13687, South Colton, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13687, South Colton, New York is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Watertown, NY (ZIP Code 13687): A Comprehensive Review

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. For residents of Watertown, New York (ZIP code 13687), this review provides a fact-rich overview of the healthcare landscape, focusing on key factors like hospital quality, specialist availability, and access to care. This analysis considers both local options and those within a reasonable driving distance, emphasizing data-driven insights to guide informed choices.

**Local Healthcare Landscape: Samaritan Medical Center**

The primary hospital serving Watertown is Samaritan Medical Center, a 290-bed facility. While Samaritan Medical Center doesn't have a CMS star rating readily available, it's crucial to note that CMS star ratings are not always a perfect indicator of quality, and can vary over time. However, it is the primary hospital for the area, and it is important to understand its capabilities.

Samaritan Medical Center has a dedicated oncology department. They offer a range of services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. The hospital partners with outside specialists to provide comprehensive care, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists. While specific data on lung cancer survival rates at Samaritan is not publicly available, patients should inquire about these metrics during consultations.

ER wait times are an important factor in healthcare access. While specific ER wait times fluctuate, it is essential to ask about current wait times when seeking emergency care. Telehealth services are also becoming increasingly common. Patients should inquire about telehealth options for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists.

**Regional Considerations: Expanding the Search**

Given the potential complexities of lung cancer treatment, patients may want to consider hospitals beyond Watertown. Several larger hospitals within driving distance offer more specialized services and potentially higher volumes of lung cancer cases, which can translate to greater experience.

**Crouse Hospital, Syracuse, NY: A Regional Powerhouse**

Located approximately 75 miles from Watertown, Crouse Hospital in Syracuse, NY, is a significant regional healthcare provider. Crouse Hospital has a strong reputation for cancer care and has a dedicated cancer center. While a specific CMS star rating for Crouse Hospital isn't readily available, it is important to consider the hospital's overall quality.

Crouse Hospital offers a comprehensive lung cancer program. They have a multidisciplinary team including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and specialized nurses. The hospital offers advanced diagnostic capabilities, including PET/CT scans, and a range of treatment options, including minimally invasive surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.

Crouse Hospital is affiliated with the Upstate Cancer Center, which provides advanced cancer treatment and research. They likely participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies. Specific data on lung cancer survival rates, stage-specific outcomes, and the availability of clinical trials should be requested during consultations.

ER wait times at Crouse Hospital can vary, particularly in Syracuse. It is wise to check real-time wait times using online tools or by calling the hospital before heading to the emergency room. Telehealth services are increasingly available at Crouse Hospital. Patients should inquire about virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring options.

**Upstate University Hospital, Syracuse, NY: Academic Excellence**

Upstate University Hospital, also in Syracuse, is another major contender for lung cancer care. As a teaching hospital, Upstate University Hospital is affiliated with the State University of New York Upstate Medical University. This affiliation often translates to access to cutting-edge research, advanced technologies, and a highly skilled medical staff.

Upstate University Hospital has a dedicated cancer center that offers comprehensive lung cancer services. The hospital's team includes experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and supportive care specialists. They offer a full spectrum of diagnostic and treatment options, including advanced imaging, minimally invasive surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies.

Upstate University Hospital is actively involved in clinical trials, providing patients with access to the latest treatment approaches. Patients should inquire about participation in clinical trials and discuss the potential benefits and risks with their physicians. Specific data on lung cancer survival rates, stage-specific outcomes, and clinical trial participation should be requested.

ER wait times at Upstate University Hospital can fluctuate. It is advisable to check current wait times online or by calling the hospital before seeking emergency care. Telehealth services are available at Upstate University Hospital. Patients should inquire about virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth options.

**Additional Considerations: Beyond the Hospital Walls**

Beyond the specific hospitals, several other factors contribute to the quality of lung cancer care.

**Specialist Availability:** The availability of specialized physicians is critical. Patients should inquire about the experience and qualifications of the pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists involved in their care. Board certification and fellowship training are important indicators of expertise.

**Support Services:** Lung cancer treatment often requires extensive support services. Patients should inquire about access to social workers, patient navigators, support groups, and palliative care services. These resources can help patients manage the physical, emotional, and practical challenges of their illness.

**Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care. Online reviews, patient satisfaction surveys, and conversations with other patients can help assess the overall patient experience.

**Financial Considerations:** The cost of lung cancer treatment can be significant. Patients should discuss insurance coverage, payment options, and potential out-of-pocket expenses with the hospital's financial counselors.

**Access to Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge therapies. Patients should discuss clinical trial options with their physicians.

**The Importance of Early Detection:** Early detection is crucial for improving lung cancer survival rates. Patients should discuss lung cancer screening guidelines with their physicians, particularly if they are current or former smokers.

**Making an Informed Decision: Key Questions to Ask**

When choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment, patients should ask specific questions:

* What is the hospital's experience treating lung cancer patients?
* What is the hospital's lung cancer survival rate?
* What treatment options are available?
* Are there any clinical trials available?
* What support services are offered?
* What are the out-of-pocket costs?
* What is the ER wait time?
* Are telehealth options available?

**Conclusion: Navigating the Choices**

For residents of Watertown, NY (ZIP code 13687), the best hospital for lung cancer treatment depends on individual needs and preferences. While Samaritan Medical Center offers local care, regional hospitals like Crouse Hospital and Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse provide more specialized services and access to advanced technologies. Patients should carefully evaluate their options, consider the factors outlined in this review, and ask the right questions to make an informed decision that best suits their needs. The information provided should be used as a starting point for individual research and consultations with healthcare professionals.