11369, East Elmhurst, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11369, East Elmhurst, New York is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Queens: A Scorecard for 11369 Residents

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan can feel overwhelming. For residents of the 11369 ZIP code, which encompasses Rego Park and parts of Elmhurst in Queens, New York, access to quality healthcare is paramount. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals near 11369, focusing on breast cancer care, to help patients make informed decisions.

**A Snapshot of the Landscape:**

Queens, a borough known for its diversity, offers a range of healthcare options. Proximity to Manhattan provides additional access to world-renowned institutions. However, local hospitals are often the first point of contact, offering convenience and established relationships within the community. This review will analyze key factors, including hospital ratings, wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities, to provide a comprehensive assessment.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a general indicator of quality. While not solely focused on breast cancer care, these ratings reflect overall hospital performance and can be a useful starting point.

* **NewYork-Presbyterian Queens (88-25 153rd Street, Jamaica, NY 11432):** Located a short distance from 11369, NewYork-Presbyterian Queens is a major player in the region. As part of the NewYork-Presbyterian system, it benefits from the resources and expertise of a larger network. CMS data indicates a 4-star rating. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various metrics, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.
* **Mount Sinai Queens (25-10 30th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11102):** Situated in Astoria, Mount Sinai Queens is another prominent hospital serving the area. Part of the Mount Sinai Health System, it offers access to a broad range of specialties. CMS data indicates a 3-star rating.
* **Long Island Jewish Forest Hills (102-01 66th Road, Forest Hills, NY 11375):** Located within the 11375 ZIP code, Long Island Jewish Forest Hills is a convenient option for 11369 residents. It is part of Northwell Health, a large integrated health system. CMS data indicates a 3-star rating.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

ER wait times can significantly impact the patient experience, particularly in urgent situations. While not directly related to breast cancer treatment, timely access to emergency care is crucial. The data on ER wait times is often dynamic and can vary based on the time of day, day of the week, and overall hospital volume.

* **NewYork-Presbyterian Queens:** Generally, this hospital reports average ER wait times. However, it's advisable to check real-time data through online resources or hospital websites for the most up-to-date information.
* **Mount Sinai Queens:** Mount Sinai Queens' ER wait times are generally comparable to other hospitals in the area. However, it's always wise to check current wait times before heading to the ER.
* **Long Island Jewish Forest Hills:** This hospital's ER wait times are often within the average range for the area. Again, checking real-time data is recommended.

**Specialty Centers and Breast Cancer Programs:**

The presence of specialized breast cancer centers is a key indicator of a hospital's commitment to comprehensive care. These centers typically offer multidisciplinary teams, advanced diagnostic tools, and a range of treatment options.

* **NewYork-Presbyterian Queens:** This hospital has a dedicated breast cancer program, often affiliated with the Weill Cornell Medicine Breast Center. This program offers a comprehensive approach, including screening, diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care. They often have access to clinical trials.
* **Mount Sinai Queens:** Mount Sinai Queens is part of the Mount Sinai Health System, which is known for its robust cancer care programs. They offer a breast cancer center with a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and support staff.
* **Long Island Jewish Forest Hills:** As part of Northwell Health, Long Island Jewish Forest Hills has access to the resources of the Northwell Health Cancer Institute. This institute provides comprehensive breast cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship programs.

**Advanced Diagnostic Tools and Technologies:**

The availability of advanced diagnostic tools is crucial for early detection and accurate staging of breast cancer.

* **Mammography:** All the mentioned hospitals offer mammography services, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of small cancers.
* **Ultrasound:** Ultrasound is often used as a supplementary imaging tool, particularly for women with dense breast tissue. All the hospitals provide ultrasound services.
* **MRI:** Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is used in specific cases, such as for high-risk patients or to assess the extent of the disease. All the hospitals offer breast MRI.
* **Biopsy Capabilities:** Each hospital offers biopsy capabilities, including image-guided biopsies (ultrasound-guided, stereotactic, and MRI-guided) to obtain tissue samples for diagnosis.

**Treatment Options: Surgery, Chemotherapy, and Radiation Therapy:**

The availability of a full range of treatment options is essential for comprehensive breast cancer care.

* **Surgery:** All the hospitals offer surgical options, including lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) and mastectomy. They also provide reconstructive surgery options.
* **Chemotherapy:** Chemotherapy is offered at each hospital, often in dedicated infusion centers.
* **Radiation Therapy:** NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, Mount Sinai Queens, and Long Island Jewish Forest Hills offer radiation therapy services, often with advanced techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).

**Telehealth and Virtual Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and supportive care.

* **NewYork-Presbyterian Queens:** This hospital offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments for oncology consultations and follow-up care. The specific offerings may vary.
* **Mount Sinai Queens:** The Mount Sinai Health System has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments for various specialties, including oncology.
* **Long Island Jewish Forest Hills:** As part of Northwell Health, this hospital provides extensive telehealth options, including virtual consultations, support groups, and remote monitoring programs.

**Patient Experience and Support Services:**

Patient experience and access to support services are crucial aspects of breast cancer care.

* **Support Groups:** All the hospitals offer or facilitate access to support groups for patients and their families. These groups provide emotional support and a sense of community.
* **Patient Navigators:** Many hospitals have patient navigators who help patients navigate the healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and access resources.
* **Counseling Services:** Counseling services are often available to address the emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis.

**Clinical Trials and Research:**

Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to innovative treatments.

* **NewYork-Presbyterian Queens:** As part of a larger system, this hospital may offer access to clinical trials through its affiliation with Weill Cornell Medicine.
* **Mount Sinai Queens:** The Mount Sinai Health System is actively involved in cancer research and often offers clinical trials.
* **Long Island Jewish Forest Hills:** As part of Northwell Health, this hospital has access to a wide range of clinical trials.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations:**

Understanding insurance coverage and financial assistance options is essential.

* **Insurance Acceptance:** All the hospitals accept a wide range of insurance plans. It's crucial to verify coverage with your specific insurance provider.
* **Financial Assistance:** Hospitals often offer financial assistance programs for eligible patients. Contact the hospital's financial services department for more information.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Residents of 11369 should consider the following factors:

* **Proximity and Convenience:** Consider the ease of access to the hospital, including travel time and parking.
* **Physician Preferences:** If you have a preferred oncologist or surgeon, find out where they practice.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Hospital Ratings:** Consider the CMS star ratings as a general indicator of quality.
* **Specialty Center Features:** Evaluate the breast cancer program's offerings, including diagnostic tools, treatment options, and support services.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online reviews and testimonials to get insights into patient experiences.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Assess the hospital's telehealth capabilities for convenience.

**Conclusion:**

The hospitals near the 11369 ZIP code offer a range of options for breast cancer care. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, residents can make informed decisions and find the best possible care for their individual needs. Regular updates on hospital performance and services are essential, so patients should continue to research and evaluate their options throughout their treatment journey.