14454, Geneseo, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 14454, Geneseo, New York is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Finger Lakes: A Scorecard for 14454

Finding the right care for breast cancer is a deeply personal and critical journey. For residents of Canandaigua, NY, and the surrounding area (ZIP code 14454), access to high-quality medical facilities is paramount. This review provides a fact-rich overview of the hospitals and resources available, offering a scorecard to help navigate the complexities of breast cancer treatment. We'll examine key factors like hospital ratings, wait times, specialized centers, and the availability of telehealth options.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality of care, patient experience, and other metrics. These ratings offer a valuable, albeit imperfect, benchmark. In the vicinity of 14454, the landscape is dominated by two major players: UR Medicine Thompson Health and Strong Memorial Hospital.

UR Medicine Thompson Health, located in Canandaigua, is a community hospital serving the immediate area. As of the latest publicly available data, it does not have a CMS star rating. However, it's important to note that CMS star ratings are not always a complete reflection of the quality of care provided, especially for smaller, community-focused hospitals.

Strong Memorial Hospital, part of the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), is a larger, tertiary care facility located in Rochester, approximately a 45-minute drive from Canandaigua. Strong Memorial consistently receives a respectable CMS star rating, typically in the 3-4 star range. This indicates a generally good level of quality and patient experience, though it's crucial to remember that individual experiences can vary.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Consideration:**

ER wait times can be a significant factor, especially in an emergency. While data can fluctuate, understanding average wait times can help inform decisions. Data on ER wait times is publicly available through various sources, including the CMS Hospital Compare website and third-party platforms.

For UR Medicine Thompson Health, ER wait times are generally shorter, reflecting its community hospital status. Expect average wait times to be in the range of 30-60 minutes.

Strong Memorial Hospital, being a larger facility, often experiences longer wait times. Depending on the time of day and the severity of the situation, wait times can range from 1-2 hours or even longer. It is crucial to note that these are averages, and individual experiences may differ.

**Specialty Centers: Expertise in Breast Cancer:**

Specialized centers are vital for comprehensive breast cancer care. These centers typically offer multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurses, working collaboratively to provide personalized treatment plans.

UR Medicine Thompson Health has a dedicated Breast Care Program, which provides a range of services including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, and surgical consultations. While it is a community hospital, its proximity and familiarity with the local patient population are a significant advantage.

Strong Memorial Hospital boasts the Wilmot Cancer Institute, a nationally recognized cancer center. The Wilmot Cancer Institute provides a comprehensive breast cancer program with access to cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and specialized expertise. This includes advanced imaging technologies, surgical options, radiation therapy, and medical oncology services. The Wilmot Cancer Institute is a major draw for patients seeking access to the most advanced care options.

**Imaging and Diagnostics: The Foundation of Early Detection:**

Early detection is key in breast cancer treatment. Access to advanced imaging technologies is therefore crucial.

UR Medicine Thompson Health offers mammography services, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of small cancers. They also provide breast ultrasound and, if necessary, breast biopsies.

Strong Memorial Hospital's imaging capabilities are more extensive, including state-of-the-art mammography, MRI, and PET/CT scans. The Wilmot Cancer Institute utilizes advanced imaging techniques to provide accurate diagnoses and staging of breast cancer.

**Surgical Options and Expertise:**

Surgical expertise is a cornerstone of breast cancer treatment. The availability of skilled surgeons and a range of surgical options is a critical factor.

UR Medicine Thompson Health offers breast cancer surgery, including lumpectomy and mastectomy. Surgical oncologists are available to perform these procedures.

Strong Memorial Hospital, through the Wilmot Cancer Institute, provides a broader range of surgical options, including complex breast reconstruction procedures. The hospital has a team of highly specialized breast surgeons with extensive experience in various surgical techniques.

**Radiation Therapy: Precision and Innovation:**

Radiation therapy plays a vital role in many breast cancer treatment plans. Access to advanced radiation therapy technologies is important.

UR Medicine Thompson Health does not offer radiation therapy on-site. Patients requiring radiation therapy are typically referred to Strong Memorial Hospital or other regional facilities.

Strong Memorial Hospital has a comprehensive radiation oncology department with advanced technologies, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT). The Wilmot Cancer Institute also offers brachytherapy, a form of internal radiation therapy.

**Medical Oncology: Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapies:**

Medical oncologists are crucial in developing and administering chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.

UR Medicine Thompson Health provides medical oncology services, including chemotherapy infusions and consultations. Patients can receive their chemotherapy treatments close to home.

Strong Memorial Hospital's medical oncology program, part of the Wilmot Cancer Institute, offers a wide range of chemotherapy regimens, targeted therapies, and access to clinical trials. The Wilmot Cancer Institute is at the forefront of cancer research and treatment.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support services.

UR Medicine Thompson Health offers telehealth options for certain services, including follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists. This can be especially helpful for patients who live in more rural areas.

Strong Memorial Hospital has significantly expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and support groups. The Wilmot Cancer Institute utilizes telehealth to provide access to specialists and to facilitate communication between patients and their care teams.

**Support Services: A Holistic Approach:**

Breast cancer treatment involves more than just medical care. Access to support services is essential for patients' well-being.

UR Medicine Thompson Health offers support services, including patient navigators, support groups, and resources for financial assistance.

Strong Memorial Hospital, through the Wilmot Cancer Institute, provides a comprehensive range of support services, including social work, psychological counseling, nutritional counseling, and survivorship programs. The Wilmot Cancer Institute also offers support groups and educational resources for patients and their families.

**Navigating the Choices: A Personalized Approach:**

Choosing the right breast cancer care facility is a deeply personal decision. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and the specific stage and type of your cancer. Proximity to your home, the availability of specialized services, and the level of support offered are all important factors.

For residents of the 14454 ZIP code, UR Medicine Thompson Health provides accessible, community-based care. Strong Memorial Hospital, with its Wilmot Cancer Institute, offers a broader range of specialized services and access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

This review provides a starting point for your research. We strongly encourage you to:

* **Consult with your primary care physician:** They can provide referrals and guidance.
* **Gather information:** Visit hospital websites, review patient testimonials, and research physician credentials.
* **Ask questions:** Don't hesitate to ask questions about treatment options, costs, and support services.
* **Trust your instincts:** Choose the facility and care team that feels right for you.

Breast cancer treatment is a journey. By understanding the resources available and making informed decisions, you can navigate this journey with confidence and receive the best possible care.