13845, Tioga Center, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13845, Tioga Center, New York is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 13845

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Accessing high-quality care close to home is paramount. This review analyzes hospitals near ZIP code 13845 (Oneonta, NY) to assess their capabilities in diagnosing, treating, and supporting patients with lung cancer. We'll examine key factors including hospital quality ratings, specialized services, wait times, and telehealth options.

**A Limited Landscape: Primary Considerations**

The immediate vicinity of Oneonta presents a limited selection of hospitals. The primary healthcare providers serving this area are typically Bassett Healthcare Network facilities, including Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown. Due to the rural nature of the region, patients may need to travel further for specialized care. This review will therefore focus on the primary providers in the area, with an understanding that patients may need to consider hospitals in larger metropolitan areas for specific treatments or advanced technologies.

**Bassett Medical Center: The Flagship and Its Challenges**

Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, NY, is the flagship hospital for the Bassett Healthcare Network and the most readily accessible for residents of 13845. While it's a significant regional provider, it's crucial to understand its limitations in the context of lung cancer care.

Bassett Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality based on various metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. A 3-star rating indicates average performance. It's essential to interpret this within the context of the hospital's role as a regional provider serving a rural population.

**Specialized Services at Bassett:**

Bassett Medical Center offers a range of services relevant to lung cancer care. They have a dedicated cancer center, which provides medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology services. This means patients can receive chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions locally. The hospital also has a pulmonology department that focuses on respiratory illnesses, including lung cancer diagnosis and management.

**Diagnostic Capabilities:**

Bassett Medical Center is equipped with advanced imaging technology, including CT scans and PET scans, which are crucial for diagnosing and staging lung cancer. They also perform bronchoscopies and other diagnostic procedures to obtain tissue samples for biopsy.

**Surgical Oncology:**

The hospital has surgical oncologists who perform lung cancer surgeries, including lobectomies (removal of a lobe of the lung) and pneumonectomies (removal of an entire lung). The availability of experienced thoracic surgeons is a critical factor in lung cancer treatment outcomes.

**ER Wait Times and Access:**

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for any hospital. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, it's important to understand that rural hospitals often face challenges in staffing and resource allocation. Patients experiencing respiratory distress or other lung cancer-related emergencies should be prepared for potential wait times, particularly during peak hours. The Bassett Healthcare Network website may offer some information on current ER wait times, but this information should be verified by calling the hospital directly.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Bassett Medical Center has invested in telehealth services, which can be beneficial for lung cancer patients. Telehealth can facilitate remote consultations with specialists, follow-up appointments, and access to support groups. The hospital's telehealth capabilities may vary depending on the specific specialty and the patient's needs. Patients should inquire about telehealth options with their physicians.

**Beyond Bassett: Regional Considerations**

For specialized treatments or access to cutting-edge technologies, patients near 13845 may need to consider hospitals in larger cities.

**Upstate University Hospital (Syracuse): A Possible Option**

Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Oneonta, is a potential option for patients seeking advanced lung cancer care. It is a teaching hospital affiliated with the State University of New York.

**Specialized Lung Cancer Centers:**

Upstate University Hospital has a comprehensive cancer center that includes specialized lung cancer programs. They often have multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and supportive care staff.

**Advanced Treatment Options:**

Upstate University Hospital may offer access to advanced treatment options, such as clinical trials, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy, which may not be available at smaller hospitals. They may also have advanced radiation therapy technologies, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

**CMS Rating and Performance:**

Upstate University Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Telehealth at Upstate:**

Upstate University Hospital has robust telehealth capabilities, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring.

**Additional Considerations for Travel:**

Traveling to Syracuse or other larger cities for treatment requires careful planning. Patients and their families should consider the following:

* **Transportation:** Arrange for reliable transportation, including options for those unable to drive themselves.
* **Accommodation:** If treatment requires multiple days, plan for lodging near the hospital.
* **Support System:** Enlist the support of family, friends, or support groups to assist with transportation, appointments, and emotional support.
* **Financial Considerations:** Understand the costs associated with treatment, including travel, accommodation, and potential out-of-pocket expenses.

**The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach:**

Lung cancer treatment is most effective when delivered by a multidisciplinary team. This team typically includes:

* **Pulmonologist:** Specializes in respiratory diseases and diagnoses lung cancer.
* **Medical Oncologist:** Prescribes and manages chemotherapy and other systemic therapies.
* **Radiation Oncologist:** Administers radiation therapy.
* **Thoracic Surgeon:** Performs lung cancer surgery.
* **Pathologist:** Analyzes tissue samples to determine the type and stage of cancer.
* **Oncology Nurse:** Provides support and education to patients.
* **Social Worker:** Assists with practical and emotional support.
* **Dietitian:** Provides nutritional guidance.
* **Physical Therapist:** Helps patients maintain their strength and mobility.

**Support Services and Resources:**

In addition to medical treatment, patients with lung cancer need access to support services. These services can include:

* **Support Groups:** Connect with other patients and share experiences.
* **Counseling:** Provides emotional support and coping strategies.
* **Financial Assistance:** Help with the costs of treatment.
* **Palliative Care:** Focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
* **Smoking Cessation Programs:** Support for quitting smoking.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Local Landscape**

For residents of 13845, Bassett Medical Center serves as the primary local provider for lung cancer care. While it offers essential services, including diagnosis, surgery, and chemotherapy, patients should be aware of its CMS rating and potential limitations. Patients may need to travel to larger hospitals, such as Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, for specialized treatments, advanced technologies, or clinical trials. Thorough research, consultation with healthcare providers, and a focus on a multidisciplinary approach are crucial for making informed decisions and receiving the best possible care. It is essential to proactively inquire about telehealth options to improve access to specialists and support services.