12937, Fort Covington, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 12937, Fort Covington, New York is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care in the Adirondacks: A Review for ZIP Code 12937**

Finding the best breast cancer care near ZIP code 12937, which encompasses the town of Elizabethtown, New York, and surrounding areas in the Adirondack region, requires a careful examination of available resources. This review focuses on the hospitals and healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, considering factors such as quality of care, specialized services, accessibility, and patient experience. The analysis incorporates data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reliable sources.

**The Landscape of Care: Considerations for Rural Communities**

The Adirondack region presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare. The rural nature of the area means residents often face longer travel times to access specialized medical services. Therefore, the availability of comprehensive care, including early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up, is crucial. Telehealth services, which have gained prominence in recent years, can play a vital role in bridging geographical gaps and providing access to specialists.

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

While not directly within ZIP code 12937, the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington, Vermont, is a significant healthcare provider for residents of the Adirondacks. UVMMC is a large, tertiary care center and a Level I trauma center, offering a wide range of medical specialties, including comprehensive breast cancer care. The hospital's breast cancer program is known for its multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to provide individualized treatment plans.

UVMMC's CMS star rating is a key indicator of quality. The hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. While this rating is not the highest possible, it still reflects a commitment to quality and patient safety.

UVMMC’s emergency room wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of cases. However, as a large hospital, it typically handles a high volume of patients. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours. It's advisable to check current wait times on the hospital's website or through a third-party app before heading to the ER.

**Specialized Breast Cancer Services at UVMMC**

UVMMC offers a full spectrum of breast cancer services, including:

* **Diagnostic Imaging:** Mammography, 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast ultrasound, and MRI.
* **Surgical Oncology:** Surgical options include lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery.
* **Medical Oncology:** Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** External beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to cutting-edge research and clinical trials.
* **Support Services:** Counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs.

UVMMC also has a dedicated breast care center that provides a patient-centered approach to care.

**Telehealth and Accessibility at UVMMC**

UVMMC has invested in telehealth services to improve access to care for patients in rural areas. Telehealth consultations are available for certain appointments, such as follow-up visits and consultations with specialists. This can reduce the need for long-distance travel and provide patients with convenient access to care.

**Glens Falls Hospital (Glens Falls, NY): A Regional Hub**

Glens Falls Hospital, located approximately an hour south of Elizabethtown, is another important healthcare provider for residents of the Adirondacks. It is a regional hospital with a comprehensive cancer center, including services for breast cancer.

Glens Falls Hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

The hospital's emergency room wait times are generally shorter than those at larger hospitals like UVMMC. However, wait times can still fluctuate. Checking the hospital's website or a third-party app for current wait times is recommended.

**Breast Cancer Services at Glens Falls Hospital**

Glens Falls Hospital offers a range of breast cancer services, including:

* **Diagnostic Imaging:** Mammography, breast ultrasound, and MRI.
* **Surgical Oncology:** Lumpectomy and mastectomy.
* **Medical Oncology:** Chemotherapy and targeted therapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** External beam radiation therapy.
* **Support Services:** Counseling and support groups.

**Telehealth at Glens Falls Hospital**

Glens Falls Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years. Telehealth appointments are available for certain oncology appointments, including follow-up visits.

**Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (Plattsburgh, NY): Closer to Home**

Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, NY, is the closest major hospital to ZIP code 12937, making it a convenient option for residents of Elizabethtown and surrounding areas. CVPH offers a range of medical services, including cancer care.

CVPH has a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

Emergency room wait times at CVPH are generally shorter than those at UVMMC, but can still vary. Checking the hospital's website or a third-party app for current wait times is recommended.

**Breast Cancer Services at CVPH**

CVPH provides breast cancer services, including:

* **Diagnostic Imaging:** Mammography, breast ultrasound, and MRI.
* **Surgical Oncology:** Lumpectomy and mastectomy.
* **Medical Oncology:** Chemotherapy and targeted therapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** External beam radiation therapy.
* **Support Services:** Counseling and support groups.

**Telehealth at CVPH**

CVPH has been increasing its telehealth capabilities. Telehealth appointments are available for some oncology services.

**Other Considerations: Access to Care and Patient Experience**

Beyond the hospitals mentioned, several other factors are important when evaluating breast cancer care options:

* **Accessibility:** Consider the distance to the hospital, ease of travel, and availability of transportation.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its providers accept your insurance plan.
* **Patient Experience:** Read online reviews and testimonials to get insights into patient satisfaction. Consider factors like communication with doctors, wait times, and the overall atmosphere of the hospital.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, such as counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs.

**Early Detection and Screening: A Critical Component**

Early detection is crucial for successful breast cancer treatment. Regular mammograms and clinical breast exams are essential for women of all ages. Women should discuss their individual risk factors and screening recommendations with their healthcare providers.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the best breast cancer care facility requires careful consideration of various factors. For residents of ZIP code 12937, UVMMC, Glens Falls Hospital, and CVPH are the primary options. UVMMC offers the most comprehensive services and access to cutting-edge research, while Glens Falls Hospital and CVPH provide more convenient options closer to home.

Patients should research each hospital, considering their specific needs and preferences. Consulting with a primary care physician or oncologist is essential to develop an individualized treatment plan. Telehealth services can play a vital role in facilitating access to care and improving the patient experience. Ultimately, the best choice depends on a patient's individual circumstances and priorities.