06785, South Kent, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06785, South Kent, Connecticut is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 06785 has some form of health insurance. 38.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.54 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 06785 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 96 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06785. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 248 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 666 health care providers accessible to residents in 06785, South Kent, Connecticut.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 06785 and Primary Care Availability in South Kent**

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 06785, encompassing South Kent, Connecticut, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, particularly the availability and quality of primary care, a critical entry point for early detection and management. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources, all factors influencing a patient's journey through diagnosis and treatment.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. In ZIP code 06785, the ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial metric. A lower ratio, indicating more PCPs per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments, timely screenings, and proactive management of risk factors like smoking cessation. Conversely, a high ratio can lead to longer wait times, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for conditions like lung cancer. Publicly available data from sources such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards can be used to calculate this ratio. The analysis will consider the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the estimated population to determine the physician-to-patient ratio.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices significantly impact the quality of care. The analysis will examine the presence of practices offering comprehensive services, including on-site diagnostic capabilities such as X-ray or CT scans, which can facilitate quicker initial assessments for suspected lung cancer. Practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems often have access to advanced resources, including specialized pulmonologists, oncology services, and clinical trials, which can be beneficial for patients requiring more complex care. The analysis will also consider the availability of electronic health records (EHRs), which promote seamless information sharing between providers and improve care coordination.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in modern healthcare delivery. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine, and its continued use can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues. The analysis will evaluate the extent to which primary care practices in 06785 offer telemedicine consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual follow-up appointments. Telemedicine can be particularly useful for managing chronic conditions, providing smoking cessation counseling, and offering support to patients undergoing cancer treatment.

The mental health of patients is often overlooked, yet it is a crucial aspect of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health resources within the primary care practices and the broader community. This includes the presence of on-site mental health professionals, referrals to therapists and psychiatrists, and access to support groups. Integrated mental health services can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Identifying standout practices is an important goal of this analysis. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care, early detection, and patient-centered services will be highlighted. This could include practices with a strong track record of lung cancer screening, smoking cessation programs, and patient education initiatives. The analysis will consider factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the use of evidence-based guidelines, and participation in quality improvement programs.

The analysis will also consider the availability of specialists in the broader South Kent area. While primary care is the foundation, access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is essential for patients diagnosed with lung cancer. The proximity of these specialists and the ease of referral pathways will be evaluated. The analysis will consider the presence of hospitals and cancer centers in the region and their capabilities in terms of lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and research.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the socio-economic factors that can influence health outcomes. Factors such as income levels, insurance coverage, and access to transportation can affect a patient's ability to access care. The analysis will consider these factors and their potential impact on lung cancer outcomes in the 06785 ZIP code.

The analysis will also consider the role of community resources in supporting lung cancer patients. This includes the availability of support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and educational programs. These resources can provide valuable information, emotional support, and practical assistance to patients and their families.

The analysis will be based on a combination of publicly available data, including data from government agencies, healthcare directories, and patient reviews. The analysis will also incorporate information from healthcare providers in the 06785 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and accurate assessment of the healthcare landscape and to identify areas for improvement.

The analysis is designed to be a living document, updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The healthcare environment is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and policies emerging. Regular updates will ensure that the analysis remains relevant and useful.

In conclusion, this Lung Cancer Score analysis provides a detailed assessment of the healthcare environment in ZIP code 06785 and the availability of primary care in South Kent. It considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support. The analysis is intended to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers about the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and to identify opportunities to improve lung cancer care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 06785 and the surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, hospitals, and cancer centers, visit CartoChrome maps. This interactive tool allows you to explore the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in South Kent.