13613, Brasher Falls, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13613, Brasher Falls, New York is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the North Country: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 13613

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is daunting. Choosing the right hospital, with its specialized care and supportive services, is a critical first step. This review examines hospitals in and around ZIP code 13613 (Canton, New York) to provide a factual overview of their breast cancer services, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information is designed to help patients and their families make informed decisions.

**The Landscape of Care: A Regional Overview**

The immediate vicinity of Canton, NY, presents a more limited landscape for advanced cancer care. Residents often look to larger regional centers for comprehensive breast cancer treatment. Proximity to larger cities like Syracuse and Burlington, Vermont, expands the available options. This review will consider both local and regional facilities, keeping in mind the practicalities of travel and access.

**Canton-Potsdam Hospital: A Community Anchor**

Canton-Potsdam Hospital (CPH), located in Potsdam, NY (approximately 15 minutes from Canton), serves as a primary healthcare provider for the area. While CPH doesn't boast a dedicated, standalone breast cancer center, it offers essential services. Patients can access diagnostic imaging, including mammography and ultrasound, within the hospital. CPH is a community hospital, and its focus is on providing general medical services.

CPH's CMS star rating, a measure of overall hospital quality based on patient experience and clinical outcomes, is a useful indicator. As of the latest available data, CPH’s rating should be verified on the CMS website. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various areas of care, including patient safety and satisfaction. ER wait times at CPH are a factor to consider. Publicly available data from sources like ProPublica can provide insights into average wait times, which can fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume.

While CPH may not have a specialized breast cancer center, it can serve as a point of entry for initial screening and diagnosis. Patients diagnosed with breast cancer at CPH would likely be referred to specialists at other facilities for advanced treatment, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

**The University Hospital at Upstate Medical University: A Regional Powerhouse**

Approximately an hour and a half south of Canton, in Syracuse, NY, lies the University Hospital at Upstate Medical University. This hospital, a major teaching hospital, offers a significantly broader range of cancer services. Upstate Medical University has a dedicated cancer center, providing comprehensive care, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. This center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by a multidisciplinary team of specialists.

Upstate Medical University’s CMS star rating is an important consideration. This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality and performance. The hospital’s ER wait times should also be considered. Publicly available data from sources like the CMS Hospital Compare website or ProPublica can provide insights into average wait times. Longer wait times can be a concern, especially for patients experiencing acute symptoms.

The cancer center at Upstate Medical University offers a wide array of breast cancer treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. They are also equipped with advanced imaging capabilities. The hospital also provides supportive services, such as patient navigation, support groups, and rehabilitation programs.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like the North Country. Upstate Medical University, with its broader reach, has expanded its telehealth capabilities. Telehealth can provide access to specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and supportive care from the comfort of home, reducing the need for frequent travel. The availability of telehealth services, including the types of appointments offered, should be verified directly with the hospital.

**Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH): Serving the Adirondacks**

Located in Plattsburgh, NY, approximately a two-hour drive east of Canton, Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) is another regional option. CVPH, a member of the University of Vermont Health Network, offers a comprehensive cancer program. This program includes a dedicated breast care center providing diagnostic services, treatment, and support.

CVPH's CMS star rating is a key indicator of its overall quality. The hospital’s ER wait times are also a factor to consider. Publicly available data can provide insights into average wait times.

The breast care center at CVPH offers a range of services, including mammography, breast ultrasound, and breast MRI. They also provide surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology services. The hospital emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to care, with specialists working together to develop individualized treatment plans.

**Telehealth at CVPH**

CVPH, as part of the UVM Health Network, also has a robust telehealth program. Telehealth services can be particularly valuable for patients in the North Country, reducing the need for travel to access specialist consultations and follow-up care. The availability of specific telehealth services should be verified directly with the hospital.

**Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center: A Further Option**

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, located in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is a more distant option, approximately a three-hour drive from Canton. However, for some patients, the quality of care and specialized programs may warrant the travel. Dartmouth Hitchcock is a nationally recognized cancer center, offering comprehensive breast cancer services.

Dartmouth Hitchcock’s CMS star rating is a significant factor to consider. The hospital’s ER wait times should also be assessed.

Dartmouth Hitchcock offers a full spectrum of breast cancer treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. The hospital is known for its advanced technologies and research initiatives. The hospital also provides a wide range of supportive services, including patient navigation, genetic counseling, and survivorship programs.

**Comparing Key Metrics**

Comparing hospitals based on key metrics is crucial for making informed decisions. CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and the availability of specialized services are all important factors.

* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings provide a general indication of hospital quality, based on patient experience and clinical outcomes. Higher ratings generally indicate better performance.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are preferable, especially for patients experiencing acute symptoms. Publicly available data can provide insights into average wait times.
* **Specialty Centers:** Dedicated breast cancer centers often offer a more comprehensive and coordinated approach to care.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas.

**Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. Factors to consider include the stage and type of cancer, the desired treatment options, the availability of supportive services, and the convenience of location.

This review provides a starting point for research. Patients should gather information from multiple sources, including their primary care physician, oncologists, and other healthcare professionals. They should also research each hospital's website and patient reviews.

**Conclusion**

The North Country offers a range of options for breast cancer care, from community hospitals to regional centers. While Canton-Potsdam Hospital provides essential services, patients often seek more specialized care at facilities like Upstate Medical University, CVPH, and Dartmouth Hitchcock. By carefully evaluating the factors discussed in this review, patients can make informed decisions and access the best possible care for their individual needs. The information provided here is a starting point for research; patients should always consult with their healthcare providers for personalized recommendations and guidance.