13760, Endicott, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13760, Endicott, New York is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Binghamton Area: A Scorecard for Patients

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan is a daunting task. For residents near ZIP code 13760 (Binghamton, NY), access to quality care is paramount. This review examines the breast cancer services offered by hospitals in and around the area, focusing on factors critical to patient outcomes and experience. We'll delve into hospital ratings, wait times, specialized centers, and the availability of telehealth options, providing a snapshot to aid informed decision-making.

**Flagship Hospitals and Overall Performance:**

The primary hospital serving the Binghamton area is **United Health Services (UHS) Hospitals**. UHS is a multi-hospital system, and its flagship hospital, **UHS Wilson Medical Center** in Johnson City, is a central point for advanced medical care. However, the specific CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating for UHS Wilson Medical Center fluctuates. As of the latest publicly available data, the rating may vary, so patients should consult the CMS Hospital Compare website for the most up-to-date information. This rating reflects a composite score based on various factors, including patient experience, safety, and effectiveness of care.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

Emergency room wait times can significantly impact a patient's experience, especially when dealing with potential complications or urgent needs related to breast cancer treatment. UHS Wilson Medical Center's ER wait times are a key consideration. Publicly available data, such as that provided by the CMS, can offer insights into average wait times. However, these times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall patient volume. Patients should be prepared for potential delays and consider the urgency of their situation when seeking ER care.

**Specialty Centers and Comprehensive Care:**

UHS Wilson Medical Center houses a comprehensive cancer center, often encompassing a dedicated breast cancer program. These programs typically offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together specialists from various fields to provide coordinated care. This includes medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and supportive care staff. The presence of a dedicated breast cancer center is a significant advantage, as it often indicates a commitment to specialized expertise and advanced treatment options. Patients should inquire about the center's specific services, including:

* **Diagnostic Imaging:** Mammography, 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast ultrasound, and MRI are crucial for early detection and diagnosis. The availability of advanced imaging technologies is a key indicator of a center's capabilities.
* **Surgical Options:** Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy), mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery are common surgical options. Patients should inquire about the surgeons' experience and the availability of different surgical techniques.
* **Medical Oncology:** Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy are essential treatment modalities. The center should have experienced medical oncologists who can tailor treatment plans to individual patient needs.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Radiation therapy is often used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. The center should have access to advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
* **Supportive Services:** Counseling, support groups, physical therapy, and nutritional counseling are essential for managing the physical and emotional challenges of breast cancer treatment.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for patients who may have difficulty traveling to appointments or who live in rural areas. UHS and other healthcare providers in the area may offer telehealth services for various aspects of breast cancer care, including:

* **Consultations:** Virtual consultations with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists can provide patients with convenient access to expert advice.
* **Follow-up Appointments:** Telehealth can be used for routine follow-up appointments after surgery or treatment.
* **Support Groups:** Virtual support groups can provide patients with a sense of community and emotional support.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Some providers may offer remote monitoring of patients' symptoms and vital signs.

The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who live in areas with limited access to healthcare providers. Patients should inquire about the specific telehealth services offered by each provider.

**Other Hospitals and Considerations:**

While UHS Wilson Medical Center is the primary provider in the area, patients should also consider other hospitals that may offer specialized services or second opinions. Some patients may choose to travel to larger medical centers outside of the immediate Binghamton area, such as those in Syracuse or New York City, for access to specific treatments or clinical trials.

**Specific Questions to Ask:**

When choosing a hospital or breast cancer program, patients should ask specific questions, including:

* What is the hospital's experience with treating breast cancer?
* What types of breast cancer treatment options are available?
* What is the hospital's patient satisfaction rating?
* What are the ER wait times?
* Does the hospital offer telehealth services?
* What support services are available to patients?
* What is the hospital's infection control record?

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient experience and satisfaction are crucial indicators of quality care. Patients should research online reviews, talk to other patients, and consider the overall atmosphere of the hospital and the breast cancer program. Factors to consider include:

* **Communication:** How well do doctors and nurses communicate with patients?
* **Empathy:** Do healthcare providers show empathy and compassion?
* **Coordination of Care:** Is care well-coordinated between different specialists?
* **Waiting Times:** Are waiting times reasonable for appointments and procedures?
* **Overall Experience:** How satisfied are patients with their overall experience?

**Conclusion:**

For residents near ZIP code 13760, UHS Wilson Medical Center is the primary healthcare provider for breast cancer care. However, patients should conduct thorough research, consider their individual needs, and ask specific questions to make informed decisions about their care. Evaluating the hospital's CMS star rating, ER wait times, the presence of a dedicated breast cancer center, the availability of telehealth services, and patient reviews are all essential components of this process. By carefully considering these factors, patients can choose the hospital and breast cancer program that best meets their needs and provides the highest quality of care. Remember that this review provides a starting point, and it is essential to consult with your primary care physician and other healthcare professionals to determine the best course of action for your individual circumstances.