11005, Floral Park, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11005, Floral Park, New York is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 11005

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a complex journey, demanding access to top-tier medical expertise and resources. This review analyzes hospitals near the 11005 ZIP code, focusing on their lung cancer care capabilities, including factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to aid informed decision-making for patients and their families.

**Proximity and Primary Considerations:**

The 11005 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Albertson and Roslyn Heights, New York, offers access to a range of hospitals, both within the immediate vicinity and a short drive away. Proximity is a crucial factor, especially during treatment, which often requires frequent appointments and potential emergency visits. However, the quality of care should always be the primary driver.

**North Shore University Hospital (Manhasset): A Flagship Institution**

North Shore University Hospital (NSUH), located in Manhasset, is a major player in the region. It is part of Northwell Health, a large integrated healthcare system. NSUH consistently receives high marks for its comprehensive cancer care. While specific CMS star ratings can fluctuate, Northwell Health generally performs well. Patients should check the most current ratings on the CMS website (Medicare.gov) for the most up-to-date information.

NSUH boasts a dedicated oncology center, often housing specialized lung cancer programs. These programs typically involve a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and specialized nurses. The availability of this team is critical for comprehensive care.

ER wait times at NSUH, like those at any major hospital, can vary. Data from sources like ProPublica and the CMS provide insights into average wait times, but these are just averages. Actual wait times can depend on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition. Patients should be aware of potential delays, especially during peak hours.

Telehealth is increasingly integrated into cancer care at NSUH. Northwell Health has invested heavily in telehealth platforms, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring capabilities. This can be particularly beneficial for patients managing treatment side effects or needing routine check-ups.

**St. Francis Hospital (Roslyn): Cardiac and Cancer Expertise**

St. Francis Hospital, located in Roslyn, is known for its strong cardiac care but also offers comprehensive cancer services. While its primary focus is cardiology, St. Francis has a dedicated cancer institute that includes lung cancer treatment options. The hospital's CMS star ratings are generally strong, reflecting its overall commitment to quality. Patients should verify the current rating on the CMS website.

The cancer institute at St. Francis likely provides access to a multidisciplinary team for lung cancer care. While the specific structure and resources may differ from larger institutions, St. Francis often collaborates with other hospitals and specialists to ensure comprehensive treatment.

ER wait times at St. Francis can vary. Patients should consult publicly available data sources to get an idea of the typical wait times. Telehealth offerings may be available, but the extent of their integration into lung cancer care should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Long Island Jewish Medical Center (New Hyde Park): A Major Cancer Center**

Long Island Jewish (LIJ) Medical Center, part of Northwell Health, is another major hospital within reasonable driving distance. LIJ is a significant cancer center, offering a wide range of services. Like NSUH, LIJ’s CMS star ratings should be checked on Medicare.gov for the latest information.

LIJ’s cancer center typically features a dedicated lung cancer program with a multidisciplinary team. The hospital often participates in clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and research. This is a crucial factor for patients seeking advanced therapies.

ER wait times at LIJ, like other large hospitals, can be variable. Patients should research average wait times from publicly available sources. Telehealth is likely integrated into the cancer care program, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Other Hospitals and Considerations:**

Other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of 11005 might offer lung cancer care. This includes smaller community hospitals and specialized facilities. However, the quality and breadth of services can vary significantly. Patients should carefully research the specific capabilities of each hospital, including the availability of:

* **Specialized Surgeons:** Thoracic surgeons with experience in minimally invasive techniques (e.g., VATS) are highly desirable.
* **Radiation Therapy:** Access to advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), is crucial.
* **Medical Oncology:** Expertise in chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy is essential.
* **Support Services:** Access to support groups, palliative care, and social work services can significantly improve the patient's quality of life.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials offers access to cutting-edge treatments.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a significant consideration, especially for patients experiencing symptoms or complications related to lung cancer. While average wait times provide a general idea, actual wait times can vary. Patients should check publicly available data sources, such as ProPublica's Hospital Compare tool and the CMS website, for the most up-to-date information.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in cancer care. It allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring from the comfort of their homes. The availability and integration of telehealth services vary between hospitals. Patients should inquire about telehealth options during their initial consultations.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Hospitals with dedicated lung cancer programs often offer specialized services, such as:

* **Early Detection Programs:** Lung cancer screening programs, often using low-dose CT scans, can detect cancer at an early stage, when treatment is most effective.
* **Multidisciplinary Tumor Boards:** These boards bring together specialists from various disciplines to discuss individual patient cases and develop personalized treatment plans.
* **Smoking Cessation Programs:** These programs can help patients quit smoking, improving their overall health and treatment outcomes.

**Research and Clinical Trials:**

Hospitals involved in research and clinical trials offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments. Patients should inquire about clinical trial opportunities during their consultations.

**Financial Considerations:**

The cost of lung cancer treatment can be substantial. Patients should inquire about insurance coverage, financial assistance programs, and payment options.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer care is a critical decision. Patients should consider the following factors:

* **Proximity:** While not the primary factor, proximity to the hospital is important for convenience and ease of access.
* **Reputation and Quality of Care:** Research the hospital's reputation, CMS star ratings, and patient satisfaction scores.
* **Specialized Expertise:** Look for hospitals with dedicated lung cancer programs and a multidisciplinary team of specialists.
* **Access to Advanced Treatments:** Inquire about the availability of advanced radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Support Services:** Consider the availability of support groups, palliative care, and social work services.
* **Telehealth Options:** Determine the availability and integration of telehealth services.
* **ER Wait Times:** Research average ER wait times.
* **Financial Considerations:** Understand insurance coverage, financial assistance programs, and payment options.

**Conclusion:**

The hospitals near the 11005 ZIP code offer a range of options for lung cancer care. North Shore University Hospital and Long Island Jewish Medical Center, as part of Northwell Health, are major players with comprehensive cancer programs. St. Francis Hospital also provides cancer services. Patients should conduct thorough research, considering the factors outlined above, to make an informed decision that best meets their individual needs. Regular updates on CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth offerings are essential for staying informed. Consulting with a primary care physician and seeking second opinions are always recommended.