14519, Ontario, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 14519, Ontario, New York is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Finger Lakes: A Review for 14519

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is daunting. Finding the right care, close to home, is paramount. This review analyzes breast cancer care options near ZIP code 14519 (Canandaigua, NY), focusing on hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility. This is not medical advice; always consult with your physician for personalized recommendations.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Proximity**

The immediate vicinity of Canandaigua (14519) offers a concentrated network of healthcare providers. Proximity to Rochester, a major medical hub, provides access to advanced treatments and specialists. Key players include UR Medicine’s Strong Memorial Hospital, Thompson Health, and several smaller facilities.

**UR Medicine Strong Memorial Hospital: A Rochester Powerhouse**

Strong Memorial Hospital, located in Rochester, is a flagship facility and a dominant force in the region's healthcare landscape. It's a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Rochester. Strong Memorial consistently receives high marks for its comprehensive cancer care.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics:** Strong Memorial holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects its performance across various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While not a perfect indicator, it offers a general sense of the hospital's overall quality.

**Breast Cancer Specialty Centers:** Strong Memorial boasts a dedicated breast cancer center, offering a multidisciplinary approach. This means patients benefit from coordinated care from surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists. They have a robust breast imaging program, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI.

**Surgical Options and Expertise:** Strong Memorial's surgical team performs a wide range of breast cancer surgeries, including lumpectomies, mastectomies, and reconstructive procedures. They are known for their expertise in complex cases and their commitment to minimally invasive techniques when appropriate.

**Medical Oncology and Chemotherapy:** The hospital's medical oncology department provides chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies. They participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Radiation Oncology:** Strong Memorial has advanced radiation therapy capabilities, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy. They utilize techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to precisely target tumors while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Strong Memorial can fluctuate. The hospital's website and online resources provide real-time updates on wait times, allowing patients to make informed decisions. Average wait times are generally longer than at smaller community hospitals.

**Telehealth Integration:** Strong Memorial has significantly expanded its telehealth services, particularly during and after the pandemic. Telehealth appointments are available for follow-up consultations, medication management, and supportive care services. This can reduce the need for in-person visits, especially for patients living further away.

**Thompson Health: A Community-Focused Option**

Thompson Health, located in Canandaigua, is a community hospital that provides a more localized care experience. It offers a range of services, including breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics:** Thompson Health generally receives good ratings from CMS. The hospital’s focus is on providing high-quality care within a smaller, more personalized setting.

**Breast Cancer Specialty Centers:** Thompson Health has a dedicated breast health center, offering comprehensive breast care services, including screening mammograms, diagnostic imaging, and surgical consultations.

**Surgical Options and Expertise:** Thompson Health's surgical team performs breast cancer surgeries, including lumpectomies and mastectomies. They collaborate with specialists from other institutions when complex cases require advanced expertise.

**Medical Oncology and Chemotherapy:** Thompson Health offers medical oncology services, including chemotherapy and supportive care. Patients can receive treatment closer to home, reducing the need for travel to larger hospitals.

**Radiation Oncology:** Thompson Health partners with other facilities to provide radiation therapy services. Patients may be referred to nearby radiation oncology centers for treatment.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Thompson Health are generally shorter than at larger hospitals like Strong Memorial. This can be a significant advantage for patients needing immediate care.

**Telehealth Integration:** Thompson Health has also embraced telehealth, offering virtual appointments for follow-up care and consultations. This enhances accessibility for patients in the surrounding communities.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Facilities and Outpatient Centers**

Beyond Strong Memorial and Thompson Health, the area around 14519 offers other options. Some smaller hospitals and outpatient centers may provide specific services, such as diagnostic imaging or chemotherapy.

**Rochester Regional Health:** Rochester Regional Health operates several facilities in the region, including outpatient centers that offer breast cancer screening and diagnostic services.

**Oncology Practices:** Several private oncology practices in the Rochester area offer medical oncology and radiation therapy services. These practices often collaborate with hospitals to provide comprehensive care.

**Accessibility and Transportation**

Accessibility is a critical factor for patients undergoing breast cancer treatment. Transportation options in the Canandaigua area include personal vehicles, public transportation, and ride-sharing services. Patients should consider the distance to treatment centers, parking availability, and the availability of support services, such as transportation assistance.

**Support Services: A Crucial Component**

Breast cancer treatment is a physically and emotionally demanding journey. Access to support services is essential. Both Strong Memorial and Thompson Health offer a range of support services, including:

* **Patient Navigators:** These individuals guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, helping them schedule appointments, understand treatment options, and access resources.
* **Support Groups:** Support groups provide a safe space for patients to connect with others who have similar experiences.
* **Counseling Services:** Mental health professionals offer counseling and therapy to help patients cope with the emotional challenges of cancer.
* **Financial Assistance:** Hospitals and cancer organizations offer financial assistance programs to help patients with the costs of treatment.

**Insurance Coverage**

Insurance coverage is another critical consideration. Patients should verify their insurance coverage for breast cancer treatment services at each facility. This includes coverage for diagnostic tests, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care services.

**Clinical Trials: Access to Cutting-Edge Treatments**

For some patients, participation in clinical trials may be an option. Strong Memorial Hospital is a major participant in clinical trials, offering patients access to innovative treatments. Patients should discuss clinical trial options with their oncologist.

**Patient Experience and Reviews**

Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care at different hospitals and facilities. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and the hospital's own websites often feature patient reviews. However, it's important to remember that individual experiences can vary.

**Making the Decision: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the right breast cancer care provider is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and priorities. Factors to consider include:

* **Proximity to home:** How far are you willing to travel for treatment?
* **Hospital quality and reputation:** Research the hospital's CMS star rating, patient outcomes, and patient reviews.
* **Specialized services:** Does the hospital offer the specific treatments and services you need?
* **Support services:** Are support services available to help you cope with the emotional and practical challenges of cancer?
* **Insurance coverage:** Does the hospital accept your insurance?
* **Personal preferences:** Do you prefer a large teaching hospital or a smaller community hospital?

**Conclusion: Navigating the Options**

The area around 14519 offers a range of breast cancer care options, from the comprehensive services of Strong Memorial Hospital to the community-focused care of Thompson Health. Careful research, consultation with your physician, and consideration of your individual needs will help you make the best decision for your care. This review provides a starting point for your research, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.