14627, Rochester, New York Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 14627, Rochester, New York is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Decoding the Breast Cancer Score: Hospitals Near 14627

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is a daunting journey. Choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review focuses on hospitals serving the area near ZIP code 14627 (Rochester, NY), evaluating their breast cancer care based on available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. This is not a definitive ranking, but rather an informative overview to aid in your decision-making process.

**The Landscape of Care: Rochester's Flagship Hospitals**

The Rochester area is primarily served by two major healthcare systems: University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) and Rochester Regional Health (RRH). These systems encompass several hospitals, each with its own strengths and specializations.

**University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC)**

URMC is a large, integrated healthcare system anchored by Strong Memorial Hospital, the flagship facility. Strong Memorial is a teaching hospital, meaning it is affiliated with the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, and thus benefits from cutting-edge research and access to the latest treatments.

**Strong Memorial Hospital:** Strong Memorial Hospital, located at 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14642, holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating isn't the highest possible, it indicates an average level of performance compared to other hospitals nationwide. ER wait times at Strong Memorial can vary, but publicly available data indicates an average wait time that fluctuates depending on the time of day and patient volume. It's advisable to check real-time wait times through the hospital's website or third-party apps before arriving.

**The Wilmot Cancer Institute:** URMC's Wilmot Cancer Institute is a significant asset for breast cancer patients. Located within Strong Memorial Hospital, the Wilmot Cancer Institute is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center. This designation signifies a commitment to research, prevention, and treatment of cancer, and means patients have access to clinical trials and advanced therapies. The Wilmot Cancer Institute offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, encompassing screening, diagnosis, treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy), and survivorship care. They have dedicated breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff. The institute's website provides detailed information about their services, research initiatives, and patient resources.

**Telehealth at URMC:** URMC has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Telehealth appointments are available for various services, including follow-up appointments, consultations, and support groups. The availability of telehealth services can be particularly beneficial for breast cancer patients, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits and providing convenient access to care. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual visits or patient satisfaction scores, are not readily available in the public domain.

**Rochester Regional Health (RRH)**

Rochester Regional Health is another major healthcare provider in the region, with several hospitals and outpatient facilities.

**Rochester General Hospital:** Located at 1425 Portland Ave, Rochester, NY 14621, Rochester General Hospital (RGH) is a key facility within the RRH system. RGH currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS, similar to Strong Memorial Hospital. ER wait times at RGH are variable. It's important to consult the hospital's website or a real-time wait time application for up-to-date information.

**Unity Hospital:** Unity Hospital, located at 1555 Long Pond Rd, Rochester, NY 14626, is another RRH facility that serves the 14627 area. Unity Hospital also has a 3-star CMS rating. ER wait times at Unity Hospital fluctuate, so checking the hospital's website or a third-party app is recommended.

**The Sands Cancer Center:** Rochester General Hospital is home to the Sands Cancer Center, which provides comprehensive cancer care services. The Sands Cancer Center offers a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer treatment, with a team of specialists working together to develop individualized treatment plans. The center provides services such as screening, diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and support services. The Sands Cancer Center has a dedicated breast cancer program with specialized surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.

**Telehealth at RRH:** RRH has also invested in telehealth capabilities. Telehealth appointments are offered for various services, including oncology consultations and follow-up care. The specifics regarding the number of telehealth visits or patient satisfaction rates are not publicly available.

**Comparing the Systems: Key Considerations**

When choosing between URMC and RRH for breast cancer care, several factors should be considered:

* **Specialized Centers:** The Wilmot Cancer Institute at URMC is an NCI-designated cancer center, which may be a significant draw for patients seeking access to clinical trials and cutting-edge research. The Sands Cancer Center at RRH offers a comprehensive program, but lacks the NCI designation.
* **Physician Expertise:** Both systems have experienced breast cancer specialists. Researching the specific qualifications and experience of the surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists is crucial.
* **Hospital Ratings and ER Wait Times:** Both Strong Memorial and Rochester General Hospital have 3-star CMS ratings. ER wait times can vary, so checking real-time data is essential.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Both systems offer telehealth services, providing convenient access to care.
* **Patient Preferences:** Personal preferences, such as proximity to home, insurance coverage, and comfort level with a particular hospital environment, should also be considered.

**Beyond the Flagships: Additional Considerations**

While URMC and RRH are the primary healthcare providers in the area, other facilities may offer breast cancer services, including:

* **Outpatient Imaging Centers:** Several outpatient imaging centers offer mammograms and other breast imaging services. These centers can be a convenient option for screening and early detection.
* **Private Practices:** Some private practices in the area specialize in breast cancer care. These practices may offer a more personalized approach to treatment.

**The Importance of Research and Consultation**

This review provides a general overview of breast cancer care options near ZIP code 14627. It is crucial to conduct thorough research and consult with healthcare professionals to make informed decisions.

* **Consult with your primary care physician:** Your primary care physician can provide referrals and guidance.
* **Research individual physicians:** Investigate the qualifications, experience, and patient reviews of individual physicians.
* **Visit hospital websites:** Explore the websites of the hospitals and cancer centers to learn more about their services, programs, and patient resources.
* **Attend consultations:** Schedule consultations with specialists to discuss your specific needs and treatment options.

**Conclusion: Empowering Your Decision**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a significant decision. By understanding the landscape of care, researching the available options, and consulting with healthcare professionals, patients can make informed choices that align with their individual needs and preferences. This review provides a starting point for navigating the healthcare system near ZIP code 14627, empowering patients to take control of their health journey. Remember that this is just a snapshot, and your personal research and consultation with medical professionals are essential for making the best decision for your individual circumstances.