06378, Stonington, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06378, Stonington, Connecticut is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.97 percent of the residents in 06378 has some form of health insurance. 37.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.66 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 06378 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 826 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06378. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,737 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,272 health care providers accessible to residents in 06378, Stonington, Connecticut.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Stonington, CT (ZIP Code 06378)

This analysis examines the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 06378 (Stonington, CT), focusing on primary care availability and its impact on early detection and treatment. A "Lung Cancer Score" is implicitly generated by assessing various factors contributing to a patient's ability to navigate the healthcare system effectively, from initial screening to supportive care. This score, though not a numerical value, reflects the overall quality and accessibility of resources within the community.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests on robust primary care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Stonington significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. A higher physician-to-patient ratio, indicating more PCPs per capita, generally translates to easier access for routine checkups, preventative screenings, and timely referrals to specialists. Conversely, a shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients might struggle to secure appointments or face longer wait times. This is particularly crucial for lung cancer, where early detection through screening, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, is vital for improved outcomes.

Stonington's demographics, including age distribution and smoking prevalence, also influence the Lung Cancer Score. A higher proportion of older adults and individuals with a history of smoking would necessitate a more proactive approach to lung cancer screening and awareness campaigns. The local healthcare infrastructure must be equipped to handle a potentially higher incidence of the disease.

Examining specific practices within the area is crucial. While a comprehensive list of all practices and their performance is beyond the scope of this analysis, identifying standout practices is possible. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to preventative care, including actively promoting lung cancer screening for eligible patients, would receive a higher implicit score. These practices would likely have established protocols for identifying at-risk individuals, ordering LDCT scans, and coordinating follow-up care. The presence of dedicated nurse navigators or patient advocates within a practice further enhances the Lung Cancer Score, as these individuals can guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and support services.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in the Lung Cancer Score, particularly in a geographically dispersed area like Stonington. Telemedicine offers several advantages. It increases access to specialists, especially for those living in rural areas or facing mobility challenges. It facilitates remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and even mental health support. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for routine checkups and consultations, would contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score. This accessibility is especially beneficial for patients undergoing treatment, reducing the need for frequent travel and minimizing disruption to their lives.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the community is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either through in-house providers or readily available referrals, would significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score. This integration ensures that patients receive comprehensive support, addressing both their physical and emotional needs. The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, further enhances the Lung Cancer Score, providing patients with a sense of community and shared experience.

The integration of these factors – physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – paints a picture of the overall quality of lung cancer care within Stonington. The Lung Cancer Score is not a static value but a dynamic reflection of the community's ability to provide comprehensive, accessible, and patient-centered care.

The quality of primary care in Stonington, and the availability of specialists in the surrounding areas, are vital for the Lung Cancer Score. Proximity to major hospitals and cancer centers can significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score. Patients with complex cases often require specialized treatment, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The ability to access these services quickly and efficiently is paramount. The presence of multidisciplinary cancer care teams, comprising oncologists, surgeons, pulmonologists, and other specialists, further enhances the Lung Cancer Score, ensuring that patients receive coordinated and comprehensive care.

The availability of resources, such as patient education materials, support groups, and financial assistance programs, also contributes to the Lung Cancer Score. These resources empower patients to make informed decisions about their care and navigate the healthcare system effectively. Practices that actively provide these resources, either directly or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score for Stonington reflects the community's commitment to providing high-quality, accessible, and patient-centered care for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer. It is a complex interplay of various factors, all working together to improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life for patients.

This analysis underscores the importance of understanding the healthcare landscape within a specific geographic area. To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare infrastructure in Stonington, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and patient demographics, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, providing valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of care.