The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06854, Norwalk, Connecticut is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 79.87 percent of the residents in 06854 has some form of health insurance. 36.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.87 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 06854 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 7,163 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06854. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,953 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,666 health care providers accessible to residents in 06854, Norwalk, Connecticut.
Health Scores in 06854, Norwalk, Connecticut
Lung Cancer Score | 55 |
---|---|
People Score | 6 |
Provider Score | 78 |
Hospital Score | 42 |
Travel Score | 73 |
06854 | Norwalk | Connecticut | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
The analysis below focuses on lung cancer care within ZIP code 06854 (Norwalk, Connecticut), evaluating physician resources, primary care accessibility, and related support systems. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local landscape for patients and healthcare providers, culminating in a call to action for advanced mapping solutions.
The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on a robust primary care infrastructure. In Norwalk, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts early detection and timely referrals, crucial elements in improving patient outcomes. Assessing primary care availability involves examining physician-to-patient ratios. While precise figures fluctuate, a higher ratio (fewer patients per PCP) generally indicates better access. Publicly available data from sources like the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, when combined, can offer an estimate of this ratio within 06854. This data provides a baseline understanding of the community's capacity to handle patient needs.
Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs across the city is critical. Are primary care practices concentrated in certain areas, potentially leaving underserved populations? Factors like transportation access and proximity to public transit are vital considerations. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers significantly impacts access for low-income individuals and those lacking insurance. These centers often offer comprehensive services, including preventative screenings and care coordination, that are essential for early lung cancer detection.
Once a patient receives a diagnosis, the availability of specialized care becomes paramount. This necessitates an examination of the pulmonology and oncology resources within and near Norwalk. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists is a key indicator of the quality of care available. The number of these specialists, coupled with their experience and affiliations with reputable hospitals, forms the core of the specialist care assessment.
The proximity of these specialists to primary care practices is also a critical factor. Efficient referral pathways and close collaboration between PCPs and specialists improve the patient experience and streamline care. This collaboration can be measured by the number of referrals, the time it takes for a patient to see a specialist, and the frequency of communication between providers.
Certain practices within 06854 may stand out due to their comprehensive approach to lung cancer care. These standout practices often integrate advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scans for early detection, and offer multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists. These practices might also participate in clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments. Identifying these standout practices requires a detailed review of their services, patient outcomes, and community reputation.
Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The availability of telehealth consultations for both primary care and specialist visits can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the ease of use of the telehealth platforms, and the integration of telehealth into the overall care workflow.
Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common among patients. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Assessing mental health resource availability involves examining the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services they offer, and the accessibility of these services to patients with lung cancer.
The integration of mental health services into the oncology care model is particularly beneficial. This can involve embedded mental health professionals within oncology practices or close collaboration between oncology and mental health providers. Such integration ensures that patients receive holistic care, addressing both their physical and emotional needs.
Furthermore, the availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations plays a crucial role in providing emotional support and practical assistance to patients and their families. These organizations offer valuable resources, including educational materials, peer support, and advocacy for improved lung cancer care.
The quality of lung cancer care is not solely determined by the number of physicians or the availability of specialists. It also depends on the overall healthcare environment. This includes factors such as the quality of hospitals, the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, and the efficiency of the healthcare system.
Hospitals in the area should have dedicated oncology units equipped with the latest technology, including advanced imaging systems, radiation therapy equipment, and surgical facilities. The presence of multidisciplinary tumor boards, where specialists from different disciplines collaborate to develop individualized treatment plans, is a sign of high-quality care.
The efficiency of the healthcare system is also a factor. This includes the time it takes for patients to receive appointments, the ease of navigating the healthcare system, and the availability of care coordination services. Effective care coordination ensures that patients receive the right care at the right time and that their care is seamless and coordinated.
In conclusion, assessing lung cancer care in Norwalk (06854) requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing primary care access, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall healthcare environment. This analysis reveals the complex interplay of factors that contribute to the quality of care.
To visualize and understand the spatial distribution of these resources and the relationships between them, advanced mapping solutions are essential. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can integrate data on physician locations, patient demographics, healthcare facilities, and other relevant factors. These maps can help identify areas with limited access to care, pinpoint gaps in services, and facilitate data-driven decision-making for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients.
Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the lung cancer care landscape in Norwalk and beyond. Visit our website today to learn more and request a demonstration.
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