13750, Davenport, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13750, Davenport, New York is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 13750

Finding the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision, demanding thorough research and careful consideration of factors ranging from specialized expertise to accessibility. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 13750 (Binghamton, NY) to provide a fact-rich overview for individuals and their families navigating this challenging journey. While this review aims for accuracy, it is not a substitute for direct consultation with medical professionals.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on various quality metrics, providing a general indicator of overall performance. Within a reasonable driving distance of 13750, several hospitals stand out.

**Lourdes Hospital (Binghamton, NY):** Lourdes Hospital, a member of Ascension, is a major healthcare provider in the region. While CMS star ratings can fluctuate, it's important to check the most recent CMS data for Lourdes. Lourdes offers a comprehensive cancer center, often including specialized lung cancer services. Patients should investigate the availability of advanced diagnostics like PET/CT scans and the presence of a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.

**Wilson Hospital (Johnson City, NY):** Wilson Hospital, part of United Health Services (UHS), is another significant player in the area. Similar to Lourdes, it's crucial to check the most current CMS star rating. UHS often provides a robust cancer care program, and patients should investigate the specifics of their lung cancer services, including access to clinical trials and advanced treatment options.

**Other Hospitals to Consider:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several other facilities might offer lung cancer care, depending on individual needs and preferences.

**Robert Packer Hospital (Sayre, PA):** Located across the state border, Robert Packer Hospital, part of Guthrie, is a regional referral center. It is worthwhile to check the CMS data, as well as their lung cancer services. Due to its broader reach, Robert Packer may have access to a wider range of specialists and specialized equipment.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

The presence of specialized centers and the expertise of individual physicians are crucial for lung cancer treatment. Patients should actively seek information about these aspects.

**Cancer Centers:** Both Lourdes and Wilson Hospital typically have dedicated cancer centers. These centers often bring together a multidisciplinary team, improving coordination of care. Investigate the specific programs offered, including:

* **Thoracic Surgery:** The availability of experienced thoracic surgeons is paramount. Inquire about their specific training, the number of lung cancer surgeries performed annually, and their experience with minimally invasive techniques like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).
* **Medical Oncology:** Medical oncologists specializing in lung cancer are essential for chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Ask about their experience with different treatment regimens and their participation in clinical trials.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Radiation oncologists play a vital role in delivering radiation therapy. Inquire about the availability of advanced techniques like stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT).
* **Pulmonology:** Pulmonologists are crucial for diagnosis, staging, and ongoing management of lung cancer. Look for pulmonologists with expertise in bronchoscopy, endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS), and other diagnostic procedures.

**Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments. Inquire about the availability of clinical trials at each hospital and whether the oncology team actively enrolls patients.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility:**

While not directly related to lung cancer treatment, ER wait times and overall accessibility are important factors, especially in emergencies.

**ER Wait Times:** Check publicly available data (often found on hospital websites or through sources like ProPublica) for average ER wait times at each hospital. Shorter wait times can be crucial in cases of complications or side effects from treatment.

**Accessibility:** Consider factors like:

* **Transportation:** How easy is it to get to the hospital from your home? Are there public transportation options?
* **Parking:** Is parking readily available and convenient?
* **Support Services:** Does the hospital offer support services like patient navigators, social workers, and support groups?

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and managing side effects.

**Telehealth Availability:** Inquire about the availability of telehealth services for:

* **Follow-up Appointments:** Can you have follow-up appointments with your oncologist or other specialists via video or phone?
* **Medication Management:** Can you receive medication counseling or refills remotely?
* **Symptom Management:** Does the hospital offer remote monitoring for side effects or symptoms?

**Telehealth Stats:** Hospitals should be able to provide data on their telehealth utilization, including the number of telehealth appointments conducted and patient satisfaction scores.

**Diagnostic Capabilities:**

Accurate diagnosis and staging are essential for effective lung cancer treatment.

**Advanced Imaging:** Ensure the hospital has access to advanced imaging technologies, including:

* **PET/CT Scans:** Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) scans are crucial for staging and monitoring treatment response.
* **CT Scans:** Computed tomography (CT) scans are used for detailed imaging of the chest.
* **MRI:** Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used in certain cases.

**Biopsy Capabilities:** Ask about the hospital's capabilities for performing lung biopsies, including:

* **Bronchoscopy:** A procedure to visualize the airways.
* **EBUS:** Endobronchial ultrasound, used to obtain tissue samples from lymph nodes.
* **CT-Guided Biopsy:** A minimally invasive procedure to obtain tissue samples from lung nodules.

**Patient Reviews and Reputation:**

While not a definitive measure, patient reviews and the hospital's overall reputation can provide valuable insights.

**Online Reviews:** Search online review platforms (e.g., Healthgrades, Vitals, Google Reviews) for patient experiences. Pay attention to comments about:

* **Physician Communication:** How well do doctors explain diagnoses and treatment options?
* **Staff Courtesy:** Are the staff members helpful and compassionate?
* **Wait Times:** Are wait times reasonable?
* **Overall Satisfaction:** Would patients recommend the hospital?

**Hospital Reputation:** Consider the hospital's reputation in the community and its standing among healthcare professionals.

**Financial Considerations:**

Navigating the financial aspects of lung cancer treatment can be complex.

**Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
**Cost Estimates:** Obtain cost estimates for treatment and understand your out-of-pocket expenses.
**Financial Assistance:** Inquire about financial assistance programs offered by the hospital or cancer organizations.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision. By carefully evaluating the factors outlined in this review, individuals near ZIP code 13750 can make informed choices and find the best possible care. Remember to actively engage with healthcare providers, ask questions, and advocate for your own needs. Continuous evaluation of CMS data and hospital-specific information is essential for staying informed about the evolving landscape of lung cancer care.