13859, Wells Bridge, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13859, Wells Bridge, New York is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care: A Scorecard for Hospitals Near ZIP Code 13859

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is a daunting journey. Access to quality care, from early detection to advanced treatment, is paramount. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals near ZIP code 13859, focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer care, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information is intended to empower individuals in making informed decisions about their healthcare.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

ZIP code 13859, encompassing the Norwich, NY area, presents a landscape of healthcare options, primarily featuring smaller community hospitals and regional medical centers. Access to larger, specialized facilities often necessitates travel. This review will assess facilities within a reasonable driving distance, considering the importance of timely access to care during a breast cancer diagnosis.

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

Chenango Memorial Hospital, located directly within ZIP code 13859, serves as a primary access point for local healthcare. While not a designated flagship cancer center, the hospital offers essential services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Chenango Memorial Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, encompassing patient experience, safety, and efficiency.
* **Emergency Room:** Data on ER wait times can fluctuate. It's recommended to check the hospital's website or use online tools like Google to check recent ER wait times.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** Chenango Memorial offers diagnostic imaging, including mammography, and surgical services. For more complex cases, patients may be referred to larger regional centers.
* **Telehealth:** The hospital is likely to offer some telehealth options, especially for follow-up appointments or consultations with specialists. Check the hospital's website for specific telehealth offerings.

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

Approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Norwich, Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse represents a significant regional resource. As a major teaching hospital, it boasts a wider range of specialized services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Upstate University Hospital holds a 3-star CMS rating.
* **Emergency Room:** ER wait times can vary. Check online resources for the most current information.
* **Specialty Centers:** Upstate University Hospital features a comprehensive cancer center, offering multidisciplinary care for various cancers, including breast cancer. This center likely includes medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive services.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** The hospital provides advanced diagnostic imaging, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), biopsies, and a full spectrum of surgical options, including breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy. Reconstructive surgery is also available.
* **Telehealth:** Upstate University Hospital has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and potentially remote monitoring for patients. Check their website for specific telehealth services.

**St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center (Syracuse, NY)**

Also located in Syracuse, St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center offers another option for breast cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center holds a 3-star CMS rating.
* **Emergency Room:** ER wait times can vary. Check online resources for the most current information.
* **Specialty Centers:** St. Joseph's has a cancer center that provides comprehensive breast cancer care.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** The hospital provides diagnostic imaging, surgical options, and other treatments.
* **Telehealth:** St. Joseph's offers telehealth services.

**Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital (Cooperstown, NY)**

Approximately a 1-hour drive from Norwich, Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown provides another regional option.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital holds a 3-star CMS rating.
* **Emergency Room:** ER wait times can vary. Check online resources for the most current information.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** The hospital offers diagnostic imaging, surgical services, and potentially medical oncology services.
* **Telehealth:** Bassett Healthcare Network has a telehealth program.

**Key Metrics: A Deeper Dive**

Beyond the basic hospital profiles, several key metrics are crucial in evaluating breast cancer care quality.

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC). This accreditation signifies adherence to rigorous standards of care, including multidisciplinary treatment planning, clinical trials, and patient support services.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Effective breast cancer care requires a team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurses. Assess whether the hospital promotes a multidisciplinary approach, with regular tumor board meetings to discuss patient cases.
* **Surgical Options:** The availability of various surgical options, including breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) and different types of mastectomy, is essential. Inquire about the hospital's experience with oncoplastic surgery, which combines cancer removal with reconstructive techniques.
* **Radiation Therapy:** Access to advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), can improve treatment outcomes and reduce side effects.
* **Medical Oncology:** The availability of medical oncology services, including chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy, is critical for treating advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials offers patients access to cutting-edge treatments and can improve outcomes. Inquire about the hospital's involvement in breast cancer clinical trials.
* **Patient Support Services:** Breast cancer treatment can be emotionally and physically challenging. Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, including patient navigators, support groups, counseling, and rehabilitation services.
* **Telehealth Integration:** Telehealth can enhance access to care, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring. Assess the hospital's telehealth capabilities, including the availability of virtual appointments with specialists and remote monitoring programs.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially in the initial stages of diagnosis and treatment. While this information is dynamic, check online resources for the most current data. Consider the potential impact of longer wait times on anxiety and the timely initiation of diagnostic procedures.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telehealth offers virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for frequent travel. Assess the telehealth capabilities of each hospital, including the availability of virtual appointments with specialists and remote monitoring programs.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides a framework for evaluating hospitals near ZIP code 13859. Consider the factors discussed, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and the availability of comprehensive services. It's essential to consult with your primary care physician, seek referrals from trusted sources, and schedule consultations with specialists to determine the best fit for your individual needs. Remember to ask questions, gather information, and advocate for your own health.