11357, Whitestone, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11357, Whitestone, New York is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Scorecard for Hospitals Near Flushing, NY (11357)

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Access to high-quality, specialized care is paramount. This review assesses hospitals near Flushing, NY (ZIP code 11357), focusing on key metrics for lung cancer treatment, including hospital quality ratings, specialized centers, wait times, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a factual overview to help patients and their families make informed decisions.

**Hospital Quality & General Overview**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare provides a crucial starting point for evaluating hospital quality. CMS assigns star ratings, from one to five stars, based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While not a perfect measure, these ratings offer a valuable initial assessment.

Within a reasonable radius of 11357, several hospitals stand out. NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, with multiple campuses, consistently receives high ratings and is a nationally recognized institution. Similarly, Mount Sinai Hospital, another major player in the New York City healthcare landscape, boasts a strong reputation. These flagship hospitals often have the resources to invest in cutting-edge technology and specialized staff, crucial for complex conditions like lung cancer.

**Specific Hospital Profiles & Lung Cancer Programs**

**NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital (Multiple Campuses):** This network offers comprehensive lung cancer care across its various campuses. They have dedicated thoracic oncology programs with multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and pathologists. The hospital system is known for its research affiliations, often participating in clinical trials that offer patients access to innovative therapies. CMS star ratings vary across campuses, so it's crucial to research the specific campus most convenient for the patient. ER wait times can fluctuate, but generally align with the urban average. Telehealth services are increasingly available, offering consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Mount Sinai Hospital (Multiple Campuses):** Mount Sinai has a robust lung cancer program, incorporating state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment modalities. They offer advanced imaging techniques, including PET/CT scans and minimally invasive surgical options. Their multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive personalized treatment plans. Like NewYork-Presbyterian, Mount Sinai participates in clinical trials, providing access to cutting-edge research. CMS star ratings should be checked for each campus. ER wait times are variable, and telehealth offerings are expanding.

**Long Island Jewish Medical Center (LIJMC):** Part of the Northwell Health system, LIJMC is a significant healthcare provider serving the Queens and Long Island areas. LIJMC has a dedicated thoracic oncology program. They offer a full spectrum of lung cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. The hospital is known for its focus on patient-centered care and its commitment to community outreach. CMS star ratings should be consulted. ER wait times are generally comparable to other major hospitals in the area. Telehealth options are available, especially for follow-up appointments.

**Other Hospitals to Consider:**

**Flushing Hospital Medical Center:** Located directly in Flushing, this hospital offers a more localized option. While not a major research institution, Flushing Hospital provides essential care and can be a convenient choice for residents of the immediate area. They have a pulmonary department and offer cancer services. CMS star ratings and specific lung cancer program details should be researched. ER wait times can be shorter than those at larger hospitals. Telehealth services are likely to be limited.

**St. John's Episcopal Hospital:** Situated in Far Rockaway, this hospital serves a different part of Queens. While not primarily known for lung cancer specialization, it offers essential services and can be a viable option for patients in that specific geographic area. CMS star ratings and lung cancer program details should be verified. ER wait times and telehealth offerings should be checked directly with the hospital.

**Key Treatment Modalities & Specialized Centers**

Effective lung cancer treatment requires a range of specialized services. Access to these modalities is a critical factor in evaluating a hospital's suitability.

**Surgery:** Thoracic surgery is often a cornerstone of lung cancer treatment. Hospitals should offer minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), to minimize recovery time and improve patient outcomes. The experience and expertise of the thoracic surgeons are paramount.

**Radiation Therapy:** Advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), are essential for precise targeting of tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Hospitals should have state-of-the-art radiation oncology departments.

**Medical Oncology & Chemotherapy:** Medical oncologists specializing in lung cancer are crucial for developing and administering chemotherapy regimens, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies. Access to clinical trials is also important, as they provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Diagnostic Imaging:** Accurate and timely diagnosis is critical. Hospitals should have advanced imaging capabilities, including PET/CT scans, MRI, and bronchoscopy.

**Specialized Centers:** Look for hospitals with dedicated lung cancer centers or thoracic oncology programs. These centers often have multidisciplinary teams, specialized nurses, and support services, such as patient navigators, to guide patients through the complexities of treatment.

**ER Wait Times & Patient Experience**

ER wait times can be a significant factor, especially for patients experiencing symptoms or complications related to lung cancer. These times can vary depending on the hospital and the time of day. Websites like ProPublica's "Surgeon Scorecard" and Healthgrades provide information on hospital wait times and patient satisfaction scores. However, these are just indicators and should be considered alongside other factors.

Patient experience is also critical. Consider factors such as the hospital's cleanliness, the friendliness of the staff, and the availability of support services. Patient reviews and online forums can provide insights into the experiences of other patients.

**Telehealth & Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring of symptoms. Hospitals with robust telehealth programs can provide convenient access to care, especially for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues. Telehealth can also help reduce the burden on hospital resources and improve patient outcomes. Check each hospital's website for specifics.

**Clinical Trials & Research**

Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to innovative therapies and treatments that are not yet widely available. Hospitals affiliated with major research institutions are more likely to participate in clinical trials. Inquire about clinical trial participation when considering a hospital.

**Financial Considerations**

The cost of lung cancer treatment can be substantial. Understand your insurance coverage and the hospital's billing practices. Inquire about financial assistance programs if needed.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. This review provides a starting point for evaluating hospitals near Flushing, NY (11357). It is essential to conduct thorough research, consider individual needs and preferences, and consult with healthcare professionals to make an informed decision. Remember to check the most current information directly from the hospitals, as programs and services can change. This review is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.