06461, Milford, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06461, Milford, Connecticut is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.63 percent of the residents in 06461 has some form of health insurance. 26.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.27 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 06461 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,810 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 40 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06461. An estimate of 11 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,652 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,636 health care providers accessible to residents in 06461, Milford, Connecticut.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Milford, CT (ZIP Code 06461)

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within Milford, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06461), focusing on primary care availability and the resources available to patients. It aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, ultimately informing patients and stakeholders. This analysis will not include specific doctor names, but rather focus on trends and general observations.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests heavily on robust primary care services. Early detection is crucial, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms. The availability of PCPs in Milford is a critical factor. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio, reflecting a more accessible primary care network, supports earlier intervention and improved patient outcomes. Data on the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 06461 will be a vital element in determining the overall score.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care matters. The analysis will consider factors such as the availability of same-day appointments for urgent concerns, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate information sharing, and the implementation of preventative care protocols, including lung cancer screening recommendations for at-risk individuals. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs and provide easy access to resources like counseling and nicotine replacement therapy will be viewed favorably.

Standout practices, if any, will be identified based on their commitment to patient-centered care. This includes factors like extended office hours, weekend availability, and the provision of multilingual services to cater to the diverse population of Milford. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to patient education, providing clear and concise information about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and screening options, will also be recognized.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element of the assessment. The ability to offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. The analysis will evaluate the extent to which local primary care practices have embraced telemedicine technologies, including the availability of virtual visits, secure patient portals for communication, and the use of remote monitoring devices.

The mental health of lung cancer patients is often overlooked, yet it is a critical component of overall well-being. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health resources is essential for coping with the physical and psychological challenges of the disease. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health services within the local healthcare system, including the presence of on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, the integration of mental health screenings into routine care, and the provision of support groups and counseling services specifically tailored to cancer patients.

Furthermore, the analysis will investigate the presence of specialized lung cancer care within or near Milford. This includes the availability of pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists, as well as access to advanced diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans and PET scans. The presence of multidisciplinary cancer care teams, bringing together specialists from various fields to collaborate on patient treatment plans, is a positive indicator of comprehensive care.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, is also a critical factor. These navigators can assist with scheduling appointments, understanding insurance coverage, and accessing financial assistance programs. The analysis will assess the availability of these services and their accessibility to patients in Milford.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Milford (06461) will be a composite of these factors. Each element, from physician-to-patient ratios to the availability of mental health resources, will be weighted based on its relative importance in influencing patient outcomes. The final score will provide a comprehensive overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, highlighting areas where improvements are needed.

This analysis will not include the names of specific doctors or practices, but rather focus on the overall trends and general observations within the community. The goal is to provide an objective assessment of the resources available to lung cancer patients in Milford, Connecticut, and to inform patients and stakeholders about the quality of care in the area. The score will be a valuable tool for patients seeking care, as well as for healthcare providers and policymakers seeking to improve the delivery of lung cancer services.

The data used to create this analysis will be gathered from a variety of sources, including publicly available information, healthcare provider websites, and patient surveys. The analysis will be updated periodically to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The goal is to provide an accurate and up-to-date assessment of the lung cancer care environment in Milford.

The analysis will also consider the impact of social determinants of health on lung cancer outcomes. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and food security can significantly influence a patient's ability to access and adhere to treatment. The analysis will assess the extent to which local healthcare providers are addressing these social determinants of health and providing support to patients who face these challenges.

Finally, the analysis will consider the role of community partnerships in supporting lung cancer patients. This includes collaborations with local organizations, such as cancer support groups, advocacy groups, and community health centers. The analysis will assess the extent to which these partnerships are in place and the impact they have on patient care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Milford and surrounding areas, including the distribution of healthcare providers, access to care, and other relevant data points, explore CartoChrome maps.