06359, North Stonington, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06359, North Stonington, Connecticut is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.68 percent of the residents in 06359 has some form of health insurance. 38.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.62 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 06359 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 910 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06359. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,272 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,797 health care providers accessible to residents in 06359, North Stonington, Connecticut.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 06359 & Primary Care in North Stonington

This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in North Stonington, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06359), with a specific focus on primary care availability and its implications for lung cancer prevention, early detection, and patient support. While a direct "Lung Cancer Score" is not quantifiable in this context, we will evaluate the factors that contribute to a healthcare environment conducive to positive outcomes for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer. This includes assessing physician access, innovative care models, and the availability of crucial support services.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management lies in accessible and robust primary care. In North Stonington, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Determining the precise ratio requires data from sources like the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the US Census Bureau. However, a lower ratio, indicating fewer primary care physicians per capita, presents a significant challenge. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative screenings like low-dose CT scans (essential for early lung cancer detection), and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, enabling more proactive care.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians within the ZIP code is also crucial. Are physicians concentrated in a central location, or are they dispersed throughout the community, making access easier for residents in more rural areas? This geographical accessibility directly impacts the ability of patients to attend regular check-ups, discuss risk factors (smoking history, family history), and receive appropriate referrals to pulmonologists or oncologists if needed.

Identifying standout practices within 06359 is important. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including actively promoting lung cancer screening for eligible patients (typically those aged 50-80 with a significant smoking history). They may also integrate electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for seamless communication between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers. Practices that demonstrate a strong focus on patient education, providing clear information about lung cancer risks, symptoms, and treatment options, are particularly valuable. Furthermore, a practice that actively participates in community outreach programs related to smoking cessation and health education is also an important factor.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, especially in rural areas. The availability of telehealth appointments can reduce the need for in-person visits, making it easier for patients to consult with their primary care physicians, discuss concerns, and receive follow-up care. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available in the immediate vicinity. The extent to which practices in 06359 have embraced telemedicine, and the types of services they offer remotely, are crucial indicators of their responsiveness to patient needs and their commitment to improving healthcare access.

The integration of mental health resources within primary care is another critical aspect of this analysis. A lung cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment process, can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Primary care practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established strong referral networks with mental health professionals, are better equipped to support patients throughout their journey. Access to counseling, support groups, and other mental health resources can significantly improve patient well-being and treatment outcomes.

Evaluating the availability of smoking cessation programs is also essential. Primary care physicians play a pivotal role in helping patients quit smoking, a primary risk factor for lung cancer. Practices that offer evidence-based smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and nicotine replacement therapy, are better positioned to reduce the risk of lung cancer in their patient populations. Collaboration with community organizations, such as the American Lung Association, can further enhance the effectiveness of these programs.

In addition to the factors mentioned above, assessing the overall quality of care requires examining patient satisfaction data, which can be obtained from patient surveys and online reviews. While these sources should be considered with caution, they can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication with physicians, wait times, and the overall quality of care.

The presence of a robust healthcare infrastructure, including access to advanced diagnostic tools like low-dose CT scanners and radiation therapy facilities, is also important. While these services may not be directly available within 06359, the proximity to hospitals and medical centers that offer these services is a crucial factor. A well-coordinated referral system between primary care physicians and specialists ensures that patients receive timely and appropriate care.

Finally, the commitment of healthcare providers to ongoing professional development and staying abreast of the latest advancements in lung cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment is crucial. This includes attending conferences, participating in continuing medical education (CME) programs, and adopting evidence-based practices.

In conclusion, while a single "Lung Cancer Score" is not possible, the factors discussed above provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape in North Stonington, Connecticut. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources are all critical components of understanding the quality of care available to residents. A strong primary care infrastructure, coupled with a commitment to preventative care, early detection, and patient support, is essential for improving outcomes for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and access to specialists in the area, explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. Use the mapping tools to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 06359 and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.