12916, Brushton, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12916, Brushton, New York is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 12916

Finding the best care for lung cancer can be a daunting task. This review analyzes hospitals near ZIP code 12916, focusing on key factors like quality ratings, specialized services, and accessibility, to help patients and their families make informed decisions.

**Understanding the Landscape**

ZIP code 12916, representing the town of Chazy, New York, is located in a relatively rural area. This means access to specialized medical care might require travel. The availability of comprehensive lung cancer treatment, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, will vary among nearby hospitals. This review will highlight those hospitals that offer the most robust services, while also considering factors like patient experience and wait times.

**Flagship Hospitals and Quality Ratings**

One of the most important metrics for evaluating a hospital is its quality rating. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Unfortunately, hospitals immediately within the ZIP code 12916 area are generally small and may not have a CMS star rating. Therefore, this review will focus on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, acknowledging the need for potential travel.

**University of Vermont Medical Center (Burlington, VT):** Located approximately 60 miles east of Chazy, the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) is a major regional referral center. UVMMC typically holds a strong CMS star rating, reflecting its commitment to quality care. UVMMC boasts a comprehensive cancer center, including a dedicated thoracic oncology program. This program offers a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists in pulmonology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and thoracic surgery working collaboratively. UVMMC is a teaching hospital, which often translates to access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials.

**Alice Hyde Medical Center (Malone, NY):** While not a flagship hospital with a high CMS star rating, Alice Hyde Medical Center, located roughly 50 miles west of Chazy, offers some basic cancer services. It is important to note that Alice Hyde is a smaller community hospital. Therefore, patients requiring complex lung cancer treatment may be referred to larger facilities like UVMMC.

**Plattsburgh Memorial Hospital (Plattsburgh, NY):** Located about 15 miles south of Chazy, Plattsburgh Memorial Hospital is another option for local residents. However, it is also a smaller community hospital. Patients with complex cases may be referred to other facilities.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times can be an indicator of a hospital's overall efficiency and capacity. Shorter wait times can be crucial, especially for patients experiencing complications related to lung cancer treatment. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate, but it is a factor to consider.

**University of Vermont Medical Center:** As a large, busy hospital, UVMMC's ER wait times can vary. It is advisable to check real-time wait times online or by phone before heading to the ER.

**Alice Hyde Medical Center:** As a smaller facility, Alice Hyde Medical Center may have shorter ER wait times compared to larger hospitals. However, the level of care available may be limited.

**Plattsburgh Memorial Hospital:** Similar to Alice Hyde, Plattsburgh Memorial may have shorter wait times than larger hospitals.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

The presence of specialized centers and programs is a key indicator of a hospital's ability to provide comprehensive lung cancer care. These centers often offer advanced diagnostic tools, specialized treatments, and access to clinical trials.

**University of Vermont Medical Center:** UVMMC's comprehensive cancer center is a significant advantage. The thoracic oncology program offers advanced diagnostic imaging, including PET/CT scans, and state-of-the-art radiation therapy, including stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). The hospital also has a dedicated surgical oncology team specializing in minimally invasive thoracic surgery. UVMMC has a robust clinical trials program, providing patients with access to the latest research and treatment options.

**Alice Hyde Medical Center:** Alice Hyde Medical Center offers limited cancer services. Patients may receive chemotherapy and other supportive care, but complex procedures and advanced therapies are likely unavailable.

**Plattsburgh Memorial Hospital:** Plattsburgh Memorial Hospital also offers some cancer services, but may not have the same level of specialization as UVMMC.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, especially for patients living in rural areas. Telehealth allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services remotely.

**University of Vermont Medical Center:** UVMMC has a well-established telehealth program, including services for oncology patients. Telehealth can be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive care, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**Alice Hyde Medical Center:** Alice Hyde Medical Center may offer some telehealth services, but the scope may be limited.

**Plattsburgh Memorial Hospital:** Plattsburgh Memorial Hospital may also offer telehealth services, but the availability and scope may vary.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Patient experience is a crucial factor in overall care. Hospitals should offer comprehensive support services, including patient navigators, support groups, and palliative care.

**University of Vermont Medical Center:** UVMMC prioritizes patient experience and offers a range of support services, including patient navigators to guide patients through the treatment process, support groups for patients and families, and palliative care services to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

**Alice Hyde Medical Center:** Alice Hyde Medical Center may offer limited support services.

**Plattsburgh Memorial Hospital:** Plattsburgh Memorial Hospital may offer some support services, but the scope may be limited.

**Accessibility and Travel Considerations**

The distance and travel time to a hospital are important considerations, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

**University of Vermont Medical Center:** The 60-mile drive to UVMMC from Chazy can be significant, especially during inclement weather. Patients and families should factor in travel time and potential lodging costs.

**Alice Hyde Medical Center:** The drive to Alice Hyde Medical Center is shorter, but the hospital may not offer the same level of specialized care.

**Plattsburgh Memorial Hospital:** The drive to Plattsburgh Memorial Hospital is the shortest of the three.

**Financial Considerations**

The cost of care is a significant concern for all patients. Patients should inquire about insurance coverage, out-of-pocket expenses, and financial assistance programs.

**University of Vermont Medical Center:** As a large hospital, UVMMC may have higher costs compared to smaller facilities. Patients should verify their insurance coverage and explore financial assistance options if needed.

**Alice Hyde Medical Center:** Costs at Alice Hyde Medical Center may be lower, but patients should still verify their insurance coverage.

**Plattsburgh Memorial Hospital:** Costs at Plattsburgh Memorial Hospital may be lower, but patients should still verify their insurance coverage.

**Making the Right Choice**

Choosing the best hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, the complexity of their condition, and their preferences for care.

**For patients with complex lung cancer or those seeking access to the latest treatments and clinical trials, the University of Vermont Medical Center is likely the best option, despite the longer travel distance.**

**For patients seeking basic cancer services and convenience, Alice Hyde Medical Center or Plattsburgh Memorial Hospital may be suitable, but patients should be prepared for potential referrals to larger facilities for more specialized care.**

**It is crucial to consult with your primary care physician and oncologist to discuss your specific needs and preferences and to determine the best course of action.**