14516, North Rose, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14516, North Rose, New York is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Finger Lakes: A Review for Residents Near 14516

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Finding the best care, close to home, is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals serving residents near the 14516 ZIP code (Canandaigua, NY), examining their lung cancer treatment capabilities, accessibility, and overall quality of care. We’ll delve into key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth availability to provide a comprehensive picture.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Considerations**

When assessing lung cancer care, several factors are crucial. These include the availability of experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Access to advanced diagnostic tools like PET/CT scans and bronchoscopy is essential. The presence of multidisciplinary tumor boards, where specialists collaborate on treatment plans, signifies a commitment to comprehensive care. Furthermore, hospitals with robust support services, such as oncology nurses, social workers, and patient navigators, can significantly improve the patient experience.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Comparative Analysis**

The immediate area around Canandaigua offers a range of healthcare options. Let's examine the key players.

**Strong Memorial Hospital (Rochester, NY):** Located approximately 30 miles northwest of Canandaigua, Strong Memorial Hospital is a major tertiary care center and the flagship hospital of the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC). Strong Memorial consistently ranks highly in national surveys and boasts a strong reputation for cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Strong Memorial Hospital holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality based on patient experience, safety, readmission rates, and mortality.
* **Cancer Center:** The Wilmot Cancer Institute at Strong Memorial is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center. This designation signifies a commitment to research, clinical trials, and advanced cancer treatments. The Wilmot Cancer Institute has a dedicated lung cancer program with a multidisciplinary team.
* **Specialty Centers:** Strong Memorial houses specialized centers for thoracic surgery, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. They offer advanced treatment options, including minimally invasive surgical techniques, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times at Strong Memorial can vary. Data from the hospital's website and third-party sources suggest average wait times can fluctuate, so it's always wise to check current conditions.
* **Telehealth:** URMC has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations for oncology patients. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and consultations, reducing the need for travel.
* **Clinical Trials:** The Wilmot Cancer Institute actively participates in clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge therapies.

**Thompson Health (Canandaigua, NY):** Located directly within the 14516 ZIP code, Thompson Health offers a more local option.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Thompson Health has a 4-star rating from CMS.
* **Cancer Care:** Thompson Health provides cancer care through its Sands Cancer Center. While not an NCI-designated center, it offers a range of services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times at Thompson Health are typically shorter than at larger, tertiary care centers.
* **Telehealth:** Thompson Health offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations for cancer patients.
* **Lung Cancer Program:** Thompson Health has a lung cancer screening program, which is crucial for early detection. They also offer a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment, with specialists collaborating on patient care.

**Highland Hospital (Rochester, NY):** Another URMC affiliate, Highland Hospital is located in Rochester, approximately 35 miles from Canandaigua.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Highland Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Cancer Care:** Highland Hospital provides cancer care through its Lipson Cancer Institute.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times at Highland Hospital are generally moderate.
* **Telehealth:** Highland Hospital offers telehealth services.
* **Lung Cancer Program:** Highland Hospital offers a lung cancer screening program and a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment.

**Comparing the Options: Key Takeaways**

Strong Memorial Hospital, with its NCI-designated cancer center and access to advanced therapies and clinical trials, is a strong contender for complex lung cancer cases. However, the distance and potentially longer ER wait times might be a drawback for some patients.

Thompson Health offers a more convenient, local option with a strong focus on community-based care. Its lung cancer screening program is particularly valuable for early detection.

Highland Hospital, as another URMC affiliate, provides access to quality care and may be a good option for some patients, though its CMS star rating is slightly lower than the other two.

**Beyond the Flagships: Other Considerations**

While the flagship hospitals are key, other factors should be considered.

* **Physician Experience:** Research the experience and expertise of the pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists at each hospital. Look for specialists with specific training and experience in lung cancer treatment.
* **Support Services:** Inquire about the availability of support services, such as oncology nurses, social workers, patient navigators, and support groups. These services can play a crucial role in managing the emotional and practical challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the experiences of other lung cancer patients at each hospital. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can provide valuable information.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network. Understand your out-of-pocket costs for treatment.
* **Accessibility:** Consider the ease of access to the hospital, including parking, public transportation, and accommodations for patients with mobility limitations.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in cancer care. It offers several benefits, including:

* **Convenience:** Virtual consultations can save time and travel.
* **Accessibility:** Telehealth can make it easier for patients in rural areas to access specialists.
* **Continuity of Care:** Telehealth can facilitate follow-up appointments and medication management.

When considering telehealth options, inquire about the types of services offered, the technology used, and the security of patient data.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Residents near the 14516 ZIP code have several excellent options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Strong Memorial Hospital, with its NCI-designated cancer center, offers access to advanced therapies and clinical trials. Thompson Health provides a convenient, local option with a strong focus on community-based care. Highland Hospital provides another option, also within the URMC network.

By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth availability, and physician experience, residents can make an informed decision that best meets their individual needs. It is essential to consult with your primary care physician and oncologist to discuss your specific case and determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Remember to advocate for yourself and ask questions to ensure you receive the best possible care.