12924, Keeseville, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12924, Keeseville, New York is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near ZIP Code 12924: A Detailed Hospital Review**

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer care requires a nuanced understanding of available resources, physician expertise, and patient outcomes. This review analyzes hospitals near ZIP code 12924, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized cancer centers, and telehealth capabilities, to provide a comprehensive overview for patients and their families.

**Proximity and Key Considerations**

ZIP code 12924, located in the Adirondack region of New York, presents a unique challenge for healthcare access due to its rural setting. Patients often face longer travel times to reach specialized medical centers. Therefore, this review prioritizes hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, factoring in accessibility and 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 indication of hospital performance, though they don't capture the full picture of specialized cancer care.

Unfortunately, no hospitals within a very close proximity to 12924 boast a 5-star rating from CMS. However, some hospitals in the broader region do have notable ratings and should be considered.

**Adirondack Medical Center (Saranac Lake, NY):** Adirondack Medical Center is a key healthcare provider in the area. While it may not be a flagship cancer center, it offers essential services and acts as a crucial access point. Patients may need to be transferred to larger facilities for more advanced treatments.

**University of Vermont Medical Center (Burlington, VT):** While not directly within the ZIP code's immediate vicinity, the University of Vermont Medical Center is a regional referral center. It's a significant option for patients seeking specialized cancer care. It has a good reputation and a comprehensive cancer program.

**Emergency Room Wait Times**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, especially for patients experiencing acute symptoms related to lung cancer or its treatment. Shorter wait times can indicate a more efficient and responsive healthcare system.

Data on specific ER wait times can fluctuate. However, online resources like the Hospital Compare website (CMS) and other hospital-specific websites often provide this information. Patients should check these resources for the most up-to-date data. It is always best to call the hospital to confirm the wait times.

**Specialty Cancer Centers and Programs**

The presence of a dedicated cancer center is a strong indicator of a hospital's commitment to cancer care. These centers often bring together multidisciplinary teams of specialists, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, and supportive care staff.

**University of Vermont Medical Center (Burlington, VT):** This hospital has a comprehensive cancer center, offering a wide range of services, including advanced diagnostics, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. It's a major draw for patients seeking specialized lung cancer treatment.

**Adirondack Medical Center (Saranac Lake, NY):** While not a dedicated cancer center, Adirondack Medical Center likely has a cancer program and can provide initial assessments, supportive care, and referrals to larger facilities like the University of Vermont Medical Center.

**Specific Lung Cancer Services and Expertise**

Beyond general cancer centers, it's essential to assess the specific lung cancer services offered. These include:

* **Advanced Diagnostics:** Access to state-of-the-art imaging (CT scans, PET scans, MRI), bronchoscopy, and minimally invasive biopsy techniques.
* **Surgical Expertise:** The availability of experienced thoracic surgeons who perform lung resections (lobectomy, pneumonectomy), minimally invasive surgery (VATS), and other procedures.
* **Radiation Therapy:** Access to advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
* **Medical Oncology:** Expertise in chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials, which can provide access to innovative treatments.
* **Supportive Care:** Access to palliative care, pain management, nutritional support, and psychological counseling.

**Telehealth Capabilities**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Telehealth can improve access to specialists, provide remote monitoring, and offer virtual consultations.

**University of Vermont Medical Center (Burlington, VT):** This hospital likely has robust telehealth capabilities, given its size and regional role. Telehealth can be particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, consultations with specialists, and remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment.

**Adirondack Medical Center (Saranac Lake, NY):** Adirondack Medical Center may offer telehealth services, but the scope of these services might be more limited compared to larger facilities.

**Physician Expertise and Reputation**

The experience and expertise of the physicians involved in lung cancer care are paramount. Patients should research the credentials, training, and experience of the oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists they will be seeing. Online physician directories, hospital websites, and patient reviews can provide valuable insights.

**Patient Outcomes and Survival Rates**

While it's difficult to obtain precise survival rates for individual hospitals, publicly available data from sources like the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program can provide general information on lung cancer survival rates. Patients should discuss these rates with their physicians and understand how they relate to their specific diagnosis and treatment plan.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations**

Patients should verify that the hospitals they are considering accept their insurance plan. They should also inquire about the hospital's financial assistance programs and the potential costs of treatment.

**Community Support and Resources**

Access to local support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and other community resources can be invaluable for patients and their families. These resources can provide emotional support, practical assistance, and information about navigating the healthcare system.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care near ZIP code 12924 requires careful consideration of various factors. While the immediate area may have limited options, regional centers like the University of Vermont Medical Center offer comprehensive services and specialized expertise. Patients should research hospitals, assess their specific needs, and consult with their physicians to make informed decisions about their care. The Adirondack Medical Center provides a crucial access point for initial assessment and referral. Thorough investigation, including consideration of CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, is essential to ensure the best possible outcome.