12996, Willsboro, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12996, Willsboro, New York is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care in the Adirondacks: A Hospital Scorecard Near ZIP Code 12996**

Finding the best lung cancer care requires careful consideration, especially when navigating a rural landscape. ZIP code 12996, encompassing the town of Tupper Lake, New York, sits within the Adirondack Park, a vast area with limited healthcare infrastructure. This review examines the available options, focusing on proximity, quality metrics, and specialized services, to help patients and their families make informed decisions.

**The Landscape: Limited Choices, Critical Needs**

The immediate vicinity of Tupper Lake offers limited hospital choices. Residents often rely on facilities located further afield, increasing travel time and potentially impacting access to timely diagnosis and treatment. This review will primarily focus on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering the challenges of accessing care in a geographically dispersed region.

**Adirondack Medical Center (Saranac Lake): The Local Hub**

Adirondack Medical Center (AMC) in Saranac Lake, approximately 30 miles from Tupper Lake, serves as a primary healthcare provider for the region. As of the latest available data, AMC does not have a CMS star rating. This rating, provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, is a useful indicator of overall hospital quality based on various metrics. AMC is part of the Adirondack Health system.

AMC offers diagnostic imaging services, including CT scans and X-rays, crucial for lung cancer detection and staging. They also provide chemotherapy services, allowing patients to receive treatment closer to home. However, the availability of specialized lung cancer care, such as advanced surgical procedures or radiation therapy, may be limited. Patients requiring these services may need to be referred to larger facilities.

**ER Wait Times at AMC:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor in evaluating a hospital's accessibility. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, publicly available data suggests that wait times at AMC can vary. Patients should check the hospital's website or use online resources to obtain the most up-to-date information before seeking emergency care.

**Telehealth at AMC:**

Telehealth services are increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. AMC offers telehealth consultations for certain specialties, potentially easing the burden of travel for follow-up appointments or consultations. The extent of telehealth services for lung cancer patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Glens Falls Hospital: A Regional Option**

Glens Falls Hospital, located approximately 80 miles from Tupper Lake, is a larger facility that may offer a broader range of specialized services. It is part of the Glens Falls Hospital system. As of the latest data, Glens Falls Hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This rating suggests a moderate level of overall quality, according to CMS standards.

Glens Falls Hospital has a dedicated cancer center that provides comprehensive care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. They offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options for lung cancer, including minimally invasive surgical techniques and advanced radiation therapy.

**ER Wait Times at Glens Falls Hospital:**

Glens Falls Hospital generally has higher patient volumes than AMC. Publicly available data indicates that ER wait times at Glens Falls Hospital can vary. It's important to check the hospital's website or use online resources to obtain the most current information on wait times.

**Telehealth at Glens Falls Hospital:**

Glens Falls Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations with specialists. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in remote areas, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**University of Vermont Medical Center (Burlington, VT): A Further Reach**

The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington, Vermont, is a significant regional medical center, located approximately 100 miles from Tupper Lake. UVMMC is a large, academic medical center with a comprehensive cancer program. As of the latest available data, UVMMC has a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

UVMMC's Cancer Center offers a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care, with specialists in medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and pulmonology working collaboratively. They provide cutting-edge treatments, including clinical trials, targeted therapies, and advanced surgical techniques.

**ER Wait Times at UVMMC:**

As a major referral center, UVMMC often experiences high patient volumes, which can affect ER wait times. Patients should check the hospital's website or use online resources to obtain the most up-to-date information before seeking emergency care.

**Telehealth at UVMMC:**

UVMMC has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations with specialists, including oncologists. This can be particularly helpful for patients in rural areas who need to travel long distances for appointments.

**Albany Medical Center: A Capital Option**

Albany Medical Center, located approximately 140 miles from Tupper Lake, is another option for lung cancer care. As of the latest available data, Albany Medical Center has a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

Albany Medical Center has a comprehensive cancer center offering a full range of lung cancer treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. They also participate in clinical trials, providing access to the latest treatment options.

**ER Wait Times at Albany Medical Center:**

Albany Medical Center, being a large regional hospital, can have varying ER wait times. Patients should check the hospital's website or use online resources to obtain the most current information before seeking emergency care.

**Telehealth at Albany Medical Center:**

Albany Medical Center offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with specialists, which can be particularly useful for patients in remote areas.

**Factors Beyond the Hospital: The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach**

Beyond the specific hospital, the quality of lung cancer care depends on a multidisciplinary approach. This includes:

* **Pulmonologists:** Specialists in lung diseases who diagnose and manage lung conditions.
* **Medical Oncologists:** Physicians who specialize in treating cancer with chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncologists:** Physicians who use radiation therapy to treat cancer.
* **Thoracic Surgeons:** Surgeons who specialize in operations on the chest, including lung cancer surgery.
* **Pathologists:** Doctors who examine tissue samples to diagnose cancer.
* **Radiologists:** Physicians who interpret medical images, such as CT scans and X-rays.
* **Support Services:** Access to social workers, psychologists, and support groups is crucial for patients and their families.

**Considerations for Patients in the Adirondacks**

* **Travel Distance:** The vast distances in the Adirondacks necessitate careful consideration of travel time and the availability of transportation.
* **Specialized Expertise:** Patients with complex lung cancer cases may benefit from seeking care at larger hospitals with specialized expertise.
* **Telehealth Opportunities:** Telehealth can significantly reduce the burden of travel for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Support Systems:** Access to local support groups and resources can be invaluable for patients and their families.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the chosen hospital and specialists are within your insurance network.

**Conclusion: Navigating Lung Cancer Care Near 12996**

Choosing the best hospital for lung cancer care near ZIP code 12996 requires careful consideration of factors such as proximity, specialized services, and overall quality. While the immediate area offers limited options, regional hospitals like Glens Falls Hospital, the University of Vermont Medical Center, and Albany Medical Center provide more comprehensive care. Patients should carefully evaluate their individual needs, consider the benefits of telehealth, and prioritize access to a multidisciplinary team of specialists. By researching available options and understanding the resources available, individuals can make informed decisions and receive the best possible care for their lung cancer journey.