13606, Adams Center, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13606, Adams Center, New York is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 13606

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan is a daunting journey. For residents near ZIP code 13606 (Watertown, New York), access to high-quality care is paramount. This review examines the prominent hospitals in the region, focusing on factors crucial for breast cancer patients: expertise, technology, patient experience, and accessibility. While the landscape is dominated by a few key players, understanding their strengths and limitations is essential for informed decision-making.

**Carthage Area Hospital (Carthage, NY): A Community Focus**

Carthage Area Hospital, located a short drive from Watertown, offers a community-focused approach to healthcare. While not a flagship facility with extensive specialized cancer services, it provides essential primary care and some diagnostic capabilities. This can be a convenient option for initial screenings and referrals. However, for complex breast cancer cases, patients will likely need to be referred to larger centers.

**River Hospital (Alexandria Bay, NY): Serving the 1000 Islands**

River Hospital, situated in Alexandria Bay, caters to the unique needs of the 1000 Islands region. Its focus is on primary care and emergency services. Like Carthage Area Hospital, River Hospital serves as a crucial access point for initial care and referrals. However, for comprehensive breast cancer treatment, patients would need to seek services elsewhere.

**Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, NY): The Regional Hub**

Samaritan Medical Center, located directly in Watertown, is the primary hospital serving the 13606 area. It is the cornerstone of healthcare in the region and offers a range of services, including a dedicated cancer center. The hospital's commitment to cancer care is evident in its infrastructure and the presence of a multidisciplinary team.

Samaritan Medical Center's Cancer Treatment Center provides chemotherapy and radiation therapy services. The hospital's surgical capabilities include breast surgery, with a focus on both diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. While specific details on the number of breast cancer surgeries performed annually are not readily available, the hospital's overall surgical volume is significant, suggesting a reasonable level of experience.

Samaritan Medical Center has a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating is not the highest possible, it indicates a level of quality that is generally acceptable.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility at Samaritan Medical Center**

ER wait times are a crucial consideration for any patient, especially those experiencing cancer-related emergencies. Data on ER wait times at Samaritan Medical Center fluctuates. Patients should check the hospital's website or other online resources for the most current information.

Accessibility is another key factor. Samaritan Medical Center is located in Watertown, making it easily accessible for residents of the 13606 area. Parking is available on-site. Public transportation options are limited in Watertown, so driving or arranging transportation is generally necessary.

**Specialty Centers and Technology at Samaritan Medical Center**

Samaritan Medical Center offers a range of specialty services. The hospital has a radiology department equipped with advanced imaging technology, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI. This technology is essential for the early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer. The hospital also has a laboratory for pathology services, which is critical for confirming diagnoses and guiding treatment decisions.

Specific details on the hospital's use of advanced technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and image-guided biopsy techniques, are available on the hospital's website or by contacting the cancer center directly. The availability of these technologies is a positive indicator of the hospital's commitment to providing state-of-the-art care.

**Telehealth Initiatives at Samaritan Medical Center**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for cancer patients who may have mobility limitations or live in remote areas. Samaritan Medical Center has implemented telehealth initiatives to expand access to care.

The hospital offers telehealth consultations for certain specialties, including oncology. This allows patients to consult with their doctors remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. The specific details of the telehealth program, including which services are available and how to access them, can be found on the hospital's website.

**Patient Experience and Support Services at Samaritan Medical Center**

Patient experience is a critical aspect of cancer care. Samaritan Medical Center offers a range of support services to help patients navigate their cancer journey. These services may include patient navigators, support groups, and counseling services.

The hospital's website and patient satisfaction surveys provide insights into the patient experience. While individual experiences vary, the hospital's commitment to patient-centered care is evident in its efforts to provide comprehensive support services.

**Considerations for Complex Cases**

While Samaritan Medical Center provides a comprehensive range of services, patients with complex breast cancer cases may need to consider seeking care at larger, specialized cancer centers. These centers often have access to cutting-edge research, clinical trials, and a wider range of specialists.

**Additional Considerations for Patients**

When choosing a hospital for breast cancer care, patients should consider several factors:

* **Physician Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists are crucial.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Access to advanced imaging technology, surgical techniques, and radiation therapy equipment is essential.
* **Support Services:** The availability of patient navigators, support groups, and counseling services can significantly improve the patient experience.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirming that the hospital and its providers are in-network with your insurance plan is essential.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider your personal preferences, such as the hospital's location, the atmosphere, and the level of communication with your healthcare team.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

For residents near ZIP code 13606, Samaritan Medical Center is the primary hub for breast cancer care. It provides a comprehensive range of services, including diagnosis, treatment, and support. While smaller hospitals like Carthage Area Hospital and River Hospital offer essential primary care and referral services, Samaritan Medical Center is the central point for specialized cancer care. Patients should carefully research the hospital's services, technologies, and patient experience, and consider their individual needs and preferences when making their healthcare decisions. For complex cases, or if access to clinical trials is important, patients may need to consider traveling to larger, specialized cancer centers outside the immediate Watertown area. Ultimately, the best choice is the one that aligns with the patient's individual needs and provides the highest level of care and support.