12457, Mount Tremper, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12457, Mount Tremper, New York is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 12457

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting journey. Access to top-tier medical care, including experienced oncologists, advanced treatment options, and supportive services, is paramount. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 12457 (Saugerties, New York), evaluating their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings. This information aims to provide a factual basis for informed decision-making.

**Regional Overview & Key Considerations**

The healthcare landscape in and around Saugerties, NY, is primarily shaped by a network of hospitals serving a relatively rural population. Proximity to major medical centers in larger cities like Albany and New York City offers access to more specialized care, but travel time and logistical considerations must be factored in. When evaluating hospitals, patients and their families should consider factors beyond immediate location, including the availability of specific lung cancer treatments, the expertise of the medical team, and the overall patient experience.

**Flagship Hospital: HealthAlliance Hospital – Broadway Campus (Kingston, NY)**

HealthAlliance Hospital, a part of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth), is the closest major hospital to Saugerties, located in Kingston. This facility is a critical access point for healthcare in the region. While it's not a designated "flagship" hospital in the same sense as a large urban medical center, its significance lies in its accessibility and the services it provides to the local community.

* **CMS Star Rating:** HealthAlliance Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's crucial to consider this within the context of the hospital's role as a community provider.
* **Emergency Room:** ER wait times at HealthAlliance can fluctuate. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. It's always advisable to call ahead if possible to inquire about current wait times.
* **Lung Cancer Services:** HealthAlliance offers a range of services for lung cancer patients, including diagnostic imaging (CT scans, X-rays), chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The hospital has a team of oncologists and other specialists who collaborate on patient care.
* **Specialty Centers:** HealthAlliance does not have a dedicated, standalone lung cancer center. However, lung cancer patients are managed within the broader oncology department.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth services are available at HealthAlliance, including consultations with specialists and follow-up appointments. This is particularly valuable for patients in rural areas who may have difficulty traveling for in-person visits.
* **Considerations:** While HealthAlliance provides essential services, patients with complex lung cancer cases or those seeking cutting-edge treatments may need to consider referral to larger medical centers.

**Other Hospitals in the Area**

Several other hospitals and healthcare facilities are within a reasonable driving distance of Saugerties, offering alternative options for lung cancer care.

* **Albany Medical Center (Albany, NY):** Located approximately an hour's drive from Saugerties, Albany Medical Center is a major regional referral center. It's a Level I trauma center and offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including advanced lung cancer treatment options.
* **CMS Star Rating:** Albany Medical Center holds a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting a higher level of quality compared to HealthAlliance.
* **Lung Cancer Services:** Albany Medical Center boasts a dedicated lung cancer program with specialized physicians, surgeons, and support staff. They offer advanced treatments, including minimally invasive surgery, targeted therapies, and clinical trials.
* **Specialty Centers:** Albany Medical Center has a dedicated Cancer Center, providing multidisciplinary care for various cancers, including lung cancer.
* **Telehealth:** Albany Medical Center has a robust telehealth program, allowing patients to access specialists remotely.
* **Considerations:** Albany Medical Center is a significant option for patients seeking specialized lung cancer care. The longer travel time is a factor, but the hospital's advanced resources and expertise may be a deciding factor for some.
* **St. Peter's Hospital (Albany, NY):** Also in Albany, St. Peter's Hospital is another option for lung cancer care.
* **CMS Star Rating:** St. Peter's Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Lung Cancer Services:** St. Peter's offers lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
* **Specialty Centers:** St. Peter's has a cancer care program.
* **Telehealth:** St. Peter's offers telehealth services.
* **Considerations:** St. Peter's provides a comprehensive range of services.
* **Vassar Brothers Medical Center (Poughkeepsie, NY):** Located approximately an hour's drive south of Saugerties, Vassar Brothers Medical Center is another option.
* **CMS Star Rating:** Vassar Brothers has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Lung Cancer Services:** Vassar Brothers offers lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
* **Specialty Centers:** Vassar Brothers has a cancer center.
* **Telehealth:** Vassar Brothers offers telehealth services.
* **Considerations:** Vassar Brothers is another option for patients seeking care closer to the Hudson Valley.

**Key Metrics and Considerations**

* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary significantly depending on the hospital and the time of day. Patients should contact the ER directly or check online resources for current wait times.
* **Oncologist Expertise:** The experience and specialization of the oncologists are crucial. Patients should inquire about the physicians' board certifications, areas of expertise, and experience treating lung cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** The availability of advanced treatment options, such as targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and clinical trials, is a critical factor, particularly for patients with advanced-stage lung cancer.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Lung cancer care often requires a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and supportive care specialists. Patients should inquire about the hospital's approach to multidisciplinary care.
* **Patient Support Services:** Access to support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and palliative care, can significantly improve the patient's quality of life during treatment.
* **Telehealth Utilization:** Telehealth can be a valuable tool for patients in rural areas, allowing them to access specialists and receive follow-up care remotely. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services.

**Conclusion**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 12457 offers a range of options for lung cancer care. HealthAlliance Hospital provides essential services close to home, while Albany Medical Center and other regional hospitals offer more specialized care and advanced treatment options. Patients should carefully evaluate the hospitals' strengths and weaknesses, considering factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, the expertise of the medical team, the availability of advanced treatments, and the availability of telehealth services. Ultimately, the best choice depends on the individual patient's needs, preferences, and the complexity of their condition. Consulting with a primary care physician or a pulmonologist is recommended to navigate the options and make an informed decision.