13687, South Colton, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13687, South Colton, New York is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the North Country: A Scorecard for ZIP Code 13687

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan is a daunting task. For residents of ZIP Code 13687 (Watertown, New York, and surrounding areas), access to quality care is paramount. This review examines the key healthcare providers in the region, focusing on their capabilities in breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support, with a particular eye on factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options.

**The Regional Landscape:**

The healthcare landscape in and around Watertown is dominated by Samaritan Medical Center. While larger metropolitan areas offer a wider array of specialized cancer centers, the choices in this region are more limited. This review will focus primarily on Samaritan Medical Center and its associated services, providing a critical assessment of its offerings.

**Samaritan Medical Center: The Core Provider**

Samaritan Medical Center is the primary hospital serving the Watertown area. It is a critical access hospital, meaning it receives special Medicare funding due to its location in a rural area. As of the latest available data, Samaritan Medical Center does not have a CMS star rating. These ratings, based on a complex set of metrics including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience, are a crucial indicator of overall hospital quality. The absence of a star rating necessitates a deeper dive into other metrics to assess the hospital's performance in breast cancer care.

**Breast Cancer Services at Samaritan:**

Samaritan Medical Center offers a range of breast cancer services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The hospital's imaging services include mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, which are essential for early detection and diagnosis. The availability of these services locally minimizes the need for patients to travel long distances for crucial screenings.

**Surgical Oncology:**

Surgical oncology is a critical component of breast cancer treatment. Samaritan Medical Center has surgeons specializing in breast cancer surgery, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and sentinel node biopsy. The skill and experience of the surgical team are vital to successful outcomes. Patients should inquire about the surgeons' specific experience and the volume of breast cancer surgeries performed annually.

**Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy:**

Samaritan Medical Center provides chemotherapy and radiation therapy services. Chemotherapy is typically administered in an outpatient setting, while radiation therapy often requires daily treatments over several weeks. The availability of these services locally is a significant advantage, reducing travel burdens for patients undergoing treatment. The hospital’s oncology department should be assessed for its patient support services, including access to social workers, support groups, and financial assistance programs.

**ER Wait Times and Access:**

ER wait times are a crucial factor in overall patient experience. While not directly related to breast cancer care, long wait times can impact a patient’s ability to access care promptly if they experience complications or side effects from treatment. Publicly available data on ER wait times at Samaritan Medical Center should be consulted to understand the typical wait times. Shorter wait times generally indicate a more efficient and accessible emergency department.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Samaritan Medical Center may have specialized programs or centers focused on cancer care. These programs often offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, nurses, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care. Patients should inquire about the availability of such programs and the specific services they offer.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services for follow-up appointments, medication management, and support groups. Remote monitoring technologies, such as wearable devices, can also be used to track patient symptoms and provide early warnings of potential complications. The availability of these technologies can improve patient outcomes and reduce the need for in-person visits.

**Beyond Samaritan: Limited Options**

Due to the rural nature of the region, alternative options for breast cancer care are limited. Patients may need to travel to larger cities, such as Syracuse or Rochester, for specialized services or second opinions. These trips can add significant travel time and expense to an already challenging situation.

**Flagship Hospital Comparison: Syracuse and Rochester**

For those seeking more specialized care, the major hospitals in Syracuse and Rochester offer a broader range of services. These hospitals are often associated with larger cancer centers and research institutions.

**Upstate University Hospital (Syracuse):**

Upstate University Hospital, located in Syracuse, is a major teaching hospital and a regional referral center. They have a comprehensive cancer center with a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care. They have a CMS star rating, which can be a useful data point for comparison. Their ER wait times are generally longer than smaller hospitals.

**Strong Memorial Hospital (Rochester):**

Strong Memorial Hospital, part of the University of Rochester Medical Center, is another flagship hospital with a strong reputation in cancer care. They also have a CMS star rating. They offer a wide range of specialized services, including clinical trials and advanced treatment options. ER wait times are also generally longer.

**Comparing the Options:**

When comparing the options, patients should consider the following factors:

* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized services, such as genetic counseling, reconstructive surgery, and clinical trials.
* **Physician Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the medical team, including surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists.
* **Patient Support Services:** The availability of support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs.
* **Travel Distance:** The distance to the hospital and the ease of access.
* **Insurance Coverage:** The hospital's acceptance of the patient's insurance plan.
* **ER Wait Times:** The average wait times in the emergency department.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** The hospital’s overall quality rating based on patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

**Navigating the System:**

Patients diagnosed with breast cancer in the 13687 ZIP code should work closely with their primary care physician to develop a treatment plan. They should also seek referrals to specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons. Patients should ask questions, seek second opinions, and advocate for their own care.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of ZIP Code 13687, Samaritan Medical Center is the primary provider of breast cancer care. While the hospital offers essential services, the lack of a CMS star rating and the limited availability of specialized programs necessitate a thorough evaluation of its offerings. Patients should actively inquire about the experience of the medical team, the availability of support services, and the hospital’s commitment to providing comprehensive care. For those seeking more specialized services, the larger hospitals in Syracuse and Rochester offer a wider range of options, but at the cost of increased travel and potential wait times. Careful consideration of these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about breast cancer treatment and ensuring the best possible outcomes.