06355, Mystic, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06355, Mystic, Connecticut is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.45 percent of the residents in 06355 has some form of health insurance. 36.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.63 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 06355 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,147 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06355. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,158 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,769 health care providers accessible to residents in 06355, Mystic, Connecticut.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Mystic, CT (06355) - Primary Care Landscape

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the primary care landscape in Mystic, Connecticut (ZIP code 06355), with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The assessment considers physician availability, quality of care, and access to crucial resources, ultimately contributing to a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the community's preparedness to address this significant health challenge. The analysis considers the importance of early detection and prompt treatment, which are critical for improved patient outcomes.

The foundation of this analysis is built upon the availability of primary care physicians. The physician-to-patient ratio in Mystic, and the surrounding New London County, is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a favorable ratio can facilitate more proactive care, including regular screenings and timely referrals. Publicly available data from the Connecticut Department of Public Health, and relevant medical associations, are used to ascertain this critical ratio. The analysis will also consider the average appointment wait times reported by local practices, as this is a key indicator of accessibility.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care provided by local primary care practices is paramount. This involves assessing the practices' commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening protocols. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for individuals meeting specific criteria (age, smoking history). The analysis will investigate the degree to which local practices actively implement these guidelines. This includes evaluating the availability of LDCT scanning facilities in the immediate area and the practices' referral processes for patients who meet the screening criteria. The practices' adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability will also be evaluated, as this can significantly impact care coordination and the sharing of patient information between specialists.

Several primary care practices in Mystic stand out in their commitment to patient care. These practices are identified through a combination of factors, including patient reviews, peer recommendations, and publicly available data on quality metrics. The analysis will identify these "standout practices" and highlight their specific strengths. For example, practices known for their proactive screening programs, their patient-centered approach, or their commitment to patient education will be recognized. The analysis will focus on practices that demonstrably prioritize early detection and comprehensive care for patients at risk of lung cancer. The presence of dedicated patient navigators, who assist patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, will also be considered a positive factor.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of this analysis. The ability to offer virtual consultations and remote monitoring can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically remote areas. The analysis will assess the extent to which local primary care practices have embraced telemedicine technologies. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote patient monitoring devices, and the overall ease of access to telehealth services. The adoption of telemedicine is particularly relevant for lung cancer patients, who may require frequent follow-up appointments and ongoing support.

The emotional and psychological well-being of lung cancer patients is often overlooked, but it is a crucial component of their overall health. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting and in the broader Mystic community. This includes assessing the presence of on-site therapists or counselors, the availability of referrals to mental health specialists, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan. Access to support groups, both in-person and online, will also be considered. The analysis will emphasize the importance of addressing the emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and ensuring that patients have access to the support they need.

The Lung Cancer Score for Mystic, CT (06355) will be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care landscape. It will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score will serve as a valuable tool for residents of Mystic, providing insights into the accessibility and quality of care available to them. It will also provide a benchmark for local healthcare providers, allowing them to identify areas for improvement and enhance their services. The score will be based on the following factors: physician-to-patient ratio (weighted at 25%), preventative care protocols (30%), telemedicine adoption (15%), and mental health resources (30%).

This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the primary care landscape in Mystic, CT, with a focus on factors relevant to lung cancer care. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, residents can make informed decisions about their health and seek out the care they need. The analysis is a dynamic tool and will be updated regularly to reflect changes in the local healthcare environment.

For a more detailed, interactive visualization of the healthcare landscape in Mystic, CT (06355), including physician locations, practice details, and access to resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a powerful tool for understanding and navigating the complexities of the local healthcare system.