13692, Thousand Island Park, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13692, Thousand Island Park, New York is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the 13692 Area: A Scorecard of Options

The ZIP code 13692, encompassing the Watertown, New York area, presents a landscape of healthcare options for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis. This review delves into the key players, assessing their strengths and weaknesses based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to help patients and their families navigate the complexities of choosing the right care.

**The Anchor: Samaritan Medical Center**

Samaritan Medical Center, located within the 13692 ZIP code, serves as the primary hospital for Watertown residents. As a community hospital, its role is crucial in providing accessible care. While specific CMS star ratings can fluctuate, it's essential to check the most recent data on the CMS website (Medicare.gov) for the most up-to-date assessment of overall hospital quality. This rating considers various factors, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

Samaritan Medical Center offers a range of services relevant to breast cancer care. Patients should inquire about the availability of a dedicated breast center, which often provides a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists. Key questions to ask include the availability of advanced imaging techniques like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and the integration of genetic counseling services.

ER wait times are a critical consideration for any healthcare facility. While specific wait times fluctuate, patients can often find average wait time data on hospital websites or through resources like the Healthgrades website. Shorter wait times generally indicate a more efficient emergency department, which can be crucial in urgent situations.

**Beyond Watertown: Exploring Regional Centers**

For more specialized care, patients in the 13692 area may consider hospitals located further afield. This necessitates a willingness to travel, but the potential benefits can be significant, especially in complex cases.

**Upstate University Hospital (Syracuse, NY): A Regional Powerhouse**

Approximately 75 miles south of Watertown, Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse represents a major regional referral center. Upstate University Hospital is a teaching hospital, which often translates to access to cutting-edge treatments and research. CMS star ratings are a valuable indicator of quality, and patients should consult the most recent data on Medicare.gov.

Upstate University Hospital boasts a comprehensive cancer center, typically offering a full spectrum of breast cancer services. This includes surgical oncology, medical oncology (chemotherapy and targeted therapies), radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery. Patients should investigate the availability of clinical trials, which can provide access to innovative treatments.

Telehealth services are increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Inquire about the availability of telehealth appointments for oncology-related care, which can reduce the need for frequent travel.

**Crouse Hospital (Syracuse, NY): Another Syracuse Option**

Also located in Syracuse, Crouse Hospital provides another option for breast cancer care. Like Upstate University Hospital, Crouse Hospital offers a comprehensive cancer program. Patients should compare the specific services offered, including the types of surgical procedures performed, the availability of radiation therapy techniques (e.g., IMRT, stereotactic radiosurgery), and the scope of support services (e.g., patient navigation, support groups).

ER wait times are another critical factor to consider. Patients can often find average wait time data on hospital websites or through resources like the Healthgrades website.

**Ellis Medicine (Schenectady, NY): A Further Option**

Ellis Medicine, located in Schenectady, NY, is another option for patients in the 13692 area. The hospital is a member of the Albany Med Health System. Ellis Medicine offers a comprehensive cancer center. Patients should inquire about the availability of a dedicated breast center, which often provides a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists. Key questions to ask include the availability of advanced imaging techniques like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and the integration of genetic counseling services.

**Key Considerations: Beyond the Hospital Walls**

Choosing a hospital is only the first step. Several other factors contribute to the overall quality of breast cancer care.

**The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach:** A multidisciplinary team, consisting of surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists, is crucial for optimal care. This team collaborates to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to the individual patient's needs.

**Surgical Expertise:** Inquire about the experience of the surgeons performing breast cancer surgery. Ask about the types of procedures offered, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive options.

**Medical Oncology and Chemotherapy:** Assess the availability of medical oncologists and the range of chemotherapy and targeted therapies offered. Investigate the availability of supportive care services, such as nausea management and pain control.

**Radiation Oncology:** Evaluate the radiation oncology department's capabilities, including the types of radiation therapy techniques offered (e.g., IMRT, stereotactic radiosurgery).

**Imaging and Diagnostics:** Ensure the hospital has access to advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography, MRI, and PET scans, for accurate diagnosis and staging.

**Genetic Counseling and Testing:** Consider the availability of genetic counseling and testing, particularly if there is a family history of breast cancer or other cancers.

**Patient Navigation and Support Services:** Patient navigators can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing emotional support, and connecting patients with resources.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:** The availability of telehealth services for follow-up appointments and consultations can be a significant convenience, especially for patients who live far from the hospital.

**Clinical Trials:** Consider the availability of clinical trials, which can provide access to innovative treatments.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Metric:**

ER wait times are a crucial indicator of a hospital's efficiency. While specific wait times fluctuate, patients can often find average wait time data on hospital websites or through resources like the Healthgrades website. Shorter wait times generally indicate a more efficient emergency department, which can be crucial in urgent situations.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Valuable Guide:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals, providing a valuable benchmark of quality. These ratings consider a range of factors, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. Patients should consult the most recent data on the CMS website (Medicare.gov) for the most up-to-date assessment of overall hospital quality.

**Navigating the Choices: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a deeply personal decision. This review provides a framework for evaluating the options near the 13692 ZIP code, but the best choice will depend on individual needs and preferences. Patients should gather as much information as possible, ask detailed questions, and consider factors beyond the hospital's location, including the expertise of the medical team, the availability of specialized services, and the overall quality of care.