14416, Bergen, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14416, Bergen, New York is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Finger Lakes: A Scorecard for 14416

Finding the best lung cancer care requires more than just proximity; it demands a thorough evaluation of hospital capabilities, physician expertise, and patient outcomes. For residents of ZIP code 14416 (Canandaigua, NY, and surrounding areas), navigating the healthcare landscape requires a clear understanding of the available resources. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of hospitals within a reasonable radius, focusing on key metrics relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support.

**The Landscape: Major Players and Their Footprints**

The primary healthcare providers serving the 14416 area include UR Medicine Thompson Health in Canandaigua and Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, part of the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC). Additionally, several smaller hospitals and specialty centers within a 30-60 minute drive offer ancillary services and contribute to the overall healthcare ecosystem.

**UR Medicine Thompson Health: A Community Focus**

UR Medicine Thompson Health, located directly in Canandaigua, serves as a crucial access point for residents of 14416. While not a flagship cancer center, Thompson Health provides essential services including primary care, diagnostic imaging, and some outpatient oncology services. The hospital’s focus is on community health, emphasizing patient-centered care and local accessibility.

**Strong Memorial Hospital: The Regional Powerhouse**

Strong Memorial Hospital, the flagship hospital of URMC, stands as the dominant force in regional healthcare. Located in Rochester, approximately a 30-45 minute drive from Canandaigua, Strong Memorial offers a comprehensive array of services, including a dedicated cancer center. Strong Memorial Hospital holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), reflecting its overall quality of care. This rating considers factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

**Strong Memorial's Wilmot Cancer Institute: A Deep Dive**

The Wilmot Cancer Institute, part of Strong Memorial Hospital, is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center. This designation signifies a commitment to cutting-edge research, advanced treatment options, and comprehensive patient care. The Institute boasts a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, and supportive care professionals.

**Lung Cancer Specifics at Wilmot**

The Wilmot Cancer Institute offers a full spectrum of lung cancer services, including:

* **Early Detection:** Access to advanced imaging technologies like low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening, crucial for early detection.
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** State-of-the-art bronchoscopy, endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS), and other minimally invasive techniques for accurate diagnosis and staging.
* **Surgical Oncology:** Thoracic surgeons specializing in minimally invasive lung surgery, including video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and robotic-assisted surgery.
* **Medical Oncology:** Access to the latest chemotherapy regimens, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Advanced radiation therapy techniques, including stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
* **Clinical Trials:** Opportunities to participate in clinical trials, offering access to innovative treatments not yet widely available.
* **Supportive Care:** Comprehensive support services, including social work, nutrition counseling, palliative care, and survivorship programs.

**Telehealth Integration: Expanding Access**

Strong Memorial Hospital and the Wilmot Cancer Institute have significantly invested in telehealth capabilities. Telehealth consultations are available for various services, including oncology follow-up appointments, supportive care, and consultations with specialists. This is particularly valuable for patients in rural areas like Canandaigua, reducing the need for frequent travel. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual oncology visits per month, are not publicly available but are likely to be substantial.

**ER Wait Times: A Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, particularly for patients experiencing cancer-related complications. While specific wait times fluctuate, Strong Memorial Hospital's ER typically experiences longer wait times compared to smaller community hospitals. The average wait time can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the patient's condition. It is advisable to check the hospital's website or call ahead to get an estimate of current wait times. UR Medicine Thompson Health in Canandaigua generally reports shorter ER wait times.

**Beyond the Flagship: Other Relevant Facilities**

While Strong Memorial is the primary hub for lung cancer care, other facilities within a reasonable driving distance offer complementary services:

* **Highland Hospital (Rochester):** Part of URMC, Highland Hospital provides additional outpatient services, including radiation oncology and support groups.
* **Rochester Regional Health:** Offers a network of hospitals and specialty centers, including cancer care services. The specifics of their lung cancer programs should be researched.
* **Smaller Community Hospitals:** Hospitals in nearby towns like Geneva and Penn Yan may offer basic diagnostic services and access to primary care physicians who can facilitate referrals to Strong Memorial or other specialized centers.

**Physician Expertise: The Critical Element**

The quality of lung cancer care hinges on the expertise of the physicians involved. At Strong Memorial, the Wilmot Cancer Institute boasts a roster of highly qualified specialists. Researching the credentials, experience, and specializations of individual physicians is essential. Websites like the hospital's directory and the American Medical Association (AMA) database can provide valuable information.

**Patient Outcomes: A Complex Picture**

Assessing patient outcomes is crucial, but obtaining specific data can be challenging. Survival rates for lung cancer are complex and depend on various factors, including the stage of the disease, the patient's overall health, and the treatment received. While publicly available data on survival rates for specific hospitals may be limited, the Wilmot Cancer Institute's NCI designation suggests a commitment to achieving favorable outcomes.

**Navigating the System: A Practical Guide**

For residents of 14416, the following steps are recommended:

1. **Primary Care Physician:** Establish a strong relationship with a primary care physician who can facilitate referrals and coordinate care.
2. **Screening:** Discuss lung cancer screening with your physician, especially if you are a current or former smoker.
3. **Referral to Strong Memorial:** If a lung cancer diagnosis is suspected or confirmed, seek a referral to the Wilmot Cancer Institute at Strong Memorial Hospital.
4. **Research Physicians:** Research the credentials and experience of the specialists at the Wilmot Cancer Institute.
5. **Ask Questions:** Ask your healthcare team detailed questions about treatment options, clinical trials, and supportive care services.
6. **Utilize Telehealth:** Explore telehealth options for follow-up appointments and consultations.
7. **Consider Support Services:** Take advantage of support groups, counseling, and other resources offered by the Wilmot Cancer Institute and other organizations.

**Conclusion: A Scorecard for 14416 Residents**

For residents of the 14416 ZIP code, Strong Memorial Hospital and its Wilmot Cancer Institute provide the most comprehensive lung cancer care options. The NCI designation, advanced technologies, and multidisciplinary team of specialists make it the primary choice for complex cases. UR Medicine Thompson Health offers a convenient local access point for primary care and diagnostic services. While ER wait times at Strong Memorial can be a factor, the overall quality of care, research opportunities, and telehealth integration make it the leading option for lung cancer treatment in the region. Residents should proactively engage with their healthcare providers, research available resources, and make informed decisions based on their individual needs and circumstances.