13833, Port Crane, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13833, Port Crane, New York is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 13833

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Access to quality care, particularly in the early stages, is critical for improved outcomes. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 13833 (Norwich, NY) with a focus on lung cancer treatment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. While Norwich itself is a smaller community, residents often seek care in larger regional centers.

**Regional Powerhouses: Binghamton and Syracuse**

The most likely destinations for advanced lung cancer care for residents of 13833 are the larger cities of Binghamton and Syracuse. These urban centers boast more comprehensive medical facilities and specialized oncology services.

**Upstate University Hospital, Syracuse: A Major Player**

Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse is a significant regional healthcare provider. It is a teaching hospital affiliated with the State University of New York (SUNY) Upstate Medical University. While its CMS star rating fluctuates, it generally hovers around 3 or 4 stars, reflecting a mixed performance across various quality metrics. This rating should be considered in conjunction with other factors.

Upstate’s Cancer Center offers a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment. They have dedicated thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff. The hospital provides access to advanced diagnostic tools, including PET/CT scans and bronchoscopy, crucial for accurate staging and treatment planning. Upstate University Hospital is also involved in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies.

ER wait times at Upstate can vary, but are typically longer than smaller community hospitals. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. The hospital has made strides in telehealth, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas. Specific statistics on telehealth usage for oncology patients are available on the hospital's website or through patient services.

**Lourdes Hospital, Binghamton: A Community-Focused Option**

Lourdes Hospital in Binghamton, part of the Ascension health system, is another option for residents near 13833. Lourdes generally receives a 3- or 4-star rating from CMS. This hospital emphasizes a community-based approach to healthcare.

Lourdes offers a comprehensive cancer program, including lung cancer treatment. They have a dedicated oncology department with medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical specialists. The hospital provides access to chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. While Lourdes might not have the same breadth of clinical trials as Upstate, they often participate in collaborative research initiatives.

ER wait times at Lourdes are generally shorter than at Upstate, making it a potentially faster option for urgent care. The hospital is actively expanding its telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring. Specific data on telehealth usage for oncology patients can be found on their website or by contacting the hospital's patient relations department.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Community Hospitals**

While the primary focus is on the larger regional centers, smaller community hospitals closer to Norwich, like Chenango Memorial Hospital (Norwich, NY), can play a role in lung cancer care. These hospitals often provide initial diagnostic testing, supportive care, and potentially some chemotherapy treatments. However, for complex cases, surgery, and advanced therapies, patients are typically referred to the larger centers in Binghamton or Syracuse.

**Chenango Memorial Hospital (Norwich, NY): Local Support**

Chenango Memorial Hospital, located directly in Norwich, provides essential healthcare services for the local community. While not a primary lung cancer treatment center, it offers crucial support services. They can perform initial diagnostic tests, such as chest X-rays and CT scans, which are critical for early detection. They also provide supportive care, including pain management and palliative care services, which are essential for patients undergoing treatment.

Chenango Memorial Hospital has a dedicated oncology department that works in collaboration with larger regional cancer centers. This means that patients can receive some aspects of their care locally while still having access to the specialized expertise and resources of the larger hospitals. The hospital's ER wait times are generally shorter than those in larger urban centers, providing quicker access to emergency care.

Chenango Memorial Hospital is also expanding its telehealth capabilities. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live in rural areas and may have difficulty traveling to larger cities for follow-up appointments or consultations. The hospital's website or patient services department can provide specific details on telehealth services available for oncology patients.

**The Importance of Early Detection and Screening**

Regardless of the hospital chosen, early detection is paramount in lung cancer treatment. Patients should discuss lung cancer screening with their primary care physicians, especially if they are current or former smokers or have a family history of the disease. Low-dose CT scans are the primary screening tool, and they are available at all the hospitals mentioned.

**Navigating the System: Key Questions to Ask**

When choosing a hospital or oncologist, patients should ask critical questions:

* **What is the hospital's experience treating lung cancer?** Inquire about the number of lung cancer cases treated annually.
* **Does the hospital offer multidisciplinary care?** Ensure access to a team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Are clinical trials available?** Ask about participation in clinical trials and access to cutting-edge therapies.
* **What are the hospital's ER wait times?** Understand potential wait times for urgent care needs.
* **What telehealth services are available?** Inquire about virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring options.
* **What is the hospital's CMS star rating?** While not the sole indicator, it provides a general overview of quality.
* **What are the hospital's infection control protocols?** Ask about measures to prevent hospital-acquired infections.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

The best hospital for lung cancer treatment near ZIP code 13833 depends on individual needs and preferences. Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse and Lourdes Hospital in Binghamton are major regional players with comprehensive cancer programs. Chenango Memorial Hospital in Norwich offers essential support services and local access to care. Careful consideration of factors like CMS ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and the patient's specific needs is crucial for making an informed decision. Consulting with a primary care physician and seeking second opinions are highly recommended. Remember that early detection and proactive engagement with the healthcare system are critical for successful lung cancer treatment.