12934, Ellenburg Center, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 12934, Ellenburg Center, New York is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Adirondacks: A Review for ZIP Code 12934

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan is daunting. For residents near ZIP code 12934 (Lake Placid, NY, and surrounding areas), access to quality healthcare is paramount. This review examines the breast cancer care landscape, focusing on nearby hospitals, their strengths, and key considerations for patients.

**Proximity and Primary Care:**

The immediate vicinity of Lake Placid offers limited hospital options. Residents often travel to larger facilities for specialized care. However, establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician (PCP) is the crucial first step. A PCP can perform initial screenings, provide referrals, and coordinate care throughout the patient journey. Local clinics and family practices in the Adirondack region are essential for this foundational support.

**Focusing on Larger Regional Hospitals:**

The review will concentrate on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, offering comprehensive cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, and support services. These facilities often have dedicated breast centers, experienced multidisciplinary teams, and access to advanced technologies.

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

Approximately a two-hour drive from Lake Placid, the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) is a major regional healthcare provider. It boasts a comprehensive cancer center, the UVM Cancer Center, which is a significant draw for patients in the Adirondacks. While the specific CMS star rating for the entire hospital fluctuates, UVMMC generally maintains a strong reputation for quality.

The UVM Cancer Center provides a full spectrum of breast cancer services. This includes state-of-the-art imaging, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), ultrasound, and MRI. Diagnostic capabilities are robust, offering core needle biopsies and other minimally invasive procedures. The center also houses a dedicated breast cancer surgery team, including surgical oncologists specializing in breast procedures, such as lumpectomies, mastectomies, and sentinel node biopsies.

UVMMC’s radiation oncology department offers advanced radiation therapy techniques, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). Medical oncology services are also available, providing chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. The center emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, with medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, pathologists, radiologists, and supportive care specialists collaborating to create individualized treatment plans.

The hospital also offers robust support services, including oncology social work, psychological support, nutritional counseling, and survivorship programs. Telehealth options are increasingly available, providing convenient access to consultations and follow-up appointments. However, specific telehealth statistics for breast cancer patients are not readily available.

ER wait times at UVMMC can vary, but the hospital strives to meet national benchmarks. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours.

**Glens Falls Hospital (Glens Falls, NY):**

Located approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Lake Placid, Glens Falls Hospital is another important regional hospital. It has a strong local presence and is known for its commitment to community health. Glens Falls Hospital has a breast center, providing diagnostic and treatment services.

Glens Falls Hospital's breast center offers mammography, ultrasound, and other imaging modalities. Diagnostic procedures, including biopsies, are performed by experienced radiologists. The hospital has a surgical oncology team that performs breast surgeries. Radiation therapy is also available.

Medical oncology services provide chemotherapy and other systemic therapies. The hospital emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to care, with a team of specialists collaborating on treatment plans.

Glens Falls Hospital provides support services, including patient navigation, counseling, and support groups. Telehealth options are available, but specific statistics related to breast cancer patients are not available.

ER wait times at Glens Falls Hospital are generally reported to be within acceptable ranges.

**Saratoga Hospital (Saratoga Springs, NY):**

Saratoga Hospital is located approximately a 2-hour drive from Lake Placid. This hospital is another option for breast cancer care. It has a dedicated breast center that provides a range of services.

The breast center offers mammography, ultrasound, and other imaging services. Diagnostic procedures, including biopsies, are performed by experienced radiologists. The hospital has a surgical oncology team that performs breast surgeries. Radiation therapy is also available.

Medical oncology services provide chemotherapy and other systemic therapies. The hospital emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to care.

Saratoga Hospital provides support services, including patient navigation, counseling, and support groups. Telehealth options are available.

ER wait times at Saratoga Hospital are generally reported to be within acceptable ranges.

**Additional Considerations:**

* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the chosen hospital and its specialists are within your insurance network. This is critical to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
* **Patient Reviews and Ratings:** Online reviews can provide valuable insights into patient experiences. However, it is important to consider the source and context of these reviews.
* **Second Opinions:** Seeking a second opinion from another oncologist or breast cancer specialist is always a good idea. This can help confirm the diagnosis and treatment plan.
* **Clinical Trials:** Inquire about clinical trial opportunities at the chosen hospitals. These trials may offer access to innovative treatments.
* **Transportation and Accommodation:** Consider the travel distance to the hospital and the availability of lodging for patients and their families.

**Telehealth in Breast Cancer Care:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in breast cancer care. It can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to support services. The availability and utilization of telehealth services vary between hospitals. Patients should inquire about telehealth options when scheduling appointments.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

ER wait times can be a concern for patients. Patients should be aware of the potential for wait times and consider other options if the situation is not an emergency.

**Conclusion:**

Residents near ZIP code 12934 have access to several hospitals offering breast cancer care. UVMMC, Glens Falls Hospital, and Saratoga Hospital are the main regional options, each with strengths and weaknesses. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, insurance coverage, and preferences when choosing a hospital. Consulting with a PCP, seeking second opinions, and exploring telehealth options are all important steps in navigating breast cancer care. By carefully researching and understanding the available resources, patients can make informed decisions and receive the best possible care.