06444, Marion, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06444, Marion, Connecticut is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 06444 has some form of health insurance. 62.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.03 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 06444 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 63 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06444. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 17 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,483 health care providers accessible to residents in 06444, Marion, Connecticut.

## Lung Cancer Score: 06444 & Marion, CT – An Analytical Overview

Analyzing healthcare resources within a specific geographic area requires a multi-faceted approach, particularly when assessing a disease as serious as lung cancer. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 06444 (likely encompassing parts of, or the entirety of, Madison, CT) and the broader context of primary care availability in Marion, CT, evaluating factors crucial to patient outcomes. This examination aims to provide a 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment, considering factors beyond simple survival rates, encompassing access to care, quality of treatment, and supportive resources.

The foundation of a strong lung cancer care system lies in accessible and robust primary care. Marion, CT, and its surrounding areas, including those served by 06444, need a sufficient number of primary care physicians (PCPs) to ensure timely diagnosis and referral. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses, a critical factor in lung cancer prognosis. Conversely, a higher ratio, indicating greater accessibility, can facilitate early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals to specialists. Assessing the availability of PCPs involves analyzing the number of active, practicing physicians in the area, considering their patient load, and evaluating appointment wait times. This data, ideally, should be combined with patient satisfaction surveys regarding access to care.

Within the 06444 ZIP code, the presence of specialist care is equally vital. While primary care physicians are the initial point of contact, access to pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists is essential for comprehensive lung cancer treatment. The geographic proximity of these specialists, the time required to schedule appointments, and the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (like PET scans and advanced imaging) significantly impact patient outcomes. A high 'Lung Cancer Score' will reflect a concentration of these specialists within a reasonable travel distance, minimizing delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Standout practices within 06444 and those serving Marion, CT, can be identified through several key metrics. These include the adoption of evidence-based treatment guidelines, participation in clinical trials, and patient outcomes data. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection through screening programs, such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, should be recognized. Additionally, practices that offer multidisciplinary care, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and support staff working collaboratively, generally yield better results. These practices often have robust patient navigation programs, helping patients navigate the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the 'Lung Cancer Score.' Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists for patients in remote areas or with mobility limitations. It facilitates remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring, are likely to score higher, demonstrating a commitment to patient convenience and access. This includes the availability of virtual support groups and educational resources.

The mental health of lung cancer patients is often overlooked, yet it is a critical component of their overall well-being and treatment adherence. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and support groups, within the 06444 area and readily accessible to patients in Marion, CT, is a crucial component of the 'Lung Cancer Score.' Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans, offering counseling, therapy, and support groups, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care.

Furthermore, the availability of supportive services, such as palliative care, nutritional counseling, and smoking cessation programs, significantly impacts the quality of life for lung cancer patients. Palliative care focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life, while nutritional counseling helps patients maintain their strength and energy levels. Smoking cessation programs are essential for helping patients quit smoking, which can improve treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of recurrence. The presence of these supportive services within the healthcare ecosystem of 06444 and Marion, CT, will positively influence the 'Lung Cancer Score.'

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for the area served by ZIP code 06444 and the context of Marion, CT, is not a static number. It's a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in healthcare resources, treatment advancements, and patient outcomes. Regular data collection and analysis are necessary to track progress and identify areas for improvement. This includes monitoring physician-to-patient ratios, assessing telemedicine adoption rates, and evaluating the availability of mental health and supportive services.

In conclusion, assessing the 'Lung Cancer Score' requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, from physician availability and specialist access to the adoption of telemedicine and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape within 06444 and the context of Marion, CT.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in this area, including physician locations, specialist availability, and hospital locations, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their data visualization tools can help you understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care.