14505, Marion, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14505, Marion, New York is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP Code 14505)

The Finger Lakes region of New York State, encompassing the area near Canandaigua (ZIP code 14505), presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. While the area boasts natural beauty and a strong sense of community, residents seeking specialized lung cancer care need to navigate a healthcare ecosystem that balances local options with the need for advanced expertise. This review examines the key hospitals within a reasonable radius of 14505, focusing on their lung cancer services, accessibility, and overall quality of care.

**The Landscape of Local Healthcare**

The primary hospital serving the immediate Canandaigua area is **F.F. Thompson Hospital**. This community hospital, part of UR Medicine, offers a range of services, including oncology. However, for complex lung cancer cases, patients often need to seek care at larger, more specialized centers. Thompson Hospital does not have a CMS star rating at this time. ER wait times at Thompson Hospital fluctuate, but are generally in line with the regional average. Telehealth options are available, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists.

**Venturing Beyond: Rochester's Healthcare Hub**

The city of Rochester, approximately 30-45 minutes from Canandaigua, is the dominant healthcare hub for the region. This proximity provides access to a wider array of specialists, advanced treatments, and research opportunities.

**Strong Memorial Hospital (UR Medicine): A Flagship Institution**

**Strong Memorial Hospital**, the flagship hospital of the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), is a major player in lung cancer care. This hospital consistently receives high ratings, currently holding a **4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects a commitment to quality and patient safety across a range of services, including oncology.

Strong Memorial's Wilmot Cancer Institute offers a comprehensive lung cancer program. This includes a multidisciplinary team of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff. The Institute is known for its expertise in advanced diagnostic techniques, including minimally invasive procedures and advanced imaging. They offer comprehensive lung cancer screening programs that meet the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines.

Strong Memorial also participates in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies. The hospital is a leader in immunotherapy and targeted therapies for lung cancer. ER wait times at Strong Memorial can vary, reflecting the high volume of patients served. Telehealth services are increasingly available, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, particularly through the Wilmot Cancer Institute.

**Highland Hospital (UR Medicine): A Community-Focused Option**

Another UR Medicine facility, **Highland Hospital**, also offers lung cancer services. While not as large as Strong Memorial, Highland Hospital provides a more community-focused approach, often appealing to patients seeking a less overwhelming environment. Highland Hospital does not have a CMS star rating.

Highland Hospital's oncology services are integrated with the Wilmot Cancer Institute, ensuring access to the same resources and expertise. They provide diagnostic services, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. ER wait times at Highland Hospital are generally shorter than at Strong Memorial. Telehealth options are available, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Rochester General Hospital: A Regional Provider**

**Rochester General Hospital**, part of Rochester Regional Health, is another major hospital in the Rochester area. While not having a CMS star rating, Rochester General offers a comprehensive cancer program, including services for lung cancer. They offer a multidisciplinary approach, with a team of specialists collaborating on patient care.

Rochester General Hospital provides diagnostic imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. They also offer support services, such as patient navigation and support groups. ER wait times at Rochester General Hospital are generally within the regional average. Telehealth services are available, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Beyond Rochester: Considering Other Options**

While Rochester dominates the healthcare landscape near 14505, patients may consider other options, depending on their specific needs and preferences.

**Buffalo: A Further Reach**

For highly specialized care or access to specific clinical trials, patients might consider hospitals in Buffalo, approximately a 90-minute to two-hour drive. **Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center** in Buffalo is a nationally recognized cancer center, offering a full spectrum of lung cancer services, including advanced treatments and research opportunities. Roswell Park is not rated by CMS. However, the drive to Buffalo can be a significant factor for patients and their families.

**Syracuse: An Alternative Route**

Similarly, Syracuse, about a 90-minute drive, offers another healthcare option. **Upstate University Hospital**, part of the State University of New York, has a cancer center that provides lung cancer services. This is another option for patients seeking specialized care. Upstate University Hospital does not have a CMS star rating.

**Key Considerations for Patients Near 14505**

* **Proximity and Travel:** The distance to hospitals is a crucial factor, particularly for frequent appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. Rochester offers the most accessible options.
* **Specialty Expertise:** Patients with complex lung cancer cases should seek hospitals with specialized lung cancer programs, multidisciplinary teams, and access to advanced treatments and clinical trials.
* **Hospital Ratings:** While CMS star ratings offer a general indicator of quality, they should be considered alongside other factors, such as physician experience, patient reviews, and the availability of specific services.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth can significantly reduce the burden of travel for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Patients should verify their insurance coverage for services at each hospital and ensure that their preferred providers are in-network.
* **Patient Preferences:** The best hospital is ultimately the one that best meets the individual patient's needs and preferences, including their comfort level with the hospital environment and their relationship with their healthcare providers.

**Conclusion**

For residents of Canandaigua (14505) seeking lung cancer care, the UR Medicine facilities in Rochester, particularly Strong Memorial Hospital, offer the most comprehensive and accessible options. These hospitals provide a combination of advanced expertise, access to cutting-edge treatments, and a commitment to patient care. While local options like F.F. Thompson Hospital provide essential services, patients with complex cases should strongly consider the specialized programs available in Rochester. Exploring all available options and considering individual needs is crucial for making informed decisions about lung cancer care. Patients should always consult with their primary care physician and oncologist to determine the best course of treatment.