13605, Adams, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13605, Adams, New York is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near Watertown, NY (ZIP Code 13605)

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Finding the right care, close to home, is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals serving the Watertown, NY (13605) area, providing a fact-rich overview of their lung cancer services, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information is designed to empower patients and their families in making informed decisions.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare landscape surrounding Watertown, NY, is primarily shaped by a few key players. Proximity to larger urban centers like Syracuse and Rochester expands options, but local facilities offer crucial initial care and ongoing support. This review examines the strengths and weaknesses of these providers, focusing on their ability to diagnose, treat, and manage lung cancer.

**Carthage Area Hospital:**

Carthage Area Hospital, located in Carthage, NY, is a critical access hospital serving a surrounding rural population. While not a flagship cancer center, it provides essential services. Carthage Area Hospital does not have a CMS star rating. Its focus is on primary care and basic hospital services. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer at Carthage Area Hospital are likely to be referred to larger facilities for specialized treatment. The hospital’s ER wait times, while varying, are generally shorter than those of larger hospitals. Telehealth capabilities are present, primarily for specialist consultations and follow-up appointments, but may be limited compared to larger institutions.

**River Hospital:**

River Hospital, situated in Alexandria Bay, NY, is another critical access hospital. Like Carthage Area Hospital, it serves a rural population and offers essential medical services. River Hospital also does not have a CMS star rating. Its role in lung cancer care is similar to Carthage Area Hospital, focusing on initial assessments and referrals. ER wait times are typically shorter than larger facilities, but this can fluctuate. Telehealth services are available, potentially offering access to specialists for consultations and follow-up care.

**Samaritan Medical Center, Watertown, NY:**

Samaritan Medical Center, located directly in Watertown, NY, is the primary hospital serving the area. This is the most likely first point of contact for individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer. Samaritan Medical Center holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates a generally acceptable level of quality and safety.

Samaritan Medical Center has a dedicated cancer center, the Walker Center for Cancer Care. This center offers a multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The Walker Center provides chemotherapy and radiation therapy services on-site. Surgical options, including thoracic surgery for lung cancer, are available.

ER wait times at Samaritan Medical Center fluctuate, but the hospital strives to maintain reasonable wait times. Patients seeking immediate care should be prepared for potential delays. Telehealth services are increasingly available at Samaritan Medical Center, offering remote consultations with specialists, follow-up appointments, and access to educational resources. The hospital is actively expanding its telehealth capabilities.

Samaritan Medical Center is also affiliated with Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, NY, which provides access to a broader network of specialists and advanced treatment options. This affiliation can facilitate referrals and access to clinical trials.

**Upstate Medical University Hospital, Syracuse, NY:**

Upstate Medical University Hospital, located in Syracuse, NY, is a major academic medical center approximately an hour's drive from Watertown. This hospital is a flagship facility, offering a comprehensive range of specialized services. Upstate Medical University Hospital holds a 4-star rating from CMS, reflecting a high level of quality and patient care.

Upstate Medical University Hospital boasts a dedicated cancer center, the Upstate Cancer Center. This center provides a full spectrum of lung cancer services, including advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and access to cutting-edge clinical trials. They have specialized thoracic surgeons with expertise in minimally invasive techniques. The hospital is equipped with advanced radiation therapy technologies, including stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

ER wait times at Upstate Medical University Hospital can be longer than at smaller hospitals, given its role as a regional referral center. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, particularly during peak hours. The hospital has a robust telehealth program, offering remote consultations with specialists, remote monitoring, and virtual support groups. Upstate Medical University Hospital is at the forefront of telehealth innovation.

**Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester, NY:**

Strong Memorial Hospital, located in Rochester, NY, is another major academic medical center, approximately a two-hour drive from Watertown. This hospital is a leading provider of specialized healthcare services. Strong Memorial Hospital holds a 4-star rating from CMS.

Strong Memorial Hospital has a comprehensive cancer center, the Wilmot Cancer Institute. This institute provides a full range of lung cancer services, including advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and access to clinical trials. The hospital has a team of highly skilled thoracic surgeons and offers advanced surgical techniques, including robotic-assisted surgery. They have state-of-the-art radiation therapy equipment.

ER wait times at Strong Memorial Hospital can be significant, particularly during periods of high patient volume. Patients seeking emergency care should be prepared for potential delays. Strong Memorial Hospital has a well-established telehealth program, offering remote consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual support services. The hospital is actively investing in expanding its telehealth capabilities.

**Key Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients:**

* **Stage of Cancer:** The stage of the cancer is a critical factor in determining the appropriate treatment plan. Early-stage cancers may be amenable to surgery, while advanced-stage cancers often require a combination of treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.
* **Access to Specialists:** Lung cancer treatment requires a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and pathologists. Access to these specialists is essential.
* **Treatment Options:** Consider the availability of various treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Access to clinical trials can also be a significant benefit.
* **Support Services:** Lung cancer patients and their families often benefit from support services, including counseling, support groups, and palliative care.
* **Proximity and Travel:** While advanced care may require travel to larger centers, consider the convenience of accessing care closer to home for follow-up appointments, supportive care, and overall quality of life.
* **Patient Reviews:** Research patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the experiences of other patients at each hospital. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can be helpful.

**Telehealth's Growing Role:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in cancer care. It offers convenience for follow-up appointments, remote monitoring of symptoms, and access to support groups. When evaluating hospitals, consider the availability and scope of their telehealth programs.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of the Watertown, NY (13605) area, Samaritan Medical Center provides the most accessible local care for initial diagnosis and treatment. However, depending on the complexity of the case and the desired treatment options, referral to Upstate Medical University Hospital in Syracuse or Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester may be necessary. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, the stage of their cancer, and their preferences when choosing a hospital. Thorough research, consultation with healthcare providers, and open communication are essential for making informed decisions and navigating the complexities of lung cancer care.