14527, Penn Yan, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 14527, Penn Yan, New York is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP Code 14527)

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan can feel overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Canandaigua, NY (ZIP code 14527), offering a fact-based assessment of their breast cancer care capabilities. We'll examine key factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings to help you make an informed decision.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Considerations**

Before diving into specific hospitals, it’s important to understand what constitutes quality breast cancer care. Look for hospitals with comprehensive programs encompassing:

* **Early Detection:** Access to advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast MRI, and ultrasound.
* **Multidisciplinary Teams:** Collaboration between surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and support staff.
* **Surgical Options:** Expertise in various surgical techniques, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery.
* **Medical Oncology:** Access to the latest chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** State-of-the-art radiation therapy options, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
* **Support Services:** Counseling, support groups, physical therapy, and survivorship programs.
* **Accreditation:** Look for accreditation from organizations like the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC), which signifies a commitment to quality.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Breast Cancer Programs**

The Rochester area, within a reasonable driving distance of Canandaigua, boasts several prominent hospitals. These facilities often serve as regional hubs, offering a wider range of specialized services.

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

Strong Memorial Hospital, part of the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), is a major player in the region. As of late 2023, Strong Memorial Hospital holds a **4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects overall quality and patient experience.

* **Breast Cancer Program:** Strong Memorial's program is comprehensive, offering a full spectrum of services. They have a dedicated breast cancer center within the Wilmot Cancer Institute, which is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center. This designation signifies a commitment to research, clinical trials, and advanced treatment options.
* **Specialty Centers:** The Wilmot Cancer Institute houses a multidisciplinary team of specialists. They offer advanced imaging, including 3D mammography and breast MRI. Surgical options include lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery. Medical oncology provides access to cutting-edge therapies, including clinical trials. Radiation oncology utilizes advanced techniques.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times at Strong Memorial can fluctuate. Data from the hospital's website and third-party sources like ProPublica and Healthgrades suggest that average wait times can vary, so checking real-time data before heading to the ER is recommended.
* **Telehealth:** URMC has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. Specific availability for breast cancer patients should be confirmed directly with the Wilmot Cancer Institute.

**Highland Hospital (Rochester, NY):**

Highland Hospital, also part of URMC, offers a strong community-based approach to healthcare. Highland Hospital's CMS star rating is **3 stars**.

* **Breast Cancer Program:** Highland Hospital’s program focuses on providing personalized care. They have a dedicated breast health center.
* **Specialty Centers:** Highland offers diagnostic imaging, including mammography and ultrasound. Surgical options are available, and they collaborate with medical and radiation oncologists at URMC for comprehensive treatment plans.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Highland Hospital are generally shorter than those at Strong Memorial, but it is important to check real-time data.
* **Telehealth:** Highland Hospital, as part of URMC, also provides telehealth services. Check the availability of telehealth appointments with the breast health center.

**Other Hospitals in the Area**

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

Thompson Health, located in Canandaigua, is the closest hospital to the 14527 ZIP code.

* **Breast Cancer Program:** Thompson Health offers a comprehensive breast health program. They provide mammography, ultrasound, and other diagnostic services. They have a multidisciplinary team that collaborates with specialists for treatment.
* **Specialty Centers:** Thompson Health has a breast care center. They provide surgical options and collaborate with medical and radiation oncologists.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Thompson Health are typically shorter than larger hospitals.
* **Telehealth:** Thompson Health is expanding its telehealth offerings. Check the availability of telehealth appointments with the breast care center.

**Rochester General Hospital (Rochester, NY):**

Rochester General Hospital, part of Rochester Regional Health, is another option in the Rochester area. As of late 2023, Rochester General Hospital's CMS star rating is **3 stars**.

* **Breast Cancer Program:** Rochester General offers a breast cancer program with a multidisciplinary approach. They offer diagnostic services and surgical options.
* **Specialty Centers:** They have a breast care center. Medical and radiation oncology services are available.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary. Check real-time data.
* **Telehealth:** Rochester Regional Health offers telehealth services. Check the availability of telehealth appointments with the breast care center.

**Comparing Key Metrics**

| Hospital | CMS Star Rating | Breast Cancer Program | ER Wait Times (Approximate) | Telehealth Availability |
| :----------------------------- | :-------------- | :------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | :-------------------------- | :---------------------- |
| Strong Memorial Hospital | 4 | Comprehensive, NCI-designated cancer center, advanced imaging, clinical trials | Variable | Yes |
| Highland Hospital | 3 | Personalized care, breast health center, collaborative approach | Shorter than Strong | Yes |
| Thompson Health | Not Rated | Comprehensive breast health program, diagnostic services, surgical options, multidisciplinary team | Shorter | Yes |
| Rochester General Hospital | 3 | Multidisciplinary approach, diagnostic services, surgical options, breast care center | Variable | Yes |

**Important Considerations and Caveats**

* **CMS Star Ratings:** While CMS star ratings provide a snapshot of overall quality, they don't tell the whole story. Consider them alongside other factors.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are dynamic and can change based on the time of day, day of the week, and patient volume. Always check real-time data.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth availability and specific services can vary. Confirm options directly with the hospital.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider your individual needs and preferences. Some patients prefer a large, research-focused hospital, while others prefer a smaller, community-based setting.
* **Consultation is Key:** The best way to determine the right hospital for you is to consult with your primary care physician, discuss your specific diagnosis and treatment needs, and schedule consultations with specialists at the hospitals you are considering.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a significant decision. The hospitals near Canandaigua, NY (14527) offer a range of options, from large academic medical centers to community-based facilities. Strong Memorial Hospital, with its 4-star CMS rating and NCI-designated cancer center, stands out as a regional leader. Highland Hospital and Thompson Health offer strong local options. Rochester General Hospital also provides a comprehensive program. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, you can make an informed choice and embark on your treatment journey with confidence. Remember to prioritize consultation with your healthcare providers and explore all available resources to ensure you receive the best possible care.