the community, the quality of their facilities, and their collaboration with other healthcare providers all contribute to the overall level of care.

The integration of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs), can improve care coordination and communication between healthcare providers. EHRs allow physicians to access patient information quickly and efficiently, facilitating informed decision-making. The use of EHRs, and the extent to which they are integrated across different healthcare settings, is a key factor in assessing the quality of care in Windham. This includes the ability of healthcare providers to share patient information, coordinate care, and track patient outcomes.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Windham is a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of all these factors. It is not a single number but a holistic assessment of the healthcare environment. The score should consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the accessibility of primary and specialized care. This score will evolve over time, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape.

The analysis of the healthcare landscape in Windham, CT (06280) is a complex undertaking. Data collection from various sources, including government agencies, healthcare providers, and patient surveys, is crucial. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to track changes in the healthcare environment and to identify areas for improvement. This information can be used to guide healthcare policy, improve patient care, and ultimately, reduce the burden of lung cancer in the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Windham, including physician locations, access to care, and other relevant data, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. This tool allows you to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.