13617, Canton, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13617, Canton, New York is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Options Near ZIP Code 13617

Finding the right care for breast cancer is a journey, and location is a critical factor. This review focuses on the hospitals closest to ZIP code 13617 (Canton, New York) and assesses their suitability for breast cancer treatment, considering factors like quality ratings, specialized services, and access to care. We'll delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each facility, providing a comprehensive overview to aid informed decision-making.

**Understanding the Landscape: Canton and Surrounding Areas**

Canton, a rural community in upstate New York, presents a unique challenge for healthcare access. While the immediate area might have limited options, residents often look to larger regional centers for specialized care. Proximity to larger cities like Syracuse and Albany significantly expands the available resources. This review will consider hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, acknowledging the potential need for travel.

**Key Metrics: What Matters in Breast Cancer Care**

Several factors are crucial when evaluating a hospital for breast cancer treatment. These include:

* **Quality Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Star Ratings offer a valuable, albeit imperfect, benchmark of overall hospital quality. Higher star ratings generally indicate better performance across various clinical areas.
* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) signifies a commitment to comprehensive cancer care, including multidisciplinary teams, supportive services, and adherence to established standards.
* **Specialized Centers:** Dedicated breast cancer centers, often within larger hospitals, offer focused expertise, advanced technologies, and a team of specialists working collaboratively.
* **Surgical Options:** The availability of various surgical techniques, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery, is essential.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Access to radiation therapy, including advanced techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), is critical for many patients.
* **Medical Oncology:** The presence of experienced medical oncologists who can administer chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy is paramount.
* **Support Services:** Comprehensive support services, such as patient navigators, genetic counseling, psychological support, and survivorship programs, significantly enhance the patient experience.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth options can improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support services.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** While not directly related to cancer care, long ER wait times can be indicative of overall hospital efficiency and resource allocation.

**Hospital Profiles: A Closer Look**

**1. Canton-Potsdam Hospital (CPH):**

CPH, located in Potsdam, NY (a short drive from Canton), serves as a primary care provider for the region. As of the latest CMS data, CPH does not have a CMS star rating. Information regarding its breast cancer services requires further investigation. The hospital likely offers basic diagnostic services, such as mammography and potentially ultrasound. However, for more complex cases, patients would likely be referred to larger regional centers. ER wait times at CPH should be verified.

**2. Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center (Ogdensburg, NY):**

Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg, NY, is another potential option. As of the latest CMS data, Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center does not have a CMS star rating. Information regarding its breast cancer services requires further investigation. The hospital likely offers basic diagnostic services, such as mammography and potentially ultrasound. However, for more complex cases, patients would likely be referred to larger regional centers. ER wait times at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center should be verified.

**3. Upstate University Hospital (Syracuse, NY):**

Upstate University Hospital, located in Syracuse, NY (approximately a 1.5-hour drive), is a flagship hospital and a major regional referral center. Upstate has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. The hospital is likely accredited by the ACS CoC, indicating a commitment to comprehensive cancer care. Upstate’s Cancer Center would be a significant asset. It offers a multidisciplinary approach with medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. The hospital likely has access to advanced imaging technologies, surgical techniques, and radiation therapy options, including IMRT. Upstate also has a strong emphasis on research and clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments. The hospital likely has a robust support system, including patient navigators, social workers, and support groups. Telehealth capabilities are likely available for follow-up appointments and consultations. ER wait times should be verified.

**4. Crouse Hospital (Syracuse, NY):**

Crouse Hospital, also in Syracuse, is another major healthcare provider. Crouse has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. The hospital likely has an ACS CoC accreditation. Crouse's oncology services, including breast cancer treatment, are well-regarded. They offer a multidisciplinary team approach. The hospital likely provides a range of surgical options, radiation therapy, and medical oncology services. Crouse is known for its commitment to patient-centered care. They likely offer support services, including patient navigators and support groups. Telehealth options are likely available. ER wait times should be verified.

**5. St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center (Syracuse, NY):**

St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center in Syracuse is a major healthcare provider. St. Joseph's has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. The hospital likely has an ACS CoC accreditation. St. Joseph's offers comprehensive cancer care, including breast cancer treatment. They have a multidisciplinary team of specialists. The hospital likely provides a range of surgical options, radiation therapy, and medical oncology services. St. Joseph's is known for its commitment to patient-centered care. They likely offer support services, including patient navigators and support groups. Telehealth options are likely available. ER wait times should be verified.

**6. Albany Medical Center (Albany, NY):**

Albany Medical Center, located in Albany, NY (approximately a 3-hour drive), is another potential option for breast cancer treatment. Albany Medical Center has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. The hospital is likely accredited by the ACS CoC. Albany Medical Center has a comprehensive cancer center. They offer a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care. The hospital likely provides a range of surgical options, radiation therapy, and medical oncology services. Albany Medical Center is known for its research and clinical trials. They likely offer support services, including patient navigators and support groups. Telehealth options are likely available. ER wait times should be verified.

**Telehealth Considerations:**

Telehealth is increasingly important, particularly for patients in rural areas. Upstate University Hospital, Crouse Hospital, St. Joseph's Hospital, and Albany Medical Center are likely to have more robust telehealth programs than smaller, local hospitals. These programs can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to support services, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**ER Wait Times: A Proxy for Efficiency**

While not directly related to breast cancer care, ER wait times can be a general indicator of hospital efficiency and resource allocation. Shorter wait times often suggest better overall management and potentially quicker access to other services. This data should be reviewed.

**Making the Right Choice:**

For residents of ZIP code 13617, the best options for breast cancer care likely lie in the larger regional centers like Upstate University Hospital, Crouse Hospital, St. Joseph's Hospital, and Albany Medical Center. These hospitals offer a more comprehensive range of services, specialized expertise, and access to advanced technologies. While the drive to these facilities may be longer, the benefits of comprehensive care often outweigh the inconvenience.

**Recommendations:**

* **Consult with your primary care physician:** They can provide referrals and guidance.
* **Research each hospital's breast cancer center:** Visit their websites to learn about their services, specialists, and patient outcomes.
* **Inquire about accreditation:** Ensure the hospital is accredited by the ACS CoC.
* **Ask about support services:** Find out what resources are available to help you cope with the emotional and practical challenges of breast cancer treatment.
* **Consider telehealth options:** Explore whether telehealth can facilitate follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Verify ER wait times:** Check the latest data to assess the hospital's efficiency.
* **Don't hesitate to seek a second opinion:** This is especially important if you have complex or unusual circumstances.

**Disclaimer:** This review is based on publicly available information and general knowledge. Specific services, accreditations, and ratings may change. Always verify information directly with the hospitals.