14468, Hilton, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 14468, Hilton, New York is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP Code 14468)

Finding the right breast cancer care is a deeply personal journey, and location plays a crucial role. This review focuses on hospitals and resources accessible to residents near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP Code 14468), offering a fact-rich assessment to aid informed decision-making. We'll examine key factors like hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility to paint a comprehensive picture.

**Flagship Hospital Landscape:**

The immediate vicinity of Canandaigua doesn't boast a sprawling network of flagship hospitals like those found in major metropolitan areas. However, several key institutions offer comprehensive care within a reasonable driving distance. These facilities are the cornerstones of breast cancer treatment in the region.

**Strong Memorial Hospital (Rochester, NY):**

Located in Rochester, Strong Memorial Hospital is a major player in the healthcare landscape. It's part of the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), a system renowned for its research and advanced medical capabilities. Strong Memorial has a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), indicating an average performance compared to other hospitals nationwide. CMS star ratings are based on a range of quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

Strong Memorial's breast cancer program is robust, offering a multidisciplinary approach. This means patients benefit from the expertise of surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists who collaborate on personalized treatment plans. They offer a full spectrum of services, from diagnostic imaging like mammograms and MRIs to advanced surgical techniques and radiation therapy. The hospital is also a major center for clinical trials, providing access to cutting-edge therapies.

**UR Medicine Thompson Health (Canandaigua, NY):**

Closer to home, UR Medicine Thompson Health in Canandaigua itself provides essential breast cancer services. While not a flagship hospital with the same breadth of resources as Strong Memorial, it offers critical services for local residents. Thompson Health has an impressive 4-star CMS rating, suggesting a higher level of quality compared to Strong Memorial.

Thompson Health's breast cancer program focuses on early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. They offer screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, and surgical options. Patients benefit from the expertise of local surgeons and oncologists. They also have a strong emphasis on patient support services, including counseling and survivorship programs. Patients often receive initial diagnosis and some treatment closer to home, with the option of referral to Strong Memorial for more complex cases or specialized therapies.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, especially during times of crisis. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, it's important to understand the general trends. Both Strong Memorial and Thompson Health have publicly available data on their ER wait times, which can be found on their respective websites or through resources like the Healthgrades website. Keep in mind that these are averages and can vary depending on the day and time.

Accessibility also encompasses travel time and ease of access. For residents of Canandaigua (14468), Thompson Health offers the convenience of local care, reducing travel burdens. Strong Memorial, while requiring a longer drive, offers a broader range of specialized services. Consider your individual needs and preferences when weighing these factors.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

Beyond general hospital services, specialized centers often offer a higher level of expertise in breast cancer care. Strong Memorial Hospital, being a major academic medical center, houses several specialized centers and programs. These include dedicated breast imaging centers, comprehensive cancer centers, and research programs focused on breast cancer.

Thompson Health, while not housing separate specialized centers, collaborates with specialists from Strong Memorial and other URMC facilities. This allows patients to access specialized expertise when needed.

**Telehealth and Remote Care:**

Telehealth has revolutionized healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Both Strong Memorial and Thompson Health have embraced telehealth to varying degrees. Telehealth can be utilized for consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational sessions.

Strong Memorial offers a robust telehealth program, allowing patients to connect with specialists remotely. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility limitations.

Thompson Health also offers telehealth services, although the scope may be more limited. Check with your physician to determine if telehealth is a viable option for your specific needs.

**Diagnostic Imaging and Screening:**

Early detection is paramount in breast cancer treatment. Both hospitals offer comprehensive diagnostic imaging services.

Strong Memorial boasts state-of-the-art imaging technology, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast MRI, and ultrasound. They have dedicated breast imaging centers with experienced radiologists.

Thompson Health also offers mammography, ultrasound, and other imaging modalities. They emphasize the importance of regular screenings and provide convenient access for local residents.

**Surgical Options and Treatment Modalities:**

Breast cancer treatment often involves surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Both hospitals offer a range of surgical options.

Strong Memorial offers a full spectrum of surgical procedures, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery. They have experienced breast surgeons specializing in various techniques. They also have advanced radiation therapy options, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). They offer chemotherapy and other systemic therapies.

Thompson Health provides surgical options, often in collaboration with surgeons from Strong Memorial. They also provide chemotherapy and other systemic therapies. Radiation therapy is typically provided at Strong Memorial or other affiliated facilities.

**Patient Support and Survivorship Programs:**

Breast cancer treatment is not just about medical procedures; it's a holistic journey. Both hospitals recognize the importance of patient support and survivorship programs.

Strong Memorial has comprehensive support services, including counseling, support groups, and educational programs. They offer resources to help patients navigate the emotional and practical challenges of cancer treatment.

Thompson Health also provides patient support services, including support groups, patient navigators, and survivorship programs. They focus on providing compassionate care and helping patients thrive after treatment.

**Clinical Trials and Research:**

Access to clinical trials can be a significant advantage for patients. Strong Memorial, being a major research institution, actively participates in breast cancer clinical trials. This provides patients with access to cutting-edge therapies and experimental treatments.

Thompson Health may offer access to clinical trials through its affiliation with Strong Memorial. Discuss this option with your oncologist to determine if it's appropriate for your situation.

**Insurance Coverage and Financial Considerations:**

Navigating insurance coverage and financial aspects of care is crucial. Both hospitals accept a wide range of insurance plans. Contact your insurance provider to verify coverage for specific services and treatments. Financial assistance programs may be available through the hospitals or other organizations.

**Making Informed Decisions:**

Choosing the right breast cancer care is a complex process. This review provides a factual overview of the available resources near Canandaigua, NY (14468). Consider the following factors when making your decision:

* **Hospital Quality:** Review CMS star ratings and other quality metrics.
* **Specialized Services:** Evaluate the availability of specialized centers and expertise.
* **Accessibility:** Consider travel time, ER wait times, and telehealth options.
* **Treatment Options:** Assess the range of surgical, radiation, and systemic therapies offered.
* **Patient Support:** Evaluate the availability of counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs.
* **Clinical Trials:** Determine if access to clinical trials is a priority.
* **Insurance and Finances:** Verify insurance coverage and explore financial assistance options.

Consult with your primary care physician, discuss your individual needs and preferences, and seek second opinions if necessary. By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and embark on your breast cancer journey with confidence. Remember that this review provides a starting point; personalized consultations with healthcare professionals are essential for creating a tailored treatment plan.