12980, Saint Regis Falls, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 12980, Saint Regis Falls, New York is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Adirondacks: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 12980

The Adirondack region, encompassing ZIP code 12980 (Saranac Lake, NY), presents a unique healthcare landscape. Residents seeking breast cancer care have a limited but crucial selection of hospitals. This review focuses on the key facilities within a reasonable driving distance, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and the specific resources available to patients. We will delve into factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The primary hospitals serving this area are often smaller, community-focused institutions. Proximity to larger, more specialized facilities in bigger cities like Albany or Burlington, VT, is a significant consideration for complex cases. Access to advanced technology and specialized expertise may require travel. This review aims to provide a realistic assessment of the options available within a practical radius.

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

Adirondack Medical Center (AMC), part of the Adirondack Health system, is the closest major hospital to 12980. It serves as the primary healthcare provider for the immediate area. AMC is a critical access hospital, meaning it receives federal funding based on its rural location and the essential services it provides.

AMC offers a range of services relevant to breast cancer care. They have a radiology department providing mammograms and other imaging services. They also offer surgical services, including breast biopsies and lumpectomies. However, AMC does not have a dedicated, comprehensive cancer center. Patients requiring chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or complex surgical procedures are often referred to other facilities.

The CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating for AMC is not readily available. Critical access hospitals are not always rated in the same way as larger facilities. It is important to note that the absence of a star rating does not necessarily indicate poor quality, but it does limit the ability to compare AMC directly to larger hospitals.

ER wait times at AMC can fluctuate. Data from recent years suggests wait times are generally within the national average for similar-sized hospitals. However, specific wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients. It is advisable to call ahead or check online resources for the most up-to-date information.

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas. AMC has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years, including consultations with specialists and follow-up appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for breast cancer patients who may need to consult with oncologists or other specialists located at a distance. The availability of telehealth services is constantly evolving, so patients should inquire directly with AMC about the specific services available.

**Alice Hyde Medical Center (Malone, NY):**

Alice Hyde Medical Center, located approximately an hour's drive from Saranac Lake, is another option for residents in the 12980 ZIP code. As a larger hospital than AMC, Alice Hyde offers a broader range of services.

Alice Hyde has a radiology department that performs mammograms and other breast imaging. They also offer surgical services, including breast surgery. While they may not have a dedicated cancer center, they often have affiliations with larger cancer centers in the region, allowing them to coordinate care and provide access to specialized treatments.

Alice Hyde Medical Center's CMS star rating is also not readily available. It is important to note that the absence of a star rating does not necessarily indicate poor quality, but it does limit the ability to compare Alice Hyde directly to larger hospitals.

ER wait times at Alice Hyde are generally comparable to those at AMC. Patients should check online resources or call the hospital directly for the most current information.

Telehealth services are available at Alice Hyde, offering access to specialists and remote consultations. Patients should inquire about the specific telehealth services available for breast cancer care.

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

Glens Falls Hospital, located approximately a two-hour drive from Saranac Lake, is a larger regional hospital offering a more comprehensive approach to breast cancer care. It is part of the Glens Falls Hospital network, which includes the C.R. Wood Cancer Center.

The C.R. Wood Cancer Center offers a full range of services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive care services. They have a multidisciplinary team of specialists dedicated to breast cancer treatment. This includes surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, nurses, and support staff. The center is equipped with advanced technology for imaging, diagnosis, and treatment.

Glens Falls Hospital's CMS star rating is available. It generally receives a good rating, reflecting its overall quality of care. This provides a benchmark for comparison with other hospitals.

ER wait times at Glens Falls Hospital can be longer than at the smaller community hospitals. Patients should check online resources or call the hospital for the most up-to-date information.

Glens Falls Hospital has a robust telehealth program, offering remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live a significant distance from the hospital.

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

The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC), located in Burlington, VT, is approximately a two-hour drive from Saranac Lake. It is a major academic medical center and offers a highly specialized approach to breast cancer care.

UVMMC has a comprehensive cancer center, the UVM Cancer Center, offering a full range of services, including advanced surgical techniques, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. They have a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and supportive care providers.

UVMMC has a CMS star rating, which is generally good, reflecting its high-quality care and advanced services.

ER wait times at UVMMC can be longer than at smaller hospitals. Patients should check online resources or call the hospital for the most up-to-date information.

UVMMC has a well-established telehealth program, offering remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists. This is particularly important for patients who live a significant distance from the hospital.

**Considerations for Patients:**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a deeply personal decision. Patients should consider several factors:

* **Stage and Type of Cancer:** The complexity of the cancer will influence the level of care needed.
* **Proximity:** Travel time and distance are important, especially for frequent appointments.
* **Specialized Services:** Access to a comprehensive cancer center with a multidisciplinary team is crucial for complex cases.
* **Technology:** Availability of advanced imaging, surgical techniques, and treatment options.
* **Support Services:** Access to support groups, counseling, and other resources.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the chosen hospital is within your insurance network.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider the hospital's culture, patient satisfaction ratings, and the communication style of the healthcare team.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of ZIP code 12980 have a range of options for breast cancer care. Adirondack Medical Center provides local access to basic services. Alice Hyde Medical Center offers a broader range of services. Glens Falls Hospital and the University of Vermont Medical Center provide more comprehensive care, including specialized cancer centers. The best choice will depend on the individual patient's needs, the stage of their cancer, and their personal preferences. Patients should consult with their primary care physician and consider all available options before making a decision. Telehealth services are increasingly important for accessing specialized care and follow-up appointments, especially for those living in rural areas. Careful research and open communication with healthcare providers are essential for navigating the complexities of breast cancer treatment.