06787, Thomaston, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06787, Thomaston, Connecticut is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.01 percent of the residents in 06787 has some form of health insurance. 31.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.16 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 06787 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,722 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06787. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,273 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 702 health care providers accessible to residents in 06787, Thomaston, Connecticut.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 06787 and Primary Care Availability in Thomaston**

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 06787, encompassing Thomaston, Connecticut, and evaluates the availability of primary care resources within the town itself. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare ecosystem, focusing on factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which significantly impact the quality and accessibility of care for individuals facing the challenges of lung cancer.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In ZIP code 06787, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial. A low ratio, meaning a smaller number of doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Accurate data on this ratio is often challenging to obtain at the ZIP code level, requiring analysis of local healthcare networks, insurance provider directories, and publicly available data from state health departments. This data, when available, allows a more precise understanding of the accessibility of care.

The presence of standout practices is another key factor. These practices, often characterized by their commitment to patient-centered care, advanced diagnostic capabilities, and innovative treatment approaches, can significantly elevate the standard of care within a community. Identifying such practices involves evaluating their reputation, patient reviews, the breadth of services offered, and their integration of multidisciplinary teams, which are vital in the complex management of lung cancer. These teams often include pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and nurses, all working collaboratively to provide comprehensive care.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important. It offers the potential to improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The use of telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring can reduce the burden on patients and improve their ability to adhere to treatment plans. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption involves examining the practices’ technology infrastructure, the types of services offered remotely, and patient satisfaction with these services.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The emotional and psychological toll of the disease, including anxiety, depression, and fear, can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and adherence to treatment. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology, is a critical component of comprehensive care. Evaluating the availability of these resources involves assessing the presence of mental health providers within the local healthcare network, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan.

In Thomaston, specifically, primary care availability is crucial. Primary care physicians serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventive care, screening for lung cancer, and referring patients to specialists when necessary. The presence of a strong primary care network is essential for early detection, which is a critical factor in improving survival rates. The analysis must assess the number of PCPs in Thomaston, their availability, and their commitment to preventive care, including lung cancer screening.

The analysis also needs to consider the types of diagnostic and treatment facilities available in the area. Access to advanced imaging technologies, such as CT scans and PET scans, is essential for accurate diagnosis and staging of lung cancer. The availability of treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, is also crucial. The presence of these facilities within the local healthcare network can significantly impact the convenience and accessibility of care for patients.

The analysis also investigates the integration of palliative care services. Palliative care focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. It can be provided alongside curative treatment and can improve the quality of life for patients and their families. Assessing the availability of palliative care services involves evaluating the presence of specialized palliative care teams within the local healthcare network and the availability of hospice care services.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the availability of patient support programs. These programs, often offered by cancer centers and patient advocacy organizations, provide valuable resources and support to patients and their families. These programs can include support groups, educational materials, financial assistance, and transportation services. The presence of these programs can help patients navigate the challenges of lung cancer and improve their overall well-being.

The analysis requires gathering data from various sources, including healthcare provider directories, insurance provider websites, patient reviews, and publicly available data from state health departments and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This data is then analyzed to create a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 06787 and Thomaston, Connecticut. The analysis should identify strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare system and provide recommendations for improvement.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" analysis would be a nuanced assessment, taking into account the factors mentioned above. It would offer a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to improve the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in the community. The score itself is not a simple number but a composite evaluation of the entire healthcare ecosystem, highlighting areas of excellence and areas where improvement is needed.

For a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of ZIP code 06787 and to visualize the data discussed, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can help you visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available in your area.