13834, Portlandville, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13834, Portlandville, New York is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Vicinity of ZIP Code 13834: A Detailed Review

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires access to high-quality medical care. For residents near ZIP code 13834 (Norwich, NY), understanding the available resources is crucial. This review analyzes hospitals in the region, focusing on their breast cancer services, overall performance, and accessibility.

**Defining the Landscape**

The immediate area around Norwich, NY, is primarily served by smaller community hospitals and regional medical centers. While large, nationally recognized cancer centers might be further afield, the local options offer a range of services, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care. The quality of care can vary, so this review provides a detailed look at the key players.

**Chenango Memorial Hospital (Norwich, NY)**

Chenango Memorial Hospital, located directly in Norwich, is a primary care facility that offers some breast cancer services. As a smaller community hospital, it provides basic screening mammography and potentially some initial diagnostic procedures. However, for complex cases or advanced treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy, patients are typically referred to larger facilities. Chenango Memorial Hospital's CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating is a key indicator of overall quality. CMS star ratings, ranging from one to five stars, reflect a hospital's performance across various quality measures. These measures include patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. It's important to check the most recent CMS data, as ratings can fluctuate. ER wait times are also important to consider. While specific wait times vary, it is recommended to check the hospital's website or other online sources to get an idea of the typical wait times.

**Bassett Medical Center (Cooperstown, NY)**

Approximately a 45-minute drive from Norwich, Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown is a significant regional healthcare provider. Bassett offers a more comprehensive approach to breast cancer care compared to Chenango Memorial. They have a dedicated cancer center, which provides a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and breast radiologists. Bassett is a flagship hospital in the region and typically has a higher CMS star rating than Chenango Memorial. The hospital’s cancer center often participates in clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments. Bassett also provides advanced imaging services, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and breast MRI. The hospital's ER wait times should be considered, and are available on their website.

**Upstate University Hospital (Syracuse, NY)**

Located in Syracuse, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Norwich, Upstate University Hospital is a major tertiary care center. As a university hospital, Upstate has a strong research focus and offers a wide range of specialized services, including advanced surgical techniques, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. Upstate has a dedicated cancer institute with a multidisciplinary team. The hospital's CMS star rating is an important factor to consider. Upstate's ER wait times should be checked before visiting.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond the core hospitals, several specialty centers and programs contribute to breast cancer care in the region. These include:

* **Breast Imaging Centers:** These centers focus specifically on breast imaging, providing mammograms, ultrasounds, and breast MRI. They often offer same-day appointments and specialized expertise in breast imaging interpretation.
* **Surgical Oncology Practices:** Surgical oncologists specialize in the surgical treatment of cancer. They work closely with medical oncologists and radiation oncologists to develop comprehensive treatment plans.
* **Medical Oncology Practices:** Medical oncologists specialize in the medical treatment of cancer, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. They often provide ongoing care and support for patients undergoing treatment.
* **Radiation Oncology Centers:** Radiation oncologists use radiation therapy to treat cancer. These centers offer advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
* **Supportive Care Programs:** Breast cancer treatment can have significant side effects. Supportive care programs offer services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, nutritional counseling, and psychological support to help patients manage these side effects and improve their quality of life.

**Telehealth and Accessibility**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, especially in rural areas. Many hospitals and specialty practices offer telehealth services for consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care for patients who live far from major medical centers or who have difficulty traveling. Hospitals like Bassett and Upstate have expanded their telehealth offerings, providing virtual appointments for various specialties. Telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual visits and patient satisfaction rates, are often available on hospital websites.

**ER Wait Times and Access to Care**

ER wait times are a critical factor, especially in emergency situations. Patients should be aware of typical wait times at local hospitals. Real-time wait time information is often available on hospital websites or through online platforms. However, these times can fluctuate.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of healthcare. Hospitals often collect patient satisfaction data through surveys. The results of these surveys, which assess factors like communication with doctors, nursing care, and overall satisfaction, are often available on hospital websites or through third-party review sites.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

Access to clinical trials is an important consideration for breast cancer patients. Clinical trials offer access to cutting-edge treatments and may improve outcomes. Larger hospitals, like Bassett and Upstate, often participate in clinical trials. Information about ongoing trials is usually available on the hospital's website or through the cancer center.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care involves considering several factors:

* **Stage and Type of Cancer:** The complexity of the cancer and the stage of the disease will influence the level of care required.
* **Treatment Options:** The availability of specific treatment options, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials, is important.
* **Specialist Expertise:** The expertise of the medical team, including surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists, is critical.
* **Patient Experience:** The overall patient experience, including communication, support, and access to resources, should be considered.
* **Location and Accessibility:** The distance to the hospital and the ease of access are important factors, especially for patients who need frequent appointments.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and the specialists are in your insurance network.

**Conclusion**

For residents near ZIP code 13834, accessing quality breast cancer care involves understanding the strengths and limitations of the local hospitals and specialty centers. Chenango Memorial Hospital provides basic services, while Bassett Medical Center offers a more comprehensive approach. Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse provides access to advanced treatments and research. Patients should carefully evaluate their individual needs and preferences, considering factors such as their stage of cancer, treatment preferences, and access to care. Consulting with a primary care physician and seeking referrals to specialists is essential to ensure the best possible care. Thorough research, including checking CMS star ratings, reviewing ER wait times, and exploring telehealth options, will help patients make informed decisions about their breast cancer treatment journey.