06374, Plainfield, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06374, Plainfield, Connecticut is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.78 percent of the residents in 06374 has some form of health insurance. 38.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.63 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 06374 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,716 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06374. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,280 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 650 health care providers accessible to residents in 06374, Plainfield, Connecticut.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Plainfield, CT (ZIP Code 06374)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of healthcare relevant to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment within Plainfield, Connecticut (ZIP code 06374), focusing on primary care physicians and their impact on early detection and patient support. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. This score is not a single number but a comprehensive evaluation of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

Plainfield, a town in eastern Connecticut, presents a unique healthcare environment. The community's access to primary care physicians is critical for lung cancer prevention, early detection, and ongoing management. Early detection through screening programs, often initiated by primary care providers, significantly improves patient outcomes.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a foundational metric. An adequate number of primary care physicians is essential to ensure timely access to appointments and screenings. National averages can provide a baseline for comparison, but local variations are crucial. A higher ratio of patients per physician might indicate longer wait times and potentially reduced access to preventive care, impacting the early stages of lung cancer detection. Data on the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 06374 is required to provide a precise evaluation. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the Connecticut Department of Public Health would be essential for this.

Standout practices within Plainfield are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care. This includes practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, particularly for high-risk individuals (e.g., smokers, those with a family history). These practices should have clear protocols for ordering and interpreting low-dose CT scans, the primary screening tool for lung cancer. Furthermore, practices that offer or readily refer patients to smoking cessation programs are highly valuable. These programs are crucial in reducing the risk of developing lung cancer and improving patient outcomes. The presence of dedicated nurse navigators, who guide patients through the diagnostic and treatment process, also elevates a practice's score.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and provide remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically remote areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for routine check-ups, medication management, and specialist consultations, receive a higher score. This is particularly relevant for patients managing chronic conditions or undergoing cancer treatment. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists who may not be readily available locally.

Mental health resources are a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues, provide access to counseling services (either in-house or through referrals), and integrate mental health support into their treatment plans receive a higher score. Collaboration with mental health professionals is vital for addressing the psychological needs of patients and improving their overall quality of life. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, also contributes to a positive score.

Assessing the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also critical. While primary care physicians often initiate screenings and manage initial care, specialists are essential for diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing care. The proximity of these specialists, along with their availability and wait times, significantly impacts the patient journey. Practices that have strong referral networks with local specialists and can facilitate timely appointments receive a higher score.

The quality of care also involves patient education. Practices that provide clear, concise, and accessible information about lung cancer, its risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options score higher. This can include providing educational materials, hosting patient seminars, and utilizing online resources. Patient empowerment through education is crucial for informed decision-making and improved outcomes.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Plainfield, CT, would be determined by a weighted average of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, specialist availability, and patient education would each be assigned a weight based on their relative importance. The final score would reflect the overall quality and accessibility of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer within the ZIP code.

A low score might indicate a need for increased primary care physician recruitment, improved access to screening programs, greater integration of telemedicine, and expanded mental health support. A high score would suggest a robust healthcare system with readily available resources for lung cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. Regular monitoring and evaluation of these factors are essential to ensure that the healthcare system continues to meet the needs of the community.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Plainfield, including physician locations, specialist availability, and potential gaps in care, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual tool for analyzing healthcare data, identifying areas of need, and informing strategic planning.