13667, Norfolk, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13667, Norfolk, New York is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near ZIP Code 13667

The search for the best breast cancer care can feel overwhelming. This review aims to provide a fact-rich assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 13667 (Massena, NY), focusing on key indicators like quality ratings, wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to empower informed decision-making for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis or seeking preventative care.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Considerations**

Before diving into specific hospitals, it's crucial to understand the metrics used to evaluate breast cancer care. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Star Ratings offer a valuable, albeit generalized, overview of hospital quality. These ratings, ranging from one to five stars, consider factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. However, they don’t specifically address breast cancer care.

Specialized breast centers, often accredited by organizations like the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. Accreditation signifies adherence to rigorous standards for diagnosis, treatment, and support services.

Emergency room (ER) wait times are a crucial factor, particularly for patients experiencing acute symptoms or complications. Telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, are increasingly important for accessing care, especially in rural areas.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Closer Look**

The closest major medical center to Massena, NY (ZIP code 13667) is **Canton-Potsdam Hospital** in Potsdam, NY. While it's not a flagship hospital in the strictest sense, it serves as a primary healthcare provider for the region.

* **Canton-Potsdam Hospital:** This hospital is a part of St. Lawrence Health. It currently holds a **3-star CMS rating**. While the CMS rating doesn't specifically reflect breast cancer care, it provides a general indication of overall hospital performance. ER wait times can fluctuate, but average wait times are often available on hospital websites or through third-party services. The hospital likely offers breast cancer screening and diagnostic services. The availability of a dedicated breast center and NAPBC accreditation should be confirmed directly with the hospital. Telehealth services are increasingly common, and it's important to inquire about the availability of virtual consultations with oncologists or breast specialists.

**Specialty Centers and Comprehensive Care**

Beyond general hospital ratings, the presence of specialized breast centers is a significant indicator of quality. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to provide coordinated care.

The closest hospital with a dedicated breast center would be **Canton-Potsdam Hospital** as part of St. Lawrence Health. It is essential to confirm whether the center is NAPBC accredited.

**Telehealth and Remote Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for patients in rural areas. It offers convenient access to specialists, follow-up appointments, and support services.

**Canton-Potsdam Hospital** as part of St. Lawrence Health, likely offers some telehealth services. Patients should inquire about virtual consultations with oncologists, breast surgeons, and other specialists. The availability of remote monitoring programs, which allow patients to track their symptoms and communicate with their care team remotely, should also be investigated.

**Emergency Room Considerations**

ER wait times are a critical factor, especially for patients experiencing acute symptoms or complications related to breast cancer treatment.

**Canton-Potsdam Hospital** ER wait times should be researched on hospital websites or through third-party services. It's important to understand that wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall volume of patients.

**Additional Considerations**

* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** While not a definitive measure of quality, patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can offer patient feedback on hospitals and physicians. However, it's important to remember that reviews are subjective and may not always reflect the full scope of care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists accept your insurance plan. This is a crucial step to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
* **Support Services:** Breast cancer treatment often requires a wide range of support services, including counseling, support groups, and financial assistance. Inquire about the availability of these services at each hospital.
* **Clinical Trials:** Consider whether the hospital participates in clinical trials. Clinical trials offer access to cutting-edge treatments and may be an option for some patients.

**Summary and Recommendations**

For individuals residing near ZIP code 13667, **Canton-Potsdam Hospital** appears to be the primary healthcare provider. Patients should directly contact the hospital to confirm the presence of a dedicated breast center and its accreditation status. Inquiries should also be made regarding telehealth services, ER wait times, and the availability of comprehensive support services.

**Disclaimer:** This review is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers to determine the best course of treatment for their individual needs. Hospital ratings and service offerings can change, so it is essential to verify the information directly with the hospital.