12917, Burke, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12917, Burke, New York is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Adirondacks: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 12917

Finding the best lung cancer care can be a daunting task, especially when navigating the complexities of hospital systems, specialized treatments, and geographic limitations. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 12917 (Au Sable Forks, NY), assessing their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to assist patients and their families in making informed decisions.

**Understanding the Landscape: Proximity and Access**

The Adirondack region, including the area around Au Sable Forks, presents unique challenges in healthcare access. Rural settings often mean longer travel times and fewer specialized resources compared to urban centers. Therefore, this review considers hospitals within a range that balances accessibility with the availability of comprehensive lung cancer services.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality of care, patient experience, and other factors. These ratings offer a general gauge of a hospital's performance, although they are not the sole determinant of quality.

**University of Vermont Medical Center (Burlington, VT):** While technically outside of New York State, the UVM Medical Center is a significant regional healthcare provider and a frequent destination for residents of the Adirondacks. As of the latest available data, UVM Medical Center holds a [Insert Current CMS Star Rating - Check CMS website]. The hospital’s oncology program is well-regarded, with a dedicated cancer center offering a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. UVM Medical Center is a teaching hospital, which often translates to access to cutting-edge research and clinical trials.

**Elizabethtown Community Hospital (Elizabethtown, NY):** Located within the immediate vicinity of ZIP code 12917, Elizabethtown Community Hospital is a critical access hospital, playing a vital role in providing local healthcare services. While it may not possess the same breadth of specialized services as larger facilities, it provides crucial primary care, diagnostic imaging, and a connection to the larger healthcare network. [Insert Current CMS Star Rating - Check CMS website].

**Adirondack Medical Center (Saranac Lake, NY):** Adirondack Medical Center, part of the Adirondack Health system, is another key provider for the region. [Insert Current CMS Star Rating - Check CMS website]. This hospital offers a range of services, including oncology support, and is often a first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. The hospital’s proximity to the community makes it a convenient option for initial consultations, diagnostic testing, and some forms of treatment.

**Assessing Emergency Room Wait Times**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, particularly for patients experiencing acute symptoms related to lung cancer, such as difficulty breathing or chest pain. Longer wait times can indicate potential strain on resources or staffing issues. Unfortunately, precise, real-time ER wait times are often unavailable publicly. However, hospital websites and third-party resources like [Insert any local resources that track ER wait times, if available] can provide estimates. It's essential to contact the hospital directly or check online resources for the most up-to-date information.

**Specialty Centers and Oncology Programs**

The presence of dedicated cancer centers and specialized oncology programs is a significant indicator of a hospital's capacity to treat lung cancer. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, nurses, and support staff to provide comprehensive care.

**University of Vermont Medical Center:** The UVM Cancer Center offers a comprehensive lung cancer program. They have a robust team of specialists, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. They are also a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center, which signifies a commitment to research and advanced treatment options. The center provides access to clinical trials, which can be crucial for patients seeking innovative therapies.

**Adirondack Medical Center:** Adirondack Medical Center offers oncology services, including chemotherapy and supportive care. Patients may be referred to larger centers like UVM Medical Center for more specialized treatments, such as radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures.

**Elizabethtown Community Hospital:** Elizabethtown Community Hospital, as a critical access hospital, likely has limited on-site oncology services. Patients are often referred to larger hospitals for specialized care.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas, to improve access to care. Telehealth services can include virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of vital signs, and support groups.

**University of Vermont Medical Center:** UVM Medical Center has a well-developed telehealth program. They offer virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in the Adirondacks, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**Adirondack Medical Center:** Adirondack Health has been expanding its telehealth capabilities. They may offer virtual consultations and remote monitoring services, potentially improving access to care for patients in the region.

**Elizabethtown Community Hospital:** Elizabethtown Community Hospital may utilize telehealth to connect patients with specialists at larger hospitals, such as UVM Medical Center.

**Diagnostic Capabilities: Imaging and Biopsy**

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective lung cancer treatment. Hospitals must have access to advanced imaging technologies, such as CT scans, PET scans, and MRI, to detect and stage the disease. They also need the ability to perform biopsies to confirm the diagnosis and determine the specific type of lung cancer.

**University of Vermont Medical Center:** UVM Medical Center has state-of-the-art imaging capabilities, including advanced CT scanners, PET/CT scanners, and MRI machines. They also have a dedicated pathology department for biopsy analysis.

**Adirondack Medical Center:** Adirondack Medical Center offers diagnostic imaging services, including CT scans. They may send biopsy samples to specialized laboratories for analysis.

**Elizabethtown Community Hospital:** Elizabethtown Community Hospital likely offers basic imaging services, but patients may be referred to larger hospitals for more advanced imaging and biopsy procedures.

**Surgical Expertise and Thoracic Surgery**

Surgical intervention is often a critical component of lung cancer treatment. Hospitals with skilled thoracic surgeons who specialize in lung cancer surgery are essential.

**University of Vermont Medical Center:** UVM Medical Center has experienced thoracic surgeons who perform a wide range of lung cancer surgeries, including minimally invasive techniques.

**Adirondack Medical Center:** Adirondack Medical Center may have limited surgical capabilities for lung cancer. Patients may be referred to UVM Medical Center or other larger hospitals for surgical procedures.

**Radiation Therapy**

Radiation therapy is a common treatment for lung cancer. Hospitals should have access to advanced radiation therapy technologies, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), to deliver precise and effective treatment.

**University of Vermont Medical Center:** UVM Medical Center has a comprehensive radiation oncology department with advanced technologies for treating lung cancer.

**Adirondack Medical Center:** Adirondack Medical Center may not have on-site radiation therapy. Patients may be referred to UVM Medical Center or other facilities for radiation treatment.

**Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapies**

Medical oncologists administer chemotherapy and targeted therapies. The availability of these treatments, along with experienced oncology nurses and support staff, is crucial.

**University of Vermont Medical Center:** UVM Medical Center offers a full range of chemotherapy and targeted therapies for lung cancer. They have a dedicated oncology infusion center and supportive care services.

**Adirondack Medical Center:** Adirondack Medical Center provides chemotherapy services.

**Supportive Care Services**

Comprehensive lung cancer care extends beyond medical treatments. Supportive care services, such as palliative care, pain management, nutritional counseling, and psychological support, are essential for improving patients' quality of life.

**University of Vermont Medical Center:** UVM Medical Center offers a wide range of supportive care services, including palliative care, pain management, and psychological support.

**Adirondack Medical Center:** Adirondack Medical Center may offer some supportive care services, but patients may be referred to other facilities for more specialized support.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to innovative treatments and contribute to advancements in lung cancer care. Hospitals that are actively involved in research and offer clinical trials are often at the forefront of treatment options.

**University of Vermont Medical Center:** UVM Medical Center is a research-focused institution and offers a wide range of clinical trials for lung cancer patients.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient reviews and surveys provide valuable insights into the quality of care and patient experience. Resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website and online review platforms can offer information on patient satisfaction.

**Cost and Insurance Coverage**

The cost of lung cancer treatment can be substantial. Patients should verify their insurance coverage and understand the financial implications of treatment at different hospitals.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Options**

For residents near ZIP code 12917, the University of Vermont Medical Center stands out as a leading provider of comprehensive lung cancer care, offering advanced treatments, specialized expertise, and a strong research focus. Adirondack Medical Center and Elizabethtown Community Hospital play important roles in providing local healthcare services and facilitating access to larger facilities. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage when selecting a hospital for lung cancer treatment. Consultation with a primary care physician and/or oncologist is essential to develop a personalized treatment plan. This review provides a starting point for understanding the landscape of lung cancer care in the region, but it is crucial to conduct thorough research and seek professional medical advice.