Health Scores Near 06384, Voluntown, Connecticut
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The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06384, Voluntown, Connecticut is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 94.88 percent of the residents in 06384 has some form of health insurance. 32.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.82 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 06384 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 544 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06384. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 383 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 919 health care providers accessible to residents in 06384, Voluntown, Connecticut.
Health Scores in 06384, Voluntown, Connecticut
| Lung Cancer Score | 58 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 47 |
| Provider Score | 47 |
| Hospital Score | 62 |
| Travel Score | 47 |
| 06384 | Voluntown | Connecticut | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
The following analysis evaluates the availability and quality of lung cancer care within ZIP code 06384 (Voluntown, Connecticut), focusing on primary care physicians and their associated resources. This assessment considers factors relevant to early detection, treatment access, and overall patient well-being, particularly in relation to the challenges presented by lung cancer. This is not a medical recommendation, and any health decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified medical professional.
Voluntown, a rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the foundation for effective lung cancer screening and management. Early detection through regular screenings, particularly for individuals at high risk (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history), significantly improves survival rates. The success of screening programs hinges on the accessibility of PCPs who can order these tests and guide patients through the process.
Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This is especially concerning in a community like Voluntown, where geographic limitations and transportation challenges may exacerbate these issues. Assessing the ratio requires data on the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the total population. Publicly available data from the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the U.S. Census Bureau can be used to approximate this ratio.
Beyond the raw number of doctors, the quality of care is paramount. This encompasses factors such as physician experience, training in lung cancer screening and treatment, and the adoption of evidence-based practices. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their commitment to patient education, their use of electronic health records (EHRs) for tracking patient data and coordinating care, and their adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening and management.
Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in improving access to care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially speeding up diagnoses and treatment plans. Practices that have embraced telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients with lung cancer demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to specialist expertise.
Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the primary care setting or through referral networks is vital. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. Assessing the availability of these resources involves examining the practice's referral network, the presence of on-site mental health professionals, and the availability of support groups.
The analysis of lung cancer care in Voluntown also requires examining the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities. While PCPs play a crucial role in early detection and initial management, access to specialists like pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists is essential for comprehensive care. Evaluating the proximity of these specialists, the availability of advanced imaging technologies (such as low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening), and the presence of comprehensive cancer treatment centers are all important considerations.
Specific practices in Voluntown need to be assessed individually. Each practice should be evaluated based on its physician-to-patient ratio, its adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and its adherence to lung cancer screening guidelines. Information on individual practices can be found through online directories, patient reviews, and by contacting the practices directly.
The analysis should also consider the impact of insurance coverage on access to care. The affordability of healthcare services, including screening tests, specialist consultations, and treatment, is a significant barrier for many patients. Examining the acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices and the availability of financial assistance programs can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care.
The assessment of lung cancer care in Voluntown should also consider the availability of patient education resources. Providing patients with clear and concise information about lung cancer, screening guidelines, treatment options, and support services is essential for empowering them to make informed decisions about their health. Practices that provide patient education materials, offer support groups, and have dedicated patient navigators can significantly improve patient outcomes.
Furthermore, the analysis should consider the impact of community outreach and education programs. Practices that actively participate in community health initiatives, such as smoking cessation programs and lung cancer awareness campaigns, demonstrate a commitment to preventing lung cancer and improving the overall health of the community. Assessing the presence of these programs can provide insights into the proactive approach of local practices.
In conclusion, evaluating the availability and quality of lung cancer care in Voluntown (ZIP code 06384) requires a comprehensive assessment of primary care physician availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, access to specialist care, insurance coverage, patient education, and community outreach. This assessment should identify areas of strength and weakness, highlighting practices that excel in providing comprehensive lung cancer care and identifying opportunities for improvement.
To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Voluntown and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, specialist facilities, and other relevant resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a valuable visual representation of the data discussed, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of the accessibility of lung cancer care in the community.
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