11357, Whitestone, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11357, Whitestone, New York is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Options Near Flushing, NY (11357)

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is an overwhelming experience. Finding the right medical care is paramount. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals near Flushing, NY (ZIP code 11357), focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer treatment, including hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility. This is not medical advice; always consult with your physician.

**Hospital Landscape Overview**

The area surrounding Flushing, NY, offers a diverse range of hospitals, from large, nationally recognized institutions to community hospitals. Proximity is a significant factor, but the quality of care, specialized services, and patient experience should be prioritized. This review will examine the prominent hospitals in the vicinity, focusing on data readily available to the public.

**Key Players: Flagship Hospitals**

Several hospitals stand out due to their size, reputation, and comprehensive services. These institutions often house dedicated breast cancer centers and offer a wider range of treatment options.

**NewYork-Presbyterian Queens (Flushing, NY):** Located directly within the 11357 ZIP code, NewYork-Presbyterian Queens is a major player. This hospital is a part of the larger NewYork-Presbyterian system, affiliated with Weill Cornell Medicine. It is a large, acute care facility with a significant presence in the community.

* **CMS Star Rating:** NewYork-Presbyterian Queens currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality based on various measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** The hospital boasts a dedicated Breast Center, offering a multidisciplinary approach to care. This typically includes surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery. Specific details on the center's accreditations (e.g., NAPBC accreditation) and the number of breast cancer cases treated annually are crucial for assessing expertise and experience. This information can often be found on the hospital's website or through direct inquiry.
* **ER Wait Times:** Average ER wait times are a key indicator of accessibility. Information on wait times can be found on websites like the hospital's own, or third-party sites like Healthgrades. Longer wait times can be a concern, especially in emergencies.
* **Telehealth:** The availability of telehealth services is increasingly important. Patients may appreciate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring options. Check the hospital website for details on telehealth offerings, including the types of services available and the ease of access.

**Long Island Jewish Medical Center (New Hyde Park, NY):** Located a short distance from Flushing, LIJ Medical Center, part of Northwell Health, is a large, tertiary care hospital. It is a major referral center for complex medical cases.

* **CMS Star Rating:** LIJ Medical Center also holds a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** LIJ Medical Center is home to the Katz Women's Hospital, which is a dedicated center for women's health, including breast cancer care. It is likely to have a comprehensive breast cancer program with a multidisciplinary team. The hospital's website should detail specific accreditations, the range of treatment options (e.g., clinical trials), and the expertise of its specialists.
* **ER Wait Times:** As with NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, ER wait times are a key metric.
* **Telehealth:** Northwell Health has a significant telehealth presence. Investigate the specific telehealth options available for breast cancer patients, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and educational resources.

**Other Hospitals in the Vicinity**

Several other hospitals are within reasonable driving distance of Flushing, NY, offering additional options for breast cancer care.

**Mount Sinai Hospital (Manhattan, NY):** While located in Manhattan, Mount Sinai Hospital is a renowned institution with a strong reputation. The drive from Flushing may be longer, but the hospital's specialized services and expertise could be a significant draw for some patients.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Mount Sinai Hospital has a 4-star rating from CMS.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** Mount Sinai has a dedicated cancer center, and its breast cancer program is likely to be highly specialized. Investigate its accreditations, the types of treatments offered, and the availability of clinical trials.
* **ER Wait Times:** Check the hospital's website or third-party sources for ER wait time information.
* **Telehealth:** Mount Sinai likely offers telehealth services. Explore the options available for breast cancer patients.

**Flushing Hospital Medical Center (Flushing, NY):** This community hospital is located in Flushing, NY.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Flushing Hospital Medical Center has a 2-star rating from CMS.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** Investigate the hospital's breast cancer program, including the services offered and the expertise of the specialists.
* **ER Wait Times:** Check the hospital's website or third-party sources for ER wait time information.
* **Telehealth:** Explore the options available for breast cancer patients.

**St. John's Episcopal Hospital (Far Rockaway, NY):** This hospital is located in Far Rockaway, NY.

* **CMS Star Rating:** St. John's Episcopal Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** Investigate the hospital's breast cancer program, including the services offered and the expertise of the specialists.
* **ER Wait Times:** Check the hospital's website or third-party sources for ER wait time information.
* **Telehealth:** Explore the options available for breast cancer patients.

**Evaluating Key Factors for Breast Cancer Care**

When choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment, several factors are crucial.

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by organizations like the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). This accreditation signifies that the hospital meets specific standards for breast cancer care.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** A multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and support staff, is essential for comprehensive care.
* **Treatment Options:** The hospital should offer a full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider patient reviews, testimonials, and the hospital's overall reputation for patient satisfaction.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and rehabilitation services.
* **Technology:** Advanced imaging technology (e.g., 3D mammography, MRI) and radiation therapy techniques (e.g., IMRT, proton therapy) can improve outcomes.

**Accessibility and Convenience**

While quality of care is paramount, accessibility and convenience are also important. Consider:

* **Proximity:** How far is the hospital from your home?
* **Transportation:** Is public transportation readily available? Is parking convenient?
* **Appointment Availability:** How easy is it to schedule appointments with specialists?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital accept your insurance plan?

**Telehealth's Growing Role**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in breast cancer care. Look for hospitals that offer:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Consultations with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists via video.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Remote monitoring of vital signs and symptoms.
* **Educational Resources:** Online educational materials and support groups.
* **Follow-up Appointments:** Virtual follow-up appointments after treatment.

**Data Sources and Limitations**

This review relies on publicly available data from sources like CMS, hospital websites, and third-party healthcare rating websites. It's important to note that:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** While helpful, CMS star ratings are just one measure of hospital quality.
* **Data Updates:** Data can change frequently. Always verify information directly with the hospitals.
* **Individual Needs:** This review provides general information. Your individual needs and preferences should guide your decision-making process.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can fluctuate.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a significant decision. This review provides a starting point for evaluating hospitals near Flushing, NY (11357), focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer care. Researching the specific services offered by each hospital, considering your individual needs, and consulting with your physician are essential steps in making an informed decision. Remember to prioritize quality of care, specialized services, and patient experience.