06419, Killingworth, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06419, Killingworth, Connecticut is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.96 percent of the residents in 06419 has some form of health insurance. 26.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.64 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 06419 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,239 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06419. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,402 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,548 health care providers accessible to residents in 06419, Killingworth, Connecticut.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: 06419 & Killingworth Primary Care

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care within ZIP code 06419 (Clinton, CT) and its impact on lung cancer care, particularly focusing on early detection and patient support. The evaluation incorporates physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a comprehensive approach to lung cancer. The analysis also considers the specific context of Killingworth, CT, and its access to primary care services.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and competent primary care. Early detection through screening, typically facilitated by primary care physicians, significantly improves survival rates. The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings or follow-up care. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates for the 06419 area. This data, coupled with information on the number of primary care practices in the region, offers a preliminary assessment of access.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of local primary care practices matter. Practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, adhere to established guidelines, and possess the necessary equipment, such as low-dose CT scanners, are vital. Evaluating the practices' adherence to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines for lung cancer screening (e.g., for current and former smokers meeting specific criteria) is essential. Practices that proactively reach out to eligible patients and facilitate screening are more likely to contribute to early detection.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically remote areas. Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments after screening, provide education on risk factors, and offer support for smoking cessation. Practices in 06419 that embrace telemedicine technologies are better positioned to provide comprehensive lung cancer care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to the overall well-being of lung cancer patients. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to specialists, can significantly improve patient outcomes. This includes access to counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care when needed. The availability of these resources within the primary care network in 06419 is a key indicator of the quality of care.

The analysis also considers the specific context of Killingworth, CT. Killingworth, with its more rural character, may face unique challenges in accessing primary care. The proximity of Killingworth residents to primary care practices within 06419 is a critical factor. If Killingworth residents rely heavily on practices located within 06419, the quality and accessibility of those practices become even more important. Travel time to appointments, availability of transportation, and the ability of practices to accommodate the needs of patients in Killingworth all influence the overall score.

Standout practices within 06419 warrant specific recognition. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, patient education, and comprehensive care, including telemedicine and mental health integration, should be highlighted. These practices serve as models for others and contribute to a higher overall lung cancer score for the region. Identifying these practices involves reviewing patient reviews, assessing practice websites, and potentially conducting interviews with healthcare professionals.

The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also crucial. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the ability of primary care physicians to refer patients to specialists quickly and efficiently is essential. The proximity of specialists and the efficiency of the referral process contribute to the overall quality of lung cancer care. The presence of comprehensive cancer centers within a reasonable distance from 06419 is also a positive factor.

The lung cancer score for 06419 and Killingworth should be considered a dynamic assessment. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and guidelines emerging regularly. This analysis should be updated periodically to reflect these changes and ensure the accuracy of the assessment. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to maintain a high standard of care.

The final score, a culmination of the factors discussed, should reflect the overall quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in the region. This score can be used by patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare, by healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement, and by policymakers to allocate resources effectively. The score should be transparent, easily understandable, and based on readily available data.

In summary, the lung cancer score for 06419 and Killingworth is determined by a multifaceted analysis. The physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources are all assessed. The specific needs of Killingworth residents are also considered. This comprehensive approach provides a valuable assessment of the healthcare landscape and its impact on lung cancer care.

To explore the geographic distribution of primary care practices, specialists, and cancer centers in the 06419 area, and to visualize the factors impacting access to care, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide detailed spatial analysis and visualization tools, enabling a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and its impact on patient outcomes.