14516, North Rose, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 14516, North Rose, New York is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care in the Finger Lakes: A Hospital Scorecard Near 14516**

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan is a complex journey. Proximity to quality healthcare is a critical factor, and for residents near ZIP code 14516 (Canandaigua, NY), several hospitals offer varying levels of care. This review examines the key players, focusing on factors crucial for informed decision-making: CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**Strong Contenders: Rochester's Flagship Hospitals**

The most significant healthcare resources for 14516 residents lie in Rochester, a short drive away. The University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), including Strong Memorial Hospital, stands out as a major player. Strong Memorial is a large, tertiary care center and a Level I trauma center, offering a comprehensive range of services. While the CMS star rating is a general indicator, it's important to note that Strong Memorial has a 3-star rating as of late 2023. This rating reflects performance across various metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. ER wait times at Strong Memorial can fluctuate, so checking real-time data via their website or third-party sites is advisable.

URMC's Wilmot Cancer Institute is a dedicated cancer center, and a significant draw for breast cancer patients. Wilmot offers multidisciplinary care, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive services. They also participate in clinical trials, providing access to cutting-edge treatments. Telehealth services are increasingly available through URMC, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be particularly beneficial for patients in outlying areas.

Another major Rochester hospital, Rochester General Hospital (RGH), part of Rochester Regional Health, also provides breast cancer care. RGH has a 3-star CMS rating. RGH's Lipson Cancer Institute provides comprehensive cancer care, including breast cancer treatment. Like Wilmot, Lipson offers a range of specialists and supportive services. ER wait times at RGH are also variable, and it's wise to check current wait times online before heading to the emergency room. Telehealth options are also available through Rochester Regional Health, expanding access to care.

**Regional Options: Smaller Hospitals and Their Strengths**

While Rochester's hospitals are the primary hubs, smaller hospitals closer to 14516 offer options for certain aspects of care. Thompson Health in Canandaigua, NY, is a local hospital that provides a range of services. Thompson Health has a 3-star CMS rating. While not a comprehensive cancer center like Wilmot or Lipson, Thompson Health offers breast imaging services, including mammograms and potentially other diagnostic tests. They may also provide some chemotherapy services and have relationships with Rochester-based specialists for more complex cases. ER wait times at Thompson Health are typically shorter than at the larger Rochester hospitals.

Geneva General Hospital, part of Geneva General Hospital, is another option. Geneva General has a 3-star CMS rating. Geneva General offers breast imaging and potentially some initial diagnostic services. Patients needing more advanced treatment would likely be referred to Rochester. ER wait times at Geneva General are typically shorter than at the larger Rochester hospitals.

**Specialized Centers and Programs: Focus on Breast Cancer Care**

The presence of dedicated breast centers is a significant indicator of a hospital's commitment to breast cancer care. Wilmot Cancer Institute and Lipson Cancer Institute both have specialized breast cancer programs. These programs often involve a multidisciplinary team of physicians, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and nurses. They also frequently offer support services such as genetic counseling, patient navigation, and survivorship programs.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for patients in rural or semi-rural areas. URMC and Rochester Regional Health both offer telehealth services for cancer patients. This can include virtual consultations with oncologists, follow-up appointments, and even some support group meetings. Telehealth can reduce the need for frequent travel to Rochester, which is a significant benefit for patients living near 14516.

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Consideration**

ER wait times are a practical consideration for anyone needing urgent medical care. While wait times can fluctuate, it's generally true that larger, tertiary care centers like Strong Memorial Hospital tend to have longer wait times than smaller hospitals like Thompson Health or Geneva General Hospital. Websites like wait times.net and others provide real-time estimates. However, it's crucial to remember that these are estimates and can change based on the volume of patients and the severity of their conditions.

**CMS Star Ratings: A General Guide**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. They are based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety, patient experience, and efficiency. While a higher star rating generally indicates better overall performance, it's important to understand that the ratings are just one piece of the puzzle. It's essential to consider other factors, such as the availability of specialized services, the expertise of the medical staff, and the patient's individual needs.

**Patient Experience: Beyond the Numbers**

Patient experience is a critical aspect of healthcare. This includes the quality of communication with doctors and nurses, the responsiveness of the staff, and the overall comfort of the hospital environment. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience at different hospitals. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals.com offer patient reviews and ratings.

**Making the Right Choice: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a highly personal decision. Residents near 14516 have several options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Factors to consider include the stage and type of cancer, the patient's overall health, the availability of specialized services, the proximity of the hospital, and the patient's personal preferences. Consulting with a primary care physician or a breast cancer specialist is essential to develop a personalized treatment plan and choose the most appropriate hospital for care.

**Conclusion: A Landscape of Options**

The area near 14516 offers a diverse landscape of healthcare options for breast cancer patients. Rochester's flagship hospitals, URMC (Strong Memorial and Wilmot Cancer Institute) and Rochester General Hospital (Lipson Cancer Institute), provide comprehensive care and access to advanced treatments. Smaller hospitals like Thompson Health and Geneva General Hospital offer local options for certain services. Telehealth is expanding access to care, and patient experience is a crucial consideration. By carefully evaluating the available options and consulting with healthcare professionals, residents near 14516 can make informed decisions and receive the best possible care for their breast cancer journey.