06708, Waterbury, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06708, Waterbury, Connecticut is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.03 percent of the residents in 06708 has some form of health insurance. 48.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.78 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 06708 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,281 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06708. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,083 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 608 health care providers accessible to residents in 06708, Waterbury, Connecticut.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Waterbury, CT (ZIP Code 06708)**

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians practicing within the 06708 ZIP code, focusing on factors relevant to early detection, treatment, and overall patient support. The evaluation considers physician availability, practice characteristics, and the broader healthcare ecosystem in Waterbury, Connecticut. The goal is to offer insights into the quality of care available to individuals at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer, emphasizing areas of strength and opportunities for improvement.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management is access to quality primary care. Early detection through screening, risk assessment, and timely referrals are crucial. Therefore, this analysis places significant weight on the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians within the specified geographic area. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater access to care, improving the chances of early intervention. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards is used to estimate these ratios.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices are examined. Practices that actively promote and facilitate lung cancer screening, particularly for high-risk individuals (e.g., current or former smokers), receive a higher score. This includes assessing whether practices adhere to the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines for lung cancer screening. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for efficient data sharing and coordinated care is also considered. Practices with robust EHR systems can facilitate seamless communication between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers, leading to better patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically underserved areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies are given a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The availability of telehealth options can also be crucial in managing the mental health needs of lung cancer patients.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is a significant component of the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established strong referral networks to mental health professionals receive a higher score. This includes assessing the availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology.

Specific practices within the 06708 ZIP code are evaluated based on the criteria outlined above. While specific practice names cannot be disclosed in this general analysis, the evaluation considers factors such as the presence of board-certified physicians, the availability of extended office hours, and the practice’s overall patient satisfaction ratings. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, proactive screening, and comprehensive support services are recognized as standout performers. These practices are often characterized by a multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists.

The broader healthcare ecosystem in Waterbury also influences the Lung Cancer Score. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center, offering advanced diagnostic and treatment options, is a positive factor. The proximity of these resources can significantly impact patient outcomes. The availability of support services, such as patient navigation programs, financial assistance, and transportation services, is also considered. These services can help patients navigate the complexities of cancer care and reduce the burden of treatment.

The analysis also acknowledges the challenges faced by the healthcare system in Waterbury. Factors such as socioeconomic disparities, access to transportation, and insurance coverage can impact access to care and patient outcomes. The Lung Cancer Score considers these factors and assesses the efforts of primary care practices to address these challenges. This includes evaluating the practice’s commitment to serving underserved populations and providing culturally competent care.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the lung cancer care landscape in Waterbury, Connecticut. It highlights the importance of accessible primary care, proactive screening, and comprehensive support services. By assessing the factors discussed above, the Lung Cancer Score provides a framework for evaluating the quality of care available to individuals at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer. The goal is to empower patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to encourage healthcare providers to continuously improve the quality of care they provide.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in Waterbury, including the geographic distribution of physicians, access to resources, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.