06385, Waterford, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06385, Waterford, Connecticut is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.52 percent of the residents in 06385 has some form of health insurance. 36.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.68 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 06385 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,302 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06385. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,266 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,312 health care providers accessible to residents in 06385, Waterford, Connecticut.

## Lung Cancer Score: Waterford, CT (ZIP Code 06385) – A Comprehensive Analysis

This analysis provides a nuanced assessment of the healthcare landscape in Waterford, Connecticut (ZIP code 06385), focusing on factors critical to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. We will evaluate the availability of primary care, a crucial entry point for screening and referral, and analyze the resources available to support patients facing this challenging disease. The goal is to provide a “Lung Cancer Score” based on various metrics, offering insights for residents and healthcare providers alike.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer strategy lies in accessible primary care. In Waterford, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 06385 ZIP code, and the surrounding areas, directly impacts the likelihood of residents receiving timely screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, for those at high risk. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will consider the presence of family medicine practices, internal medicine clinics, and their respective patient loads.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. Several practices in Waterford stand out. We'll identify those with a demonstrated commitment to preventative care, including proactive screening programs for lung cancer. This includes reviewing their patient outreach strategies, their adherence to national guidelines for LDCT screening (particularly for individuals with a significant smoking history), and their success in referring patients to specialists when necessary. Practices that actively educate patients about lung cancer risks and the importance of early detection will receive higher scores.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telehealth, and its continued integration into healthcare delivery is vital. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and discussing test results, can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in more remote areas. The analysis will assess the extent to which primary care practices and specialists in Waterford offer telemedicine services, the ease of use of their platforms, and the types of services available through telehealth.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the “Lung Cancer Score.” The analysis will examine the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the 06385 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. We will also consider the availability of support groups, both in-person and online, specifically for cancer patients and their families. The integration of mental health services into primary care and oncology practices, ensuring seamless access to psychological support, will be a key factor in determining the score.

The presence of specialized cancer care within the immediate vicinity also influences the overall score. While Waterford may not have a major cancer center, the proximity to facilities offering comprehensive oncology services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology, is essential. The analysis will evaluate the accessibility of these facilities, the quality of their services, and their track record in treating lung cancer. Collaboration and referral networks between primary care practices and these specialized centers are also crucial.

Furthermore, the analysis will assess the availability of smoking cessation programs. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective cessation programs are critical for prevention. The analysis will evaluate the availability of these programs within the 06385 ZIP code, including the types of services offered (e.g., counseling, medication), their success rates, and their accessibility to residents. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation and offer support to patients attempting to quit will receive higher scores.

The “Lung Cancer Score” will also consider the demographics of the population in Waterford. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and race/ethnicity can influence lung cancer risk and access to care. The analysis will consider these factors and their potential impact on the overall score. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and equitable assessment of the healthcare landscape in Waterford.

In conclusion, the “Lung Cancer Score” for Waterford, CT (06385) will be a multifaceted assessment considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices with robust screening programs, telemedicine adoption rates, the availability of mental health resources, access to specialized cancer care, and the presence of smoking cessation programs. The final score will reflect the overall strength of the healthcare infrastructure in supporting lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. This analysis aims to provide valuable insights for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers in Waterford, CT, ultimately contributing to improved lung cancer outcomes.

For a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Waterford, including visual representations of physician locations, access to care, and other relevant data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. They provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize and analyze healthcare data, empowering you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your health and the healthcare resources available in your community.