11743, Huntington, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11743, Huntington, New York is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near ZIP Code 11743

Living in or near ZIP code 11743, which encompasses parts of Islip, New York, means access to a range of healthcare facilities, including those specializing in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This review analyzes key hospitals in the area, focusing on their breast cancer services, quality metrics, and accessibility, helping patients make informed decisions about their care.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

One of the most prominent healthcare providers in the region is **Stony Brook University Hospital**, located a short distance from 11743. As a flagship hospital, it boasts a Level I Trauma Center and a comprehensive cancer program. While specific CMS star ratings can fluctuate, it's crucial to check the latest data on the CMS Hospital Compare website. These ratings provide a snapshot of overall hospital quality, encompassing areas like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. Stony Brook's cancer center offers a multidisciplinary approach, integrating medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care services.

**Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center** in West Islip, also within reasonable proximity, is another key player. Again, checking the most current CMS star rating is essential. Good Samaritan is known for its robust women's health services, including a dedicated breast health center. It's important to investigate the specific accreditations and certifications held by their breast cancer program, such as those from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC).

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor, particularly for patients experiencing symptoms or needing immediate care. While wait times can vary significantly based on the time of day, day of the week, and overall hospital volume, it's essential to research average wait times for both Stony Brook University Hospital and Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center. Websites like ProPublica's Hospital Compare and local health department websites often provide this information. Shorter wait times can translate to quicker access to diagnostic testing and treatment initiation, which is especially crucial in breast cancer cases.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise**

Beyond general hospital services, specialized breast cancer centers offer a concentrated focus on diagnosis, treatment, and support. Both Stony Brook and Good Samaritan have dedicated breast health centers. These centers often feature a team of specialists, including breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and specialized nurses. They often have advanced imaging capabilities, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and breast MRI, which can improve the accuracy of early detection.

**Stony Brook Cancer Center** is a major regional referral center, offering a wide range of clinical trials and access to cutting-edge therapies. Patients seeking innovative treatment options may find this particularly valuable. They are likely to have a dedicated breast cancer research program, which can be a significant advantage.

**Good Samaritan's Breast Health Center** provides a more community-focused approach, emphasizing patient education and support services. It's vital to investigate the specific services offered by each center, including genetic counseling, survivorship programs, and support groups.

**Diagnostic Capabilities and Technology**

The availability of advanced diagnostic technology is crucial for accurate and timely breast cancer detection. Both hospitals likely offer digital mammography, which is the standard of care. However, it's important to confirm the availability of 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which has been shown to improve detection rates and reduce false positives.

Other essential diagnostic tools include breast ultrasound, used to evaluate suspicious findings on mammograms, and breast MRI, which is particularly helpful for women at high risk of breast cancer or those with dense breast tissue. Confirm the availability of these technologies and the expertise of the radiologists interpreting the images.

**Treatment Options and Surgical Expertise**

Breast cancer treatment options vary depending on the stage and type of cancer. Surgical expertise is paramount. Investigate the experience and qualifications of the breast surgeons at each hospital. Ask about their experience with different surgical techniques, such as lumpectomy, mastectomy, and sentinel lymph node biopsy.

Radiation therapy is another critical component of breast cancer treatment. Confirm the availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), which can help to minimize side effects.

Medical oncology involves the use of chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapies. Investigate the availability of these treatments at each hospital and the experience of the medical oncologists. Access to clinical trials is another important consideration, as it can provide patients with access to innovative therapies.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support services. Investigate the telehealth capabilities of both hospitals. Do they offer virtual appointments with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists? Are there virtual support groups or educational resources available? Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of healthcare quality. Review patient satisfaction scores on websites like the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS). These scores provide insights into patient experiences with communication, responsiveness, and overall care.

Read patient reviews and testimonials to get a better understanding of the hospital's culture and the quality of care provided. Consider the hospital's commitment to patient education and support services, such as patient navigators who can help guide patients through the complex healthcare system.

**Accreditation and Certifications**

Accreditation and certifications from reputable organizations indicate a hospital's commitment to quality and safety. Look for accreditation from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC) for cancer programs. This certification signifies that the hospital meets rigorous standards for cancer care.

Other relevant certifications include those from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), which indicates a commitment to providing comprehensive breast care services.

**Financial Considerations**

Healthcare costs can be a significant concern for patients. Investigate the hospital's billing practices and whether they accept your insurance plan. Inquire about the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who may have difficulty paying for their care.

**Community Resources and Support**

Beyond the hospitals, there are various community resources and support services available to breast cancer patients in the 11743 area. These include support groups, educational programs, and financial assistance programs. Research local organizations that provide these services. The American Cancer Society and the National Breast Cancer Foundation are good places to start.

**Making the Decision**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and priorities. Take the time to research the hospitals in the area, compare their services, and speak with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers.

By carefully evaluating the factors discussed in this review, patients near ZIP code 11743 can make informed decisions about their breast cancer care and access the best possible treatment and support. Remember to regularly check for updated information on CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and other relevant metrics.