13602, Fort Drum, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13602, Fort Drum, New York is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the North Country: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 13602

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. For residents of ZIP Code 13602 (Watertown, NY), access to quality care is paramount. This review examines the landscape of lung cancer treatment options in the vicinity, focusing on hospital capabilities, performance metrics, and accessibility.

**The Landscape: Regional Powerhouses and Local Options**

The primary healthcare providers serving the 13602 area include Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown and, further afield, facilities in Syracuse and Rochester. While smaller community hospitals offer local convenience, larger regional centers often provide more specialized expertise and resources, particularly crucial in oncology.

**Samaritan Medical Center: The Local Hub**

Samaritan Medical Center, the closest major hospital to 13602, is a vital resource for the Watertown community. It's a 290-bed facility offering a range of medical services, including cancer care. While Samaritan doesn't have a dedicated, standalone cancer center with a specific name, its oncology services are integrated within the hospital. They offer chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology.

Unfortunately, CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star ratings for Samaritan Medical Center are not consistently available. The CMS star rating system provides a snapshot of a hospital's overall quality and performance, based on various metrics. However, this information is not always publicly available for all hospitals, especially smaller ones.

ER wait times at Samaritan Medical Center fluctuate. The average wait time can vary depending on the day, time of day, and the volume of patients. Data from sources like the ER Wait Times website can offer some insight, but it’s always best to check with the hospital directly for the most current information.

Telehealth services at Samaritan are increasingly common. They offer virtual consultations with specialists, which can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas who may have difficulty traveling. The specific availability of telehealth for oncology patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Upstate University Hospital, Syracuse: A Regional Leader**

Approximately 70 miles south of Watertown, Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse offers a more comprehensive range of cancer services. As a teaching hospital, it has access to cutting-edge research and technology. Upstate is a major referral center, often treating complex cases.

Upstate University Hospital has a dedicated cancer center, the Upstate Cancer Center. This center provides a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, with specialists in medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and other related fields working collaboratively.

Upstate University Hospital's CMS star rating is an important indicator of its overall quality. Patients should check the most recent CMS data to assess the hospital's performance. The CMS star rating system evaluates hospitals on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

ER wait times at Upstate University Hospital can vary. Being a larger facility, it often handles a high volume of patients. It's advisable to check the most recent ER wait time data from sources like the ER Wait Times website or directly with the hospital.

Telehealth services are well-developed at Upstate University Hospital. They offer a robust telehealth program, including virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists. This is especially valuable for patients who live far from the hospital.

**Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester: Another Option**

Roughly 150 miles west of Watertown, Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester is another major medical center that serves the region. It is part of the University of Rochester Medical Center and offers a full spectrum of cancer care.

Strong Memorial Hospital has a dedicated cancer center, the Wilmot Cancer Institute. The Wilmot Cancer Institute is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center, which signifies a high level of expertise and research capabilities. NCI designation is a significant achievement, indicating a commitment to advancing cancer research and providing comprehensive patient care.

Strong Memorial Hospital's CMS star rating is a key factor to consider. Patients should consult the most recent CMS data to assess the hospital's performance. The CMS star rating system provides a valuable overview of the hospital's quality and safety.

ER wait times at Strong Memorial Hospital can vary. As a large, busy hospital, it experiences fluctuations in wait times. Patients should check the most current ER wait time data from sources like the ER Wait Times website or the hospital itself.

Telehealth services are an integral part of Strong Memorial Hospital's offerings. They have a comprehensive telehealth program, including virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live a significant distance from the hospital.

**Specialized Lung Cancer Care: What to Look For**

When evaluating hospitals for lung cancer treatment, several factors are crucial. Look for hospitals with:

* **Multidisciplinary Teams:** A team of specialists, including medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, pathologists, and supportive care staff, working together to create individualized treatment plans.
* **Advanced Imaging and Diagnostics:** Access to state-of-the-art imaging technology, such as PET/CT scans, MRI, and bronchoscopy, for accurate diagnosis and staging.
* **Surgical Expertise:** Experienced thoracic surgeons who perform lung resections (lobectomy, pneumonectomy) with a high volume of cases.
* **Radiation Therapy Capabilities:** Access to advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).
* **Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy:** Availability of a wide range of chemotherapy drugs and targeted therapies, including access to clinical trials.
* **Supportive Care Services:** Access to supportive care services, such as pain management, palliative care, nutritional counseling, and psychological support.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials, which offer patients access to the latest treatments and research.

**Accessibility and Patient Experience**

Beyond clinical expertise, consider the practical aspects of care:

* **Proximity:** The distance to the hospital and ease of travel.
* **Appointment Availability:** How quickly you can get appointments with specialists.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Whether the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Patient Reviews:** Reading online reviews and testimonials from other patients.
* **Support Services:** The availability of support groups, patient navigators, and other resources to help you navigate the cancer journey.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

For residents of 13602, the choice of where to receive lung cancer care involves a careful balance of factors. Samaritan Medical Center provides local convenience, while Upstate University Hospital and Strong Memorial Hospital offer more specialized resources. Patients should research each hospital thoroughly, considering their individual needs and preferences. Consulting with your primary care physician and seeking referrals to oncologists is crucial. By understanding the available options and asking the right questions, patients can make informed decisions and receive the best possible care. Remember to verify all information, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth availability, directly with the hospitals, as data can change.