12975, Port Kent, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12975, Port Kent, New York is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Adirondacks: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 12975

The Adirondack region of New York, encompassing ZIP code 12975 (Saranac Lake), presents unique challenges and opportunities for healthcare, particularly in the realm of lung cancer treatment. Proximity to major medical centers, access to specialized care, and the availability of telehealth services are crucial factors for patients navigating this complex disease. This review examines the hospitals closest to Saranac Lake, focusing on their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth integration.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Considerations**

Patients in the Adirondacks often face geographic hurdles in accessing advanced medical care. Long distances to hospitals, especially those offering specialized oncology services, can complicate treatment plans. Therefore, the ability to provide comprehensive care locally, or to facilitate seamless referrals to larger centers, is paramount. Factors such as the availability of cutting-edge technology, the expertise of oncologists and pulmonologists, and the presence of support services like patient navigators and support groups are critical.

**Closest Hospitals: A Comparative Analysis**

The primary hospitals serving the 12975 ZIP code are located in Plattsburgh, NY, approximately an hour's drive away. These facilities offer a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient clinics.

**University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH), Plattsburgh, NY:**

CVPH is the closest major hospital to Saranac Lake. It is a flagship facility in the University of Vermont Health Network. While CVPH does not have a CMS star rating readily available on the CMS website (as of October 26, 2023), it is a significant provider in the region. The hospital offers a comprehensive cancer center, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology services. They treat a high volume of cancer patients.

CVPH’s Emergency Department (ED) wait times are a crucial factor. While specific, real-time ED wait times can fluctuate, data from third-party sources often indicate wait times that are generally within the national average. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours.

The hospital's oncology department utilizes advanced diagnostic tools, including advanced imaging technologies like PET/CT scans and sophisticated bronchoscopy techniques for lung cancer diagnosis. They offer a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, involving pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and supportive care specialists.

Telehealth integration is a growing area for CVPH. They have expanded telehealth services for oncology consultations, follow-up appointments, and supportive care, particularly for patients in remote areas. This is a critical advantage for patients in the Adirondacks, reducing the need for frequent, lengthy travel.

**Alice Hyde Medical Center, Malone, NY:**

Alice Hyde Medical Center is another hospital within a reasonable driving distance from Saranac Lake. While smaller than CVPH, Alice Hyde offers a range of services, including primary care, specialty clinics, and some cancer care services. However, the scope of their lung cancer services is generally less extensive than CVPH. They often refer patients with complex cases to larger centers.

Alice Hyde's ED wait times are typically shorter than larger hospitals like CVPH, but this can vary. Patients should confirm current wait times before seeking care.

Telehealth services are available at Alice Hyde, though the extent of oncology-specific telehealth may be limited compared to CVPH.

**Adirondack Medical Center, Saranac Lake, NY:**

Adirondack Medical Center is a smaller hospital located directly in Saranac Lake, making it the most geographically convenient for residents of the 12975 ZIP code. However, its cancer services are limited. They primarily focus on primary care, basic diagnostics, and stabilization before transferring patients requiring specialized cancer care to larger facilities like CVPH.

ED wait times at Adirondack Medical Center are generally shorter than at larger hospitals.

Telehealth services are available, but the extent of oncology-specific telehealth is limited.

**Beyond the Immediate Vicinity: Referral Centers and Specialized Care**

For patients requiring more specialized treatment or advanced technologies, referrals to larger regional medical centers are often necessary.

**University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT:**

Located approximately a two-hour drive from Saranac Lake, the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) is a major referral center for the region. UVMMC boasts a comprehensive cancer center, including advanced lung cancer treatment options like targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and clinical trials. The hospital has a 4-star CMS rating.

UVMMC has a dedicated thoracic oncology program with a team of specialists. The hospital's ED wait times are typically longer than those at CVPH.

UVMMC has a robust telehealth program, including oncology consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual support groups. This is a significant asset for patients in the Adirondacks, allowing them to access specialized expertise without frequent travel.

**Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY:**

Albany Medical Center, located approximately a three-hour drive from Saranac Lake, is another potential referral center. Albany Medical Center has a comprehensive cancer center and offers advanced lung cancer treatments. The hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

Albany Medical Center's ED wait times can vary.

Telehealth services are available at Albany Medical Center, including oncology consultations and follow-up appointments.

**The Importance of Patient Support and Navigation**

Beyond medical treatment, access to comprehensive support services is critical for lung cancer patients. These services include patient navigators, who help patients navigate the healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and access resources; support groups, providing emotional support and a sense of community; and financial assistance programs. The availability of these services varies among hospitals, but they are essential for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Geographic Gap**

Telehealth plays a crucial role in providing access to care for patients in the Adirondacks. Telehealth services can reduce the need for travel, improve access to specialists, and provide convenient follow-up care. Hospitals like CVPH and UVMMC are actively expanding their telehealth programs, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups.

**Conclusion: Navigating Lung Cancer Care Near 12975**

For residents of the 12975 ZIP code, accessing comprehensive lung cancer care requires a multi-faceted approach. CVPH in Plattsburgh is the closest major hospital, offering a range of diagnostic and treatment services. However, for more specialized care, referrals to larger centers like UVMMC in Burlington or Albany Medical Center may be necessary.

Patients should carefully consider factors such as hospital ratings, ED wait times, the availability of specialized services, and the integration of telehealth. The presence of patient navigators and support services is equally important.

While the Adirondacks presents geographic challenges, the availability of telehealth and the commitment of regional hospitals to providing quality care offer hope for patients facing this difficult disease. By understanding the available resources and proactively seeking information, patients can navigate the healthcare system and access the best possible care for their needs. Patients should always consult with their primary care physician and oncologist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their individual circumstances.