13691, Theresa, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13691, Theresa, New York is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the North Country: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 13691

Finding the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. For residents of ZIP code 13691 (Potsdam, NY), access to quality care is a paramount concern. This review examines the hospitals in the vicinity, focusing on factors crucial for lung cancer patients: expertise, resources, and patient experience. We'll delve into CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and the availability of telehealth options to provide a comprehensive overview.

**The Landscape of Care: Key Players**

The immediate area around Potsdam, NY, offers a limited but important selection of hospitals. The primary players in this healthcare ecosystem are St. Lawrence Health System, which includes Canton-Potsdam Hospital, and Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg. These institutions are the cornerstones of local healthcare, and their capabilities are central to the lung cancer treatment landscape.

**Canton-Potsdam Hospital: A Local Hub**

Canton-Potsdam Hospital, part of St. Lawrence Health System, serves as the primary hospital for Potsdam residents. While it is a community hospital, its role in initial diagnosis and stabilization is significant. As of the latest available data, Canton-Potsdam Hospital does not have a CMS star rating. This rating, assigned by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, is a general indicator of overall hospital quality, based on factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. Absence of a rating doesn't necessarily equate to poor care, but it limits the ability to compare its performance against other hospitals with ratings.

Regarding emergency room wait times, data is subject to change and can vary based on the time of day and the severity of cases. However, local sources suggest that wait times at Canton-Potsdam Hospital are generally in line with or slightly above the national average for similar-sized hospitals. Lung cancer patients, particularly those experiencing complications, require timely access to care, so this is a crucial consideration.

Canton-Potsdam Hospital offers diagnostic imaging services, including CT scans and X-rays, essential for lung cancer detection and staging. The hospital also provides chemotherapy and supportive care, allowing patients to receive some treatments locally. However, it is important to note that the hospital does not have a dedicated lung cancer center.

**Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center: Regional Considerations**

Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg is another key hospital within reasonable driving distance. Like Canton-Potsdam Hospital, Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center does not have a CMS star rating. This hospital provides a broader range of services than Canton-Potsdam Hospital, including some specialized care.

Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center's emergency room wait times are also a factor to consider. Local reports and publicly available data suggest that wait times are generally comparable to those at Canton-Potsdam Hospital.

While Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center does not have a dedicated lung cancer center, it offers oncology services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Patients may have access to medical oncologists and radiation oncologists. The hospital also provides diagnostic imaging services, including CT scans and PET scans, which are crucial for lung cancer diagnosis and monitoring.

**The Importance of Specialty Centers and Expertise**

For advanced lung cancer treatment, patients often need to seek care at hospitals with specialized lung cancer centers. These centers typically offer multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and specialized nurses.

Neither Canton-Potsdam Hospital nor Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center has a dedicated, comprehensive lung cancer center. This means that patients may need to travel to larger hospitals for advanced treatment options such as complex surgeries, clinical trials, and access to cutting-edge therapies.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Potsdam. Telehealth allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel. Both Canton-Potsdam Hospital and Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center offer telehealth services, including consultations with specialists. The availability and scope of telehealth services can vary, so patients should inquire directly about the availability of telehealth options for lung cancer-related care, such as follow-up appointments, consultations with oncologists, and support group meetings.

**Beyond the Immediate Area: Exploring Options**

While Canton-Potsdam Hospital and Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center are the closest options, patients may need to consider hospitals further afield to access specialized care.

**University Hospitals: A Broader Reach**

Patients may consider traveling to university hospitals, which often have advanced cancer centers. These hospitals typically have access to cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and a wider range of specialists. The closest university hospitals are a significant drive away.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment involves several factors:

* **Expertise:** Does the hospital have a dedicated lung cancer center with a multidisciplinary team?
* **Resources:** Does the hospital offer the full range of diagnostic and treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials?
* **Patient Experience:** What are the hospital's patient satisfaction scores? How are patients treated by the staff?
* **Accessibility:** How far is the hospital from your home? What are the transportation options?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital accept your insurance plan?

**Navigating the System: Key Steps**

For residents of 13691 diagnosed with or suspected of having lung cancer, the following steps are crucial:

1. **Initial Assessment:** Begin with your primary care physician. They can order initial diagnostic tests and refer you to a specialist.
2. **Consultation with a Pulmonologist:** A pulmonologist (lung specialist) will conduct further tests and provide a diagnosis.
3. **Oncologist Referral:** If lung cancer is diagnosed, you will be referred to a medical oncologist who will develop a treatment plan.
4. **Research and Evaluation:** Research the hospitals in the area, considering the factors outlined above.
5. **Seek Second Opinions:** It is always advisable to seek a second opinion from another oncologist, especially at a hospital with a dedicated lung cancer center.
6. **Discuss Treatment Options:** Discuss treatment options with your oncologist, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials.
7. **Consider Support Services:** Explore the availability of support services, such as support groups, counseling, and palliative care.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

For residents of Potsdam, NY (ZIP code 13691), the healthcare landscape presents both opportunities and challenges. Canton-Potsdam Hospital and Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center provide essential local care, including diagnostic services, chemotherapy, and supportive care. However, neither hospital has a dedicated lung cancer center, which may necessitate travel to larger hospitals for advanced treatment options. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, insurance coverage, and the availability of specialized services when making decisions about their lung cancer treatment. Thorough research, consultations with multiple specialists, and a proactive approach to care are essential to navigating this complex journey. The availability of telehealth services can help bridge the distance and provide convenient access to care, but it's crucial to inquire about the specific telehealth options available for lung cancer patients. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on the individual patient's specific needs and circumstances.