12933, Ellenburg, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 12933, Ellenburg, New York is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care in the Adirondacks: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 12933**

Finding the right healthcare, especially when facing a diagnosis like breast cancer, is a critical undertaking. For residents near ZIP code 12933 (Lake Placid, New York, and surrounding areas), the choices are somewhat limited geographically, but the quality of care available warrants careful examination. This review focuses on the key hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, assessing their strengths and weaknesses in breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support services.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Hospitals to Consider**

The primary hospitals serving this region are Adirondack Medical Center (AMC) in Saranac Lake and, further afield, larger facilities in Burlington, Vermont, and Albany, New York. While smaller community hospitals offer convenience, the complexity of breast cancer care often necessitates access to specialized centers and advanced technologies. This review will prioritize those factors.

**Adirondack Medical Center (Saranac Lake, NY)**

Adirondack Medical Center (AMC), part of the Adirondack Health system, is the closest major hospital to ZIP code 12933. AMC is a critical access hospital, meaning it receives special federal funding due to its rural location. While it doesn't have a dedicated, standalone cancer center, it provides essential services for breast cancer care.

AMC's breast cancer services include diagnostic imaging, such as mammography and ultrasound, performed by certified technologists. The hospital offers surgical consultations and, in some cases, performs breast cancer surgeries. However, the scope of surgical procedures might be limited compared to larger facilities. AMC partners with the University of Vermont Health Network, which allows patients access to more specialized services.

**CMS Star Rating and ER Wait Times**

AMC's overall CMS star rating is not publicly available as of the current date. However, it is important to note that critical access hospitals are not always evaluated with the same criteria as larger facilities. ER wait times are a key indicator of access to care. Publicly available data may vary, but residents should inquire about current wait times at the time of need.

**Specialty Centers and Telehealth**

AMC does not have a dedicated breast cancer specialty center. However, it offers access to medical oncologists and radiation oncologists through affiliations with larger networks. Telehealth is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. AMC offers telehealth services for some consultations, potentially reducing the need for travel to larger facilities. The availability of telehealth for breast cancer-related appointments should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**University of Vermont Medical Center (Burlington, VT)**

A drive to Burlington, Vermont, offers access to the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC). This is a Level I trauma center and a major regional referral center. UVMMC has a dedicated cancer center, the UVM Cancer Center, which provides comprehensive breast cancer care.

**Comprehensive Cancer Care**

The UVM Cancer Center offers a multidisciplinary approach, with teams of medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists collaborating on patient care. The center provides a full range of services, including advanced imaging, surgical procedures (mastectomies, lumpectomies, reconstructive surgery), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials.

**CMS Star Rating and ER Wait Times**

UVMMC has a 3-star rating from CMS. ER wait times at UVMMC can vary, particularly during peak seasons. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times, especially if they are traveling from a distance.

**Specialty Centers and Telehealth**

The UVM Cancer Center has a dedicated breast cancer program. This program offers specialized services, including genetic counseling, supportive care services (nutrition, psychological support), and access to clinical trials. UVMMC has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from Burlington.

**Albany Medical Center (Albany, NY)**

Albany Medical Center (AMC) is another option for residents near ZIP code 12933, though it requires a longer drive. AMC is a large, academic medical center with a comprehensive cancer program.

**Cancer Care Services**

AMC's cancer program offers a full spectrum of breast cancer services, including advanced imaging, surgical procedures, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. The hospital has a dedicated breast cancer center with a multidisciplinary team of specialists.

**CMS Star Rating and ER Wait Times**

Albany Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS. ER wait times at AMC can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Patients should check current wait times before heading to the emergency room.

**Specialty Centers and Telehealth**

AMC has a dedicated breast cancer center. The center offers a wide range of services, including genetic counseling, survivorship programs, and access to support groups. AMC has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments for breast cancer patients.

**Comparing the Options: A Scorecard Approach**

Assessing these hospitals requires a nuanced approach. Here’s a simplified scorecard, acknowledging that individual needs and preferences vary:

* **Adirondack Medical Center:**
* **Proximity:** Excellent.
* **Specialized Breast Cancer Services:** Limited. Relies on partnerships.
* **Advanced Technologies:** Basic.
* **Telehealth:** Available, but scope needs confirmation.
* **Overall:** Good for initial diagnostics and basic care, but likely necessitates referral for complex cases.

* **University of Vermont Medical Center:**
* **Proximity:** Moderate (requires a drive).
* **Specialized Breast Cancer Services:** Excellent. Dedicated cancer center.
* **Advanced Technologies:** Excellent.
* **Telehealth:** Good.
* **Overall:** A strong option for comprehensive care, but travel is a factor.

* **Albany Medical Center:**
* **Proximity:** Moderate (requires a longer drive than UVMMC).
* **Specialized Breast Cancer Services:** Excellent. Dedicated cancer center.
* **Advanced Technologies:** Excellent.
* **Telehealth:** Good.
* **Overall:** Another strong option for comprehensive care, with a longer travel time.

**Factors Beyond the Hospital: Important Considerations**

Beyond the hospitals themselves, several factors influence the quality of breast cancer care:

* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that your insurance plan covers the hospitals and specialists you are considering.
* **Physician Expertise:** Research the qualifications and experience of the oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists. Look for board certifications and specializations in breast cancer.
* **Support Services:** Consider the availability of support groups, counseling services, and patient navigators.
* **Patient Experience:** Read online reviews and talk to other patients to get a sense of the hospital's patient-centeredness.
* **Clinical Trials:** If appropriate, inquire about access to clinical trials that may offer innovative treatment options.
* **Transportation:** Consider the ease of travel, especially if you will need frequent appointments.

**Making the Right Choice: A Personalized Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a deeply personal decision. Residents near ZIP code 12933 have options ranging from the convenience of AMC to the comprehensive services offered at UVMMC and AMC. The best choice will depend on individual circumstances, the stage of the cancer, the desired level of care, and the willingness to travel. Thorough research, consultation with your primary care physician, and careful consideration of the factors outlined in this review will help you make an informed decision and navigate the challenges of breast cancer with confidence. Remember to always confirm the availability of services, insurance coverage, and current wait times directly with the hospitals.