06790, Torrington, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06790, Torrington, Connecticut is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.28 percent of the residents in 06790 has some form of health insurance. 43.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.01 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 06790 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,468 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06790. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,392 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 550 health care providers accessible to residents in 06790, Torrington, Connecticut.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 06790 and Primary Care Availability in Torrington**

This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare, specifically focusing on lung cancer considerations, within ZIP code 06790 (Torrington, Connecticut) and the broader primary care environment in the city. The goal is to provide a nuanced 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment, considering factors relevant to patient access, quality of care, and overall health outcomes. The analysis will touch upon physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, the utilization of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which are crucial in a patient's journey, especially when facing a serious diagnosis like lung cancer.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care pathway is robust primary care. Early detection, timely referrals, and ongoing support are vital. Examining the primary care availability in Torrington, we must consider the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer primary care physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings or diagnostic procedures. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can be used to determine the physician-to-patient ratio in Torrington. This data is dynamic and can fluctuate, so the most current information must be sought. A low ratio would negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score.

Furthermore, the geographic distribution of primary care practices within 06790 is critical. Are practices concentrated in certain areas, potentially creating access challenges for residents in more remote parts of the ZIP code? Transportation limitations, especially for elderly patients or those with mobility issues, can exacerbate these challenges. The analysis must consider the accessibility of these practices, including public transportation options and parking availability.

The quality of care provided by primary care physicians is another key element. The analysis should assess the practices' adherence to evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Are they actively recommending low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients, particularly those with a significant smoking history? Do they have established referral pathways to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists? Practices demonstrating proactive screening and referral practices would receive a higher score.

Several practices in Torrington may stand out based on their commitment to comprehensive patient care. These practices may have dedicated patient navigators to guide patients through the healthcare system, helping them schedule appointments, understand treatment options, and access financial assistance. They may also have a strong focus on patient education, providing resources on lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. The Lung Cancer Score would be positively influenced by practices that have demonstrated a commitment to patient-centered care.

Telemedicine adoption is another important factor. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients who live far from medical facilities or who have mobility limitations. It can also facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, reducing the need for travel. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow, offering virtual appointments for follow-up care, medication management, and even initial consultations, would be viewed favorably in the Lung Cancer Score.

Mental health resources are also an integral part of a comprehensive healthcare system. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health services in Torrington, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that have integrated mental health services into their care model, either through on-site providers or partnerships with external mental health professionals, would receive a higher score. The availability of support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families is particularly important.

The presence of any specialized lung cancer treatment centers within or near Torrington would significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach to care, with a team of pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists working together to develop individualized treatment plans. The proximity of these centers, and the ease of access for patients in 06790, would be a major positive factor.

The analysis will also consider the availability of palliative care services. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, by addressing their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Access to palliative care can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients, helping them manage symptoms, cope with the side effects of treatment, and make informed decisions about their care.

The Lung Cancer Score would be a composite of all these factors, weighted based on their relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and adherence to screening guidelines might be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption, although all factors contribute to the overall assessment. The final score would provide a snapshot of the healthcare environment in Torrington, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in relation to lung cancer care.

In conclusion, assessing the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 06790 and the broader Torrington area requires a comprehensive approach. The Lung Cancer Score is not just about the number of doctors; it’s about the quality of care, the accessibility of services, and the availability of resources to support patients throughout their journey. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the complexities of lung cancer care within this specific geographic area.

For a more detailed visual representation of physician locations, primary care access, and other relevant data points, consider exploring the mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome's interactive maps can offer an insightful perspective on the healthcare landscape in Torrington, allowing for a deeper understanding of the factors discussed in this analysis.