11516, Cedarhurst, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 11516, Cedarhurst, New York is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care in the Heart of Long Island: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 11516**

Finding the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals near the ZIP code 11516 (Bellmore, NY), examining their capabilities, specialties, and performance metrics to help patients make informed choices. The information presented is based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and hospital websites.

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

North Shore University Hospital (NSUH), located a short drive from 11516, is a major player in the region's healthcare landscape. It is part of Northwell Health, a large integrated health system. NSUH consistently receives high ratings, including a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects its overall quality of care, patient safety, and outcomes.

NSUH boasts a comprehensive lung cancer program. They offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to create individualized treatment plans. The hospital's lung cancer program is accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC), a program of the American College of Surgeons. This accreditation signifies a commitment to providing high-quality cancer care.

The hospital’s thoracic surgery department is particularly noteworthy. They perform a high volume of lung resections, including minimally invasive techniques like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). This approach often leads to shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times. NSUH also has advanced diagnostic capabilities, including advanced imaging such as PET/CT scans and bronchoscopy with endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS).

**ER Wait Times at NSUH:** Emergency room wait times are a key concern for patients. Publicly available data indicates that NSUH's ER wait times can vary, but it generally falls within the range of other major hospitals in the area. It's always advisable to check real-time wait times on their website or through online resources before visiting the ER.

**Telehealth at NSUH:** Northwell Health has invested heavily in telehealth services. NSUH offers telehealth consultations for various specialties, including oncology. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to patients who may have difficulty traveling to the hospital.

**Stony Brook University Hospital: A Research-Focused Option**

Stony Brook University Hospital, while a bit further from 11516, is another important option. It is a large academic medical center with a strong emphasis on research and innovation. Stony Brook also holds a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a good level of overall quality.

Stony Brook's lung cancer program benefits from its affiliation with the university. This connection facilitates access to cutting-edge clinical trials and the latest advancements in lung cancer treatment. They have a dedicated cancer center, the Stony Brook Cancer Center, which offers a wide range of services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology.

The hospital's thoracic surgery department is well-regarded, and they perform a significant number of lung cancer surgeries. Stony Brook also has advanced imaging capabilities and offers a full spectrum of treatment options, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

**ER Wait Times at Stony Brook:** ER wait times at Stony Brook can fluctuate. It's recommended to check real-time wait times online or by phone before going to the emergency room.

**Telehealth at Stony Brook:** Stony Brook Medicine has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years. They provide telehealth consultations for cancer patients, making it easier for them to access care and follow-up appointments.

**Mount Sinai South Nassau (Oceanside): A Community-Focused Approach**

Mount Sinai South Nassau, located in Oceanside, is closer to 11516 and offers a more community-focused approach to care. It is part of the Mount Sinai Health System. While its CMS star rating may vary, it is a well-respected hospital in the area.

Mount Sinai South Nassau has a dedicated cancer center, the Gertrude & Louis Feil Cancer Center. The center provides comprehensive cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. They offer a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment, with a team of specialists working together to develop individualized treatment plans.

The hospital's thoracic surgery department performs lung cancer surgeries, and they offer a range of treatment options, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. They also have advanced imaging capabilities.

**ER Wait Times at Mount Sinai South Nassau:** ER wait times at Mount Sinai South Nassau are generally competitive with other hospitals in the area. Checking real-time wait times is always advisable.

**Telehealth at Mount Sinai South Nassau:** Mount Sinai Health System has expanded its telehealth offerings, and Mount Sinai South Nassau provides telehealth consultations for cancer patients.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Support Services**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, patients should consider specialty centers and support services. The region has numerous private oncology practices that work in conjunction with the larger hospitals. These practices often offer specialized expertise and access to clinical trials.

**Radiation Oncology Centers:** Radiation therapy is a crucial component of lung cancer treatment. Patients should investigate radiation oncology centers in the area, evaluating their technology, expertise, and patient reviews.

**Support Services:** Lung cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Patients should seek hospitals that offer robust support services, including:

* **Support Groups:** These provide a safe space for patients and their families to connect with others facing similar challenges.
* **Social Workers:** They can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, access financial assistance, and connect with community resources.
* **Nutritionists:** They can provide guidance on maintaining a healthy diet during treatment.
* **Palliative Care:** This focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

**Evaluating Hospitals: Key Metrics and Factors**

When choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment, patients should consider several key factors:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** While not the only factor, CMS star ratings provide a general indication of a hospital's quality.
* **Accreditations:** Look for hospitals accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) or other reputable organizations.
* **Specialty Centers:** Assess the hospital's dedicated cancer center and the expertise of its specialists.
* **Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers a full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
* **Technology:** Evaluate the hospital's access to advanced imaging and treatment technologies.
* **Surgeon Experience:** Inquire about the experience of the thoracic surgeons and the volume of lung cancer surgeries they perform.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the patient experience.
* **ER Wait Times:** Consider ER wait times, especially if you anticipate needing emergency care.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Evaluate the hospital's telehealth offerings for convenience and accessibility.
* **Support Services:** Assess the availability of support services, such as support groups, social workers, and palliative care.

**Conclusion: Making the Right Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Patients should carefully research their options, considering the factors outlined above and consulting with their primary care physician and oncologist. The hospitals near 11516 offer a range of choices, from large academic medical centers to community-focused hospitals. By gathering information, asking questions, and exploring all available resources, patients can make an informed decision and find the best possible care for their needs. The information provided here is a starting point for that process, and further investigation is strongly recommended.