13696, West Stockholm, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13696, West Stockholm, New York is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 13696**

This review examines the landscape of lung cancer care options for individuals residing near ZIP code 13696, focusing on hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility. The information is compiled from publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and hospital websites. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice.

**Regional Overview**

ZIP code 13696, encompassing the city of Watertown, New York, and its surrounding areas, presents a unique healthcare environment. Residents have access to a mix of community hospitals and regional medical centers. Access to specialized lung cancer care, including advanced diagnostics and treatment options, is a key consideration for patients and their families. The availability of comprehensive services, from screening to survivorship programs, is crucial.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a general indicator of quality. However, it is important to remember that this rating is only one piece of the puzzle.

**Samaritan Medical Center**

Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, NY, is the primary hospital serving the local community. As of the latest available data, Samaritan Medical Center has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This rating reflects a hospital's overall performance in areas like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. It is crucial to consider this rating alongside other factors when evaluating the hospital's suitability for lung cancer care.

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Programs**

The presence of dedicated lung cancer programs and specialty centers is a significant factor in assessing a hospital's capabilities. These programs often bring together a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and nurses, to provide comprehensive care.

Samaritan Medical Center offers a cancer care program. This program is likely to have a team of specialists and resources to provide lung cancer care.

**Diagnostic Capabilities**

Access to advanced diagnostic tools is critical for accurate lung cancer detection and staging. These tools include low-dose CT scans, bronchoscopy, and PET/CT scans. The availability of these technologies within a hospital can significantly impact the timeliness and accuracy of diagnosis.

Samaritan Medical Center likely offers these diagnostic tools.

**Treatment Options**

The range of treatment options available is another key consideration. Lung cancer treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Hospitals with comprehensive lung cancer programs often offer a full spectrum of these treatments.

Samaritan Medical Center offers chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

**ER Wait Times**

Emergency room (ER) wait times can be an important factor, especially for patients experiencing symptoms related to lung cancer or complications from treatment. Shorter wait times can improve patient comfort and potentially expedite care. Publicly available data on ER wait times can vary, but it is often available on hospital websites or through third-party sources.

ER wait times at Samaritan Medical Center can be found on the hospital website or through third-party sources.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring. Hospitals that offer telehealth options can provide greater convenience and accessibility for patients, especially those in rural areas.

Samaritan Medical Center offers telehealth services.

**Accessibility and Patient Experience**

Accessibility involves factors like ease of access to the hospital, parking, and the availability of interpreters. Patient experience encompasses factors like communication with healthcare providers, the cleanliness of the hospital, and the overall satisfaction of patients.

Samaritan Medical Center is accessible. Patient experience information can be found on the hospital's website.

**Community Resources and Support**

Beyond medical care, access to community resources and support groups is essential for lung cancer patients and their families. These resources can provide emotional support, practical assistance, and information about local services.

Samaritan Medical Center offers support groups.

**Hospital Comparison Considerations**

When comparing hospitals, consider the following factors:

* **Specialty Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the lung cancer specialists.
* **Treatment Options:** The range of available treatment options.
* **Technology:** The availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores and feedback.
* **Accessibility:** The ease of access to the hospital and its services.
* **Insurance Coverage:** The hospital's acceptance of your insurance plan.

**Conclusion**

For residents near ZIP code 13696, Samaritan Medical Center provides a range of services for lung cancer care. Patients should consult with their primary care physician and consider their individual needs and preferences when selecting a hospital. Further research, including consultations with specialists and a review of patient testimonials, is recommended to make an informed decision.