11952, Mattituck, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 11952, Mattituck, New York is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Options Near Southampton, NY (ZIP Code 11952)

Finding the right hospital for breast cancer treatment is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Southampton, NY (ZIP code 11952), offering a fact-rich assessment to help you navigate your options. We’ll examine key factors, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, providing a snapshot of the available resources. This is not an endorsement, but rather a compilation of publicly available data to inform your choices.

**Proximity and Initial Considerations:**

The geographic location of Southampton, NY, places residents within a relatively manageable distance of several prominent healthcare institutions. While smaller community hospitals exist closer, the most comprehensive breast cancer care often resides in larger, more specialized facilities. This review will prioritize those options, acknowledging that travel time and personal preferences play a significant role in the final decision.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality metrics. These ratings offer a general overview of hospital performance, though they are not the sole determinant of quality.

**Stony Brook University Hospital:** Located approximately an hour west of Southampton, Stony Brook University Hospital is a major contender. It boasts a high CMS star rating, reflecting its overall performance across various quality indicators. Stony Brook’s Cancer Center is a significant asset, offering a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care. They offer a range of services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care services.

**Northwell Health System (Multiple Locations):** Northwell Health is a large, integrated health system with several hospitals within a reasonable distance. Their flagship hospital, North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset (approximately a 1.5-hour drive), consistently receives high CMS star ratings. Northwell's Katz Women's Hospital is a dedicated women's health center, providing comprehensive breast cancer services.

**Other Northwell Facilities:** Other Northwell hospitals to consider include Huntington Hospital and Peconic Bay Medical Center. Huntington Hospital is closer to Southampton and has a strong reputation for community care. Peconic Bay Medical Center, located in Riverhead, offers a more local option. CMS star ratings may vary between these facilities, so it's essential to research individual hospital performance.

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Consideration:**

Emergency room wait times can be a useful indicator of a hospital's overall efficiency and resource allocation. While not directly related to breast cancer care, long wait times can be frustrating and potentially impact access to timely treatment for related complications.

**Stony Brook University Hospital:** As a Level I Trauma Center, Stony Brook typically experiences higher ER volumes. Publicly available data on ER wait times should be consulted.

**Northwell Health Hospitals:** Northwell facilities, including North Shore University Hospital and Huntington Hospital, often report ER wait times. These times can fluctuate based on the time of day, day of the week, and overall patient volume. Check the most recent data available from sources like the CMS or hospital websites.

**Specialty Centers and Breast Cancer Expertise:**

The presence of dedicated breast cancer centers is a strong indicator of a hospital's commitment to specialized care. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurses, all focused on breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

**Stony Brook Cancer Center:** As mentioned, Stony Brook's Cancer Center is a major draw. They provide advanced diagnostic imaging, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and offer a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials.

**Northwell Health's Katz Women's Hospital:** The Katz Women's Hospital at North Shore University Hospital is a dedicated center with a strong focus on breast cancer care. They offer comprehensive services, including advanced imaging, surgical options (including breast reconstruction), medical oncology, and radiation oncology.

**Other Specialty Considerations:**

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC). This accreditation signifies adherence to specific quality standards.
* **Genetic Counseling:** Access to genetic counseling and testing is crucial for patients with a family history of breast cancer. Confirm whether the hospital offers these services.
* **Support Services:** Comprehensive breast cancer care includes support services like physical therapy, psychological counseling, and support groups. Inquire about the availability of these resources.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring. This can be especially beneficial for patients living in more rural areas or those with mobility issues.

**Stony Brook University Hospital:** Stony Brook has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs. Check their website for specific telehealth services related to breast cancer care.

**Northwell Health:** Northwell has a robust telehealth platform, providing virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and access to specialists. Explore their telehealth options for breast cancer patients.

**Access to Clinical Trials:**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in breast cancer care. Inquire about the availability of clinical trials at each hospital.

**Stony Brook Cancer Center:** Stony Brook often participates in clinical trials, offering patients access to innovative therapies.

**Northwell Health:** Northwell Health has a strong research program and often participates in clinical trials.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations:**

Verify that the hospital accepts your health insurance plan. Inquire about the hospital's financial assistance programs and payment options. The hospital's billing department can provide detailed information.

**Navigating the System: Key Questions to Ask:**

When considering a hospital, ask these key questions:

* What is the hospital's experience with treating breast cancer?
* What types of breast cancer treatment options are available?
* Does the hospital offer a multidisciplinary approach to care?
* What are the wait times for appointments and procedures?
* What support services are available?
* Does the hospital participate in clinical trials?
* What are the hospital's patient satisfaction scores?

**Additional Considerations for 11952 Residents:**

* **Transportation:** Consider the travel time and ease of access to each hospital from your location in Southampton.
* **Community Resources:** Explore local support groups and resources for breast cancer patients in the Southampton area.
* **Personal Preferences:** Ultimately, the best hospital is the one that meets your individual needs and preferences.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a complex decision. This review provides a starting point for your research, focusing on hospitals near Southampton, NY (11952). By considering CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and other factors, you can make an informed decision about the best care for your individual needs. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and seek referrals to specialists to help guide your decision-making process. This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.