13630, De Kalb Junction, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13630, De Kalb Junction, New York is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the North Country: A Look at Hospitals Near ZIP Code 13630

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. For residents of the 13630 ZIP code, which encompasses the city of Massena, New York, and surrounding areas, access to specialized care is a key consideration. This review examines hospitals in the region, focusing on their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. It delves into factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options, providing a fact-based overview to aid in informed decision-making.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance:**

The immediate vicinity of Massena doesn't boast a large concentration of major medical centers. Residents often look to larger cities for comprehensive cancer care. However, several hospitals within a reasonable driving distance offer varying levels of service.

**Canton-Potsdam Hospital (CPH):** Located approximately 30 miles from Massena, CPH is a key healthcare provider for the region. While it may not have a dedicated, standalone cancer center, CPH offers oncology services, including chemotherapy and supportive care. CPH is part of St. Lawrence Health System. CMS data shows CPH has an overall rating of 3 stars. This rating reflects performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. ER wait times at CPH can fluctuate, but data suggests they are generally in line with or slightly better than the national average. It is important to note that ER wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of cases being treated.

**University Hospital (Upstate Medical University), Syracuse, NY:** Approximately 100 miles south of Massena, Upstate Medical University Hospital in Syracuse offers a comprehensive cancer center. This facility is a major referral center for the region, providing a full spectrum of cancer services, including surgical oncology, radiation oncology, medical oncology, and access to clinical trials. Upstate Medical University Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. The hospital is known for its specialized programs and experienced medical staff. ER wait times at Upstate Medical University Hospital are generally in line with other large teaching hospitals, and can vary depending on the time of day and patient volume.

**Other Hospitals to Consider:**

Other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance may also offer relevant services. These hospitals may not have dedicated cancer centers but may offer some level of oncology care, including chemotherapy or palliative care.

**Alice Hyde Medical Center, Malone, NY:** Located approximately 60 miles from Massena, Alice Hyde Medical Center is another option for some residents. It offers a range of services, including oncology support. Alice Hyde Medical Center is a smaller community hospital.

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Expertise:**

The presence of specialized cancer centers is a crucial factor in assessing lung cancer care. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together specialists in pulmonology, medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and other supportive services.

Upstate Medical University Hospital's Cancer Center is a significant resource for the region. It offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including minimally invasive surgical techniques, targeted therapies, and access to clinical trials. The center's multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive and individualized care.

**Diagnostic Capabilities:**

Accurate and timely diagnosis is essential for effective lung cancer treatment. Hospitals should offer a full range of diagnostic capabilities, including:

* **Advanced Imaging:** CT scans, PET scans, and MRI are critical for detecting and staging lung cancer.
* **Bronchoscopy:** This procedure allows doctors to visualize the airways and obtain tissue samples for biopsy.
* **Biopsy Techniques:** Fine needle aspiration, endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS), and surgical biopsies are used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of lung cancer.

Upstate Medical University Hospital has a strong diagnostic program, offering advanced imaging and minimally invasive biopsy techniques. CPH and Alice Hyde Medical Center offer diagnostic services, though the scope may be more limited.

**Treatment Options:**

The best hospitals provide a comprehensive range of treatment options, including:

* **Surgery:** Surgical removal of the tumor is often the primary treatment for early-stage lung cancer.
* **Radiation Therapy:** This uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
* **Chemotherapy:** This uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
* **Targeted Therapy:** This uses drugs that target specific cancer cells.
* **Immunotherapy:** This uses the body's immune system to fight cancer.

Upstate Medical University Hospital offers all of these treatment modalities, with a focus on the latest advancements in cancer care. CPH and Alice Hyde Medical Center offer chemotherapy and supportive care, but surgical and radiation oncology services are generally referred to larger centers.

**ER Wait Times and Access to Care:**

ER wait times are an important consideration, particularly in emergency situations. While not directly related to lung cancer treatment, long wait times can be a sign of hospital overcrowding or resource constraints.

As mentioned earlier, ER wait times at CPH and Upstate Medical University Hospital can vary. Patients should be aware that wait times are influenced by various factors and should not be the sole determinant of where to seek care.

**Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring:**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Telehealth can provide patients with access to specialists, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring.

Upstate Medical University Hospital has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring. This can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel. CPH and Alice Hyde Medical Center may offer some telehealth services, but the scope is likely more limited.

**Patient Support Services:**

Comprehensive cancer care includes more than just medical treatment. Hospitals should offer a range of support services, including:

* **Patient Navigation:** Assistance with navigating the healthcare system, scheduling appointments, and understanding treatment options.
* **Support Groups:** Opportunities to connect with other patients and share experiences.
* **Counseling:** Mental health support for patients and their families.
* **Financial Assistance:** Help with managing the costs of cancer treatment.

Upstate Medical University Hospital's Cancer Center offers a comprehensive range of support services. CPH and Alice Hyde Medical Center offer some support services, but the scope may be more limited.

**CMS Star Ratings and Quality of Care:**

CMS star ratings are a valuable tool for assessing hospital quality. These ratings are based on a variety of measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While not a perfect measure, they provide a general indication of hospital performance.

As noted earlier, Upstate Medical University Hospital has a 3-star rating. CPH has a 3-star rating. These ratings should be considered in conjunction with other factors, such as the hospital's expertise in lung cancer treatment and its commitment to patient-centered care.

**Clinical Trials and Research:**

Access to clinical trials is an important consideration for patients with lung cancer. Clinical trials offer the opportunity to receive cutting-edge treatments and contribute to the advancement of cancer research.

Upstate Medical University Hospital is actively involved in clinical research and offers access to a variety of clinical trials. This provides patients with the opportunity to receive the latest treatments.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of the 13630 ZIP code seeking lung cancer care, Upstate Medical University Hospital in Syracuse is the primary option for comprehensive care. Its Cancer Center offers a full spectrum of services, including advanced diagnostics, a wide range of treatment options, and comprehensive patient support. CPH and Alice Hyde Medical Center offer some oncology services, but surgical and radiation oncology services are generally referred to larger centers. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when making their decision, taking into account factors such as access to care, treatment options, and patient support services. Consulting with a primary care physician or oncologist is crucial to determine the best course of action and ensure access to the most appropriate care.