14418, Branchport, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14418, Branchport, New York is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP Code 14418): A Comprehensive Review**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Access to quality care is paramount. This review examines the lung cancer treatment landscape for residents near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP code 14418), focusing on hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility. The information is based on publicly available data, including CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star ratings, ER wait times, and hospital websites.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The primary hospital serving the Canandaigua area is **Thompson Health**, located directly in Canandaigua. Thompson Health is a community hospital and does not have a CMS star rating. It offers comprehensive cancer care through its Sands Cancer Center, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology services.

For more advanced care, patients may seek treatment at hospitals in Rochester, NY, approximately an hour's drive away. **Strong Memorial Hospital**, the flagship hospital of the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), is a major referral center. Strong Memorial Hospital currently holds a 3-star CMS rating. The hospital's Wilmot Cancer Institute is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center, indicating a high level of research and treatment expertise.

**Highland Hospital**, also part of URMC, is another option. Highland Hospital, which is located in Rochester, has a 4-star CMS rating. Highland Hospital has a strong reputation for its surgical services, including thoracic surgery.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility**

ER wait times are a critical factor in healthcare access. The most recent data indicates that ER wait times can fluctuate significantly. It's important to note that these are averages and can vary based on the time of day, day of the week, and patient volume. Real-time wait times are often available on hospital websites or through online platforms.

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Expertise**

The **Wilmot Cancer Institute** at Strong Memorial Hospital is a significant resource for lung cancer patients. As an NCI-designated center, it offers access to cutting-edge clinical trials, advanced diagnostic technologies, and a multidisciplinary team of specialists. The institute's lung cancer program includes medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, and supportive care providers.

**Highland Hospital** also provides a specialized thoracic surgery program. This program focuses on the surgical treatment of lung cancer and other chest-related conditions.

**Diagnostic Capabilities and Treatment Options**

Both Strong Memorial Hospital and Highland Hospital offer advanced diagnostic capabilities, including:

* **CT scans:** Computed tomography scans are used to visualize the lungs and detect tumors.
* **PET scans:** Positron emission tomography scans help determine the stage of the cancer and assess its response to treatment.
* **Bronchoscopy:** This procedure involves inserting a thin tube with a camera into the airways to visualize the lungs and obtain tissue samples.
* **Biopsy:** Tissue samples are analyzed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the specific type of lung cancer.

Treatment options available at these hospitals include:

* **Surgery:** Surgical removal of the tumor is often the primary treatment for early-stage lung cancer.
* **Radiation therapy:** High-energy rays are used to kill cancer cells.
* **Chemotherapy:** Drugs are used to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
* **Targeted therapy:** Drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer growth.
* **Immunotherapy:** Drugs that help the body's immune system fight cancer.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important in cancer care, especially for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility issues. Strong Memorial Hospital and Highland Hospital both offer telehealth consultations for some oncology services. These services may include follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive care. The availability of specific telehealth services can vary depending on the patient's insurance coverage and the type of cancer treatment.

**Supportive Care Services**

Lung cancer treatment can have significant side effects. Both Strong Memorial Hospital and Highland Hospital offer comprehensive supportive care services, including:

* **Pain management:** To help patients manage pain related to cancer or treatment.
* **Nutrition counseling:** To help patients maintain a healthy diet during treatment.
* **Physical therapy:** To help patients regain strength and mobility.
* **Mental health services:** To provide emotional support and counseling.
* **Palliative care:** To improve the quality of life for patients with advanced cancer.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

The Wilmot Cancer Institute at Strong Memorial Hospital is actively involved in lung cancer research. This provides patients with access to cutting-edge clinical trials that may offer innovative treatment options. Patients interested in participating in clinical trials should discuss this with their oncologist.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is an important factor in healthcare quality. CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality, including patient satisfaction scores. However, it is also important to consider patient reviews and testimonials. Online platforms such as Healthgrades and Vitals can provide insights into patient experiences at different hospitals.

**Insurance Coverage and Financial Considerations**

The cost of lung cancer treatment can be substantial. It is important to understand your insurance coverage and the financial implications of treatment. Hospitals typically have financial counselors who can help patients navigate insurance issues and explore financial assistance options.

**Choosing the Right Hospital**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Factors to consider include:

* **The stage and type of lung cancer.**
* **The availability of specialized services, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.**
* **The hospital's experience in treating lung cancer.**
* **The hospital's proximity to your home.**
* **Your insurance coverage.**
* **Your personal preferences.**

**Conclusion**

For residents near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP code 14418), access to lung cancer care involves considering both local and regional options. Thompson Health offers a local point of entry, while Strong Memorial Hospital and Highland Hospital in Rochester provide comprehensive, specialized care, including access to clinical trials and advanced technologies. Patients should carefully evaluate their individual needs and preferences when making a decision about where to receive treatment. Consulting with a primary care physician or oncologist is essential to determine the best course of action.