06365, Preston, Connecticut Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 06365, Preston, Connecticut is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.42 percent of the residents in 06365 has some form of health insurance. 33.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.43 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 06365 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 981 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06365. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 895 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,853 health care providers accessible to residents in 06365, Preston, Connecticut.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Preston, CT (06365)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the town of Preston, Connecticut (ZIP code 06365), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, explore the adoption of telemedicine, and assess the availability of mental health resources. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape within Preston, offering insights into its strengths and areas for potential improvement.

Preston, a relatively small town in New London County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's rural character influences the distribution and availability of medical services. Understanding these dynamics is crucial to accurately assessing the overall health score.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

A critical metric in evaluating healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio reflects the number of primary care physicians available to serve the population. Unfortunately, obtaining precise, real-time data for a specific ZIP code can be challenging due to data privacy regulations and the dynamic nature of physician staffing. However, we can make informed estimates based on publicly available data from state and federal sources, combined with information from healthcare directories and insurance provider networks.

Generally, a higher physician-to-patient ratio suggests better access to primary care. A ratio that is significantly higher than the national or state average might indicate a shortage of physicians, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased pressure on existing healthcare providers. Conversely, a lower ratio may indicate a more favorable situation, with greater accessibility.

Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio in Preston requires considering the surrounding areas. Residents may seek care outside the town limits, impacting the effective ratio. This necessitates an assessment of the availability of primary care physicians in neighboring towns and cities, such as Norwich and Griswold, to understand the broader healthcare ecosystem that serves Preston's population.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout primary care practices involves evaluating several factors, including patient satisfaction, the range of services offered, and the adoption of innovative healthcare technologies. While specific practice names are not provided due to the limitations of this analysis, we can discuss general characteristics of high-performing practices.

Practices that prioritize patient-centered care often receive high marks. This includes providing convenient appointment scheduling, offering extended hours, and fostering strong communication between physicians and patients. Practices that actively engage in preventative care, such as offering regular checkups, screenings, and health education programs, are also highly valued.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important indicator. EHRs enable practices to efficiently manage patient information, coordinate care with specialists, and improve the accuracy of medical records. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively are often better equipped to provide comprehensive and coordinated care.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. It allows patients to access medical consultations and follow-up appointments remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The adoption of telemedicine in Preston is a key factor in assessing its overall health score.

The level of telemedicine adoption varies among primary care practices. Some practices may offer virtual visits for routine checkups and medication refills, while others may be less equipped to provide these services. Factors influencing telemedicine adoption include the availability of reliable internet access, the willingness of physicians to embrace new technologies, and the reimbursement policies of insurance providers.

Increased telemedicine adoption can improve access to care, especially for patients who have difficulty traveling or who live in remote areas. It can also reduce the burden on emergency rooms and urgent care centers.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health resources in Preston is a crucial component of the overall health score assessment. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, and other mental health professionals.

Access to mental health services can be a challenge, particularly in rural areas. Factors contributing to this challenge include a shortage of mental health providers, stigma associated with mental illness, and limited insurance coverage. The availability of mental health support groups, community mental health centers, and school-based mental health services can also impact the overall health score.

The integration of mental health services with primary care is an important trend. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or that have established referral networks with mental health providers are better positioned to address the mental health needs of their patients.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion:**

Based on the factors discussed above, the overall health score for Preston, CT (06365) is determined by a complex interplay of factors. While the precise score cannot be quantified within the limitations of this assessment, the analysis suggests that the town's rural nature may present challenges in terms of physician availability and access to specialized services. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services are critical areas for improvement.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Preston, it is essential to access and analyze comprehensive data. This includes information on physician-to-patient ratios, the services offered by local practices, the availability of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources.

**Call to Action:**

For a more visual and interactive exploration of the healthcare landscape in Preston and surrounding areas, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a spatial representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to visualize physician locations, hospital access, and other relevant data points. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access and availability in your community.