11420, South Ozone Park, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11420, South Ozone Park, New York is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape Near ZIP Code 11420

Finding the right healthcare, especially when facing a diagnosis like breast cancer, is a critical undertaking. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals near ZIP code 11420 (Jamaica, Queens, New York), focusing on key factors relevant to breast cancer care, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to equip individuals with information to make informed decisions about their care.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The area surrounding 11420 offers a diverse range of healthcare options, from large, established hospitals to smaller, specialized clinics. Proximity is a significant factor, but the quality of care, expertise, and available resources should be prioritized. This review will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of several key institutions.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings provide a publicly available, easily digestible overview of hospital performance. These ratings, ranging from one to five stars, are based on various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

**Jamaica Hospital Medical Center:** Located within the 11420 ZIP code, Jamaica Hospital Medical Center is a major player in the local healthcare ecosystem. While CMS star ratings can fluctuate, it's essential to check the most current rating on the CMS Hospital Compare website. Jamaica Hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including a breast cancer program. Prospective patients should investigate the specific services offered, including surgical options, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, and compare them to their individual needs.

**Queens Hospital Center:** Another prominent hospital in the area, Queens Hospital Center, also warrants consideration. Similar to Jamaica Hospital, the current CMS star rating should be verified. Queens Hospital Center often serves a diverse patient population and provides a wide array of medical services. Its breast cancer program should be evaluated for its scope, including the availability of multidisciplinary care teams, which are crucial for comprehensive breast cancer treatment.

**Exploring ER Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, especially when dealing with urgent medical concerns. Shorter wait times can translate to quicker access to diagnosis and treatment.

**Jamaica Hospital Medical Center:** Average ER wait times at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center are publicly available and can be found on websites like the CMS Hospital Compare site. It is important to note that wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall volume of patients.

**Queens Hospital Center:** Similar to Jamaica Hospital, ER wait times for Queens Hospital Center can be found through public resources. Patients should consider the average wait times and compare them to other facilities in the area.

**Specialty Centers and Breast Cancer Expertise:**

Specialized breast cancer centers often offer a more focused and comprehensive approach to care. These centers typically have dedicated teams of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and nurses, all working collaboratively.

**Jamaica Hospital Medical Center:** Jamaica Hospital's breast cancer program should be thoroughly investigated. Inquire about the availability of specialized breast surgeons, the types of surgical procedures offered (e.g., lumpectomy, mastectomy, sentinel node biopsy), and the availability of advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography and breast MRI.

**Queens Hospital Center:** Queens Hospital Center's breast cancer program should be scrutinized for its specialized services. Determine whether it offers a multidisciplinary approach, including access to medical oncologists specializing in breast cancer treatment, radiation oncologists, and support services such as genetic counseling and patient navigation.

**Additional Considerations for Specialty Centers:**

* **Accreditation:** Look for accreditation from organizations like the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). Accreditation signifies that the center meets specific standards for quality and patient care.
* **Clinical Trials:** Does the center participate in clinical trials? Participation in clinical trials can provide access to the latest treatment options.
* **Support Services:** What support services are available? These can include support groups, counseling, and survivorship programs.

**Telehealth Capabilities: Expanding Access to Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring.

**Jamaica Hospital Medical Center:** Investigate the telehealth capabilities of Jamaica Hospital. Does it offer virtual consultations with oncologists, breast surgeons, or other specialists? Are there options for remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment?

**Queens Hospital Center:** Evaluate the telehealth services offered by Queens Hospital Center. Determine if it provides virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring, and access to educational resources online.

**Other Hospitals to Consider (Outside 11420, but within reasonable distance):**

While the focus is on hospitals near 11420, it's crucial to consider facilities slightly further afield if they offer superior care or specialized services.

**Long Island Jewish Medical Center (LIJ):** Located in nearby New Hyde Park, LIJ is a major medical center affiliated with Northwell Health. LIJ often boasts a strong reputation for cancer care. Check the CMS star rating, ER wait times, and, most importantly, the specifics of their breast cancer program. Investigate the availability of specialized breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and the range of treatment options.

**Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) – Commuting Considerations:** While not immediately local, MSKCC is a world-renowned cancer center with multiple locations. The commute from 11420 would be a significant consideration, but the potential for access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials might be worth exploring for some patients.

**St. John's Episcopal Hospital:** Located in Far Rockaway, St. John's Episcopal Hospital may offer breast cancer services. Its proximity to 11420 could be a factor for some patients. Evaluate its CMS star rating, ER wait times, and the specifics of its breast cancer program.

**Key Questions to Ask:**

When evaluating hospitals and breast cancer programs, ask these key questions:

* **What is the experience of the breast surgeons?** How many breast cancer surgeries do they perform annually?
* **What types of imaging technologies are available?** (e.g., 3D mammography, breast MRI)
* **What types of surgical options are offered?** (e.g., lumpectomy, mastectomy, reconstructive surgery)
* **What types of radiation therapy are available?** (e.g., external beam radiation, brachytherapy)
* **What chemotherapy regimens are used?** Are there access to clinical trials?
* **Is there a multidisciplinary team approach to care?**
* **What support services are available?** (e.g., genetic counseling, patient navigation, support groups)
* **What are the hospital's infection control practices?**
* **What is the hospital's patient satisfaction rating?**

**Making an Informed Decision:**

Choosing a hospital and breast cancer program is a deeply personal decision. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and the specific characteristics of each institution. Research thoroughly, ask questions, and don't hesitate to seek second opinions. By gathering comprehensive information and carefully evaluating your options, you can make an informed decision that supports your best possible outcome. Remember to always verify the most current information, including CMS star ratings and ER wait times, on the relevant websites.