12964, New Russia, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 12964, New Russia, New York is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care Near Plattsburgh, NY (ZIP Code 12964): A Scorecard

Finding the best breast cancer care can be a daunting task. For residents of Plattsburgh, NY (ZIP code 12964), the search involves assessing proximity, expertise, and patient outcomes. This review provides a fact-rich overview of available options, focusing on key metrics to help navigate this critical decision.

**Proximity and General Hospital Overview:**

The immediate vicinity of Plattsburgh offers limited options for comprehensive breast cancer care. Residents will likely need to consider hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, potentially crossing state lines into Vermont. This impacts factors like travel time, access to support networks, and potential insurance coverage.

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

The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington, VT, is a primary contender for residents of 12964. Located approximately 70 miles south of Plattsburgh, it's a significant regional medical hub. UVMMC is a large, tertiary care center offering a wide range of specialties, including comprehensive cancer care.

UVMMC’s Breast Care Center provides a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists. They offer advanced imaging technologies, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and are involved in clinical trials.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:**

UVMMC holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality based on various metrics, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating isn't the highest possible score, it suggests a hospital that performs at or slightly above the national average. Further investigation into specific performance metrics within the breast cancer program is crucial.

**ER Wait Times and Access:**

Emergency room wait times are an important consideration, especially for patients experiencing acute symptoms or complications. UVMMC's ER wait times can vary, but generally, they are within the national average. However, wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and overall patient volume. Patients should be prepared for potential delays.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

UVMMC boasts a dedicated cancer center, the UVM Cancer Center, which offers a full spectrum of cancer services. This center is crucial for breast cancer patients, providing access to specialized expertise and resources. The center’s multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive coordinated care from various specialists.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery. UVMMC offers telehealth services, which can be beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations, and managing certain aspects of care. This is especially helpful for patients who live a significant distance from the hospital, like those in Plattsburgh. The availability and scope of telehealth services specific to breast cancer care should be investigated.

**Other Considerations:**

UVMMC is a teaching hospital, meaning that residents and fellows participate in patient care. This can provide access to the latest medical knowledge but may also mean that patients see a variety of providers.

**CVPH Medical Center (Plattsburgh, NY): Local Option**

Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh is the closest hospital to ZIP code 12964. While CVPH may not offer the same breadth of specialized services as UVMMC, it provides essential care, including diagnostic imaging and some cancer treatment options.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:**

CVPH has a 3-star rating from CMS, similar to UVMMC. This indicates a comparable level of overall hospital quality. Detailed analysis of CVPH's performance specifically in breast cancer care is necessary to determine its strengths and weaknesses.

**ER Wait Times and Access:**

CVPH's ER wait times can vary but are generally shorter than those at larger hospitals like UVMMC. This proximity and potentially faster access to emergency care are significant advantages for local residents.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

CVPH has a cancer center, the FitzPatrick Cancer Center, which provides oncology services. However, the scope of services and the level of specialization may be less extensive than at UVMMC. Patients may need to travel to other facilities for certain treatments or consultations.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

CVPH offers telehealth services, which can be beneficial for patients in the region. The availability and scope of telehealth services specific to breast cancer care should be investigated.

**Other Considerations:**

CVPH is a community hospital, which offers a more intimate care environment. This can be appealing to some patients.

**Comparing the Options:**

Choosing between UVMMC and CVPH requires careful consideration of individual needs and preferences. UVMMC offers a wider range of specialized services, advanced technologies, and participation in clinical trials. However, it involves longer travel times. CVPH provides local access, shorter ER wait times, and a more community-focused environment, but its specialized services may be more limited.

**Other Hospitals to Consider:**

While UVMMC and CVPH are the primary options, other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance could be considered. This might include hospitals in Montreal, Canada, or other regional medical centers. These options may offer specialized services or access to different treatment approaches.

**Specific Breast Cancer Program Metrics to Investigate:**

When evaluating hospitals, patients should inquire about specific metrics related to their breast cancer program. These include:

* **Number of breast cancer cases treated annually:** Higher volume often indicates greater expertise.
* **Surgical outcomes:** Rates of successful surgeries, complication rates, and reoperation rates.
* **Radiation therapy techniques:** Availability of advanced techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
* **Medical oncology services:** Access to chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Clinical trial participation:** Opportunities to participate in research and access cutting-edge treatments.
* **Patient satisfaction scores:** Feedback from other patients regarding their experiences.
* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACoS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) is a positive indicator.
* **Breast cancer support services:** Availability of support groups, counseling, and other resources.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations:**

Insurance coverage is a critical factor. Patients should verify that their insurance plan covers services at the chosen hospital and that the providers are in-network. Financial assistance programs may be available to help cover the cost of care.

**Making the Decision:**

Choosing the best breast cancer care involves a multi-faceted assessment. Residents of 12964 should carefully weigh the factors outlined above, considering their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. Consulting with primary care physicians, seeking second opinions, and researching specific program metrics are crucial steps in making an informed decision.

**Conclusion:**

The landscape of breast cancer care near Plattsburgh, NY, presents a choice between a regional flagship hospital (UVMMC) and a local community hospital (CVPH). Both offer essential services, but their strengths and weaknesses differ. A thorough investigation of each hospital's specific breast cancer program, along with consideration of individual needs and preferences, is essential for making the best decision.