06387, Wauregan, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06387, Wauregan, Connecticut is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 06387 has some form of health insurance. 28.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.31 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 06387 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 69 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06387. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 594 health care providers accessible to residents in 06387, Wauregan, Connecticut.

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 06387, encompassing the Wauregan area, requires a multifaceted approach. We'll delve into key metrics, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components in assessing the quality and accessibility of care. This analysis will culminate in a call to action, directing readers to the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. It provides a snapshot of the availability of medical professionals relative to the population's needs. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio generally suggests greater access to care, allowing for more personalized attention and proactive health management. In ZIP code 06387, the exact physician-to-patient ratio fluctuates based on the specific specialties considered and the data sources used. Therefore, precise figures require up-to-date data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and state medical boards. This information is crucial to understand the capacity of the local healthcare system to handle the potential burden of lung cancer cases, which often require specialized care.

Evaluating "standout practices" necessitates identifying healthcare providers that demonstrate excellence in lung cancer care. This involves looking for practices with board-certified pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. Furthermore, it includes assessing the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scans for early detection, and the presence of comprehensive treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. Practices that participate in clinical trials and offer supportive services like smoking cessation programs and patient navigators are also highly valued. Publicly available resources like the National Cancer Institute's (NCI) Physician Data Query (PDQ) and the American Lung Association's resources can help identify these high-performing practices. The presence of a multidisciplinary team, where specialists collaborate to develop individualized treatment plans, is a hallmark of quality lung cancer care.

Telemedicine adoption has transformed healthcare delivery, particularly in rural and underserved areas. It offers a means to overcome geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists and consultations without the need for extensive travel. Telemedicine can be especially beneficial for lung cancer patients, enabling remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual follow-up appointments, and access to support groups. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption in ZIP code 06387 involves examining the availability of telehealth services offered by local hospitals and practices. This includes determining the types of services offered, the ease of access to these services, and the technological infrastructure in place to support them. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care.

The impact of a lung cancer diagnosis extends beyond the physical realm, often significantly affecting mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. These resources help patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany a cancer diagnosis and treatment. Evaluating the mental health resources in ZIP code 06387 involves assessing the availability of mental health professionals, the presence of support groups specifically for cancer patients, and the integration of mental health services into the broader healthcare system. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide access to these resources demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care.

Primary care availability in Wauregan is another crucial factor. Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a vital role in preventative care, early detection, and the coordination of care for lung cancer patients. They can conduct initial screenings, refer patients to specialists, and provide ongoing support throughout the treatment process. Assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of PCPs in the area, their patient load, and the ease with which patients can access their services. The presence of a strong primary care network can significantly improve patient outcomes by facilitating early detection and timely access to specialized care.

In conclusion, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for doctors in ZIP code 06387, Wauregan, requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the identification of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the strength of the primary care network. Each of these factors contributes to the overall quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in the area. The goal is to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and to identify areas where improvements can be made.

For a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of specialists, hospitals, and support services, consider utilizing the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a visual representation of healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with high concentrations of resources and areas that may be underserved. Explore the spatial relationships between healthcare providers, population demographics, and other relevant factors to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wauregan and beyond.