06785, South Kent, Connecticut Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 06785, South Kent, Connecticut is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Torrington, CT (06785): A Scorecard

Finding the best care for lung cancer can feel overwhelming. This review analyzes hospitals near Torrington, CT (ZIP code 06785), focusing on key factors like quality ratings, wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. This information is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your physician for personalized guidance.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Choice**

The immediate vicinity of Torrington offers a limited selection of hospitals. However, the surrounding areas, particularly to the south and east, provide access to larger medical centers with more specialized resources. This review will primarily focus on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering their reputation and capabilities in lung cancer treatment.

**Key Metrics: The Lung Cancer Score Components**

This review considers several key metrics when evaluating hospitals for lung cancer care:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on various quality measures. These ratings offer a general indication of overall hospital performance.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times can be indicative of overall hospital efficiency and access to care. Shorter wait times are generally preferable.
* **Specialty Centers:** The presence of dedicated cancer centers, thoracic surgery programs, and advanced imaging capabilities are crucial for comprehensive lung cancer treatment.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services offer convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, which are increasingly important in cancer care.
* **Accreditation and Certifications:** Accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) signifies a commitment to quality cancer care.
* **Physician Expertise:** The experience and specialization of pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and other specialists are critical to patient outcomes.
* **Patient Outcomes and Survival Rates:** While difficult to obtain specific, publicly available data for individual hospitals, general survival rate data for cancer treatment can be informative.
* **Technology and Innovation:** The use of advanced technologies like robotic surgery, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy is a sign of a hospital's commitment to providing cutting-edge care.

**Hospital Profiles: A Deep Dive**

**1. Charlotte Hungerford Hospital (Torrington, CT)**

Located directly in Torrington, Charlotte Hungerford Hospital (CHH) is a community hospital. While it may not possess the same level of specialization as larger regional centers, it serves as a crucial entry point for many patients.

* **CMS Star Rating:** CHH currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** The average ER wait time can fluctuate. Checking the hospital's website or using online tools for real-time updates is recommended.
* **Specialty Centers:** CHH has a cancer care program that is affiliated with the Smilow Cancer Hospital. This affiliation can provide access to advanced treatments and clinical trials.
* **Telehealth Availability:** CHH offers telehealth services, which may include virtual consultations with specialists.
* **Accreditation and Certifications:** CHH is accredited by the Commission on Cancer.
* **Physician Expertise:** The hospital has a team of oncologists and other specialists.
* **Lung Cancer Score:** CHH provides a crucial local service and offers access to cancer care. However, patients with complex cases may need to seek more specialized care at larger centers.

**2. Saint Francis Hospital (Hartford, CT)**

Approximately a 1-hour drive from Torrington, Saint Francis Hospital in Hartford offers a broader range of services and is part of Trinity Health of New England.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Saint Francis Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times vary. Checking online resources for real-time updates is recommended.
* **Specialty Centers:** Saint Francis has a comprehensive cancer center, offering advanced treatments, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. It also has a thoracic surgery program.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services are available, including virtual appointments with oncologists and other specialists.
* **Accreditation and Certifications:** Saint Francis is accredited by the Commission on Cancer.
* **Physician Expertise:** The hospital has a large team of experienced oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and other specialists.
* **Lung Cancer Score:** Saint Francis Hospital provides a more comprehensive approach to lung cancer care, including access to advanced treatments and a dedicated cancer center.

**3. Yale New Haven Hospital (New Haven, CT)**

Yale New Haven Hospital, located approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Torrington, is a flagship hospital known for its advanced medical research and comprehensive cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Yale New Haven Hospital has a 4-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can be longer due to the hospital's high volume. Checking online resources for real-time updates is recommended.
* **Specialty Centers:** Yale New Haven Hospital has the Smilow Cancer Hospital, a nationally recognized cancer center offering a full spectrum of lung cancer treatments, including advanced surgical techniques, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Yale New Haven Hospital offers extensive telehealth services, including virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring.
* **Accreditation and Certifications:** The Smilow Cancer Hospital is accredited by the Commission on Cancer and holds numerous other accreditations and certifications.
* **Physician Expertise:** Yale New Haven Hospital boasts a team of world-renowned lung cancer specialists, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons.
* **Patient Outcomes and Survival Rates:** Yale New Haven Hospital is known for its high survival rates and commitment to innovative treatments.
* **Technology and Innovation:** Yale New Haven Hospital is at the forefront of lung cancer research and treatment, utilizing cutting-edge technologies like robotic surgery, stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), and the latest targeted therapies and immunotherapies.
* **Lung Cancer Score:** Yale New Haven Hospital offers the highest level of lung cancer care in the region, with access to the most advanced treatments, experienced specialists, and a strong focus on research and innovation.

**4. Hartford Hospital (Hartford, CT)**

Hartford Hospital, also in Hartford, is another major medical center within reasonable driving distance.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Hartford Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary. Checking online resources for real-time updates is recommended.
* **Specialty Centers:** Hartford Hospital has a comprehensive cancer center with a thoracic surgery program.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services are available.
* **Accreditation and Certifications:** Hartford Hospital is accredited by the Commission on Cancer.
* **Physician Expertise:** The hospital has a team of oncologists, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons.
* **Lung Cancer Score:** Hartford Hospital provides a solid level of lung cancer care with access to specialized services.

**5. Danbury Hospital (Danbury, CT)**

Located to the south of Torrington, Danbury Hospital is another option for patients.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Danbury Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary. Checking online resources for real-time updates is recommended.
* **Specialty Centers:** Danbury Hospital has a cancer center.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services are available.
* **Accreditation and Certifications:** Danbury Hospital is accredited by the Commission on Cancer.
* **Physician Expertise:** The hospital has a team of oncologists, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons.
* **Lung Cancer Score:** Danbury Hospital offers a reasonable level of care.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth is increasingly important in cancer care, offering convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. All the hospitals mentioned above offer telehealth services to varying degrees. Patients should inquire about the specific telehealth options available, including the types of appointments offered, the technology used, and the insurance coverage.

**The Lung Cancer Score: Summary and Recommendations**

Based on the analysis of key metrics, here's a general assessment:

* **For local access and initial care:** Charlotte Hungerford Hospital provides essential services.
* **For comprehensive care and specialized services:** Saint Francis Hospital and Hartford Hospital are good options.
* **For the highest level of care, advanced treatments, and cutting-edge research:** Yale New Haven Hospital (Smilow Cancer Hospital) is the top choice.

**Recommendations:**

* **Consult with your primary care physician:** Discuss your specific needs and preferences.
* **Research individual physicians:** Investigate the experience and specialization of pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons.
* **Consider travel distance:** Balance the need for specialized care with the convenience of location.
* **Inquire about clinical trials:** Explore the possibility of participating in clinical trials, especially at research-focused hospitals like Yale New Haven.
* **Verify insurance coverage:** Confirm that your insurance plan covers the services and specialists you choose.
* **Don't delay seeking care:** Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in lung cancer.

This review provides a starting point for understanding the lung cancer care landscape near Torrington, CT. Remember to consult with your healthcare providers for personalized guidance and make informed decisions about your treatment.