14529, Perkinsville, New York Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14529, Perkinsville, New York is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP Code 14529): A Comprehensive Review**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Choosing the right hospital for treatment is a critical decision. This review provides a detailed look at the hospitals offering lung cancer care near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP Code 14529), focusing on key factors like quality of care, accessibility, and specialized services. The information is designed to help patients and their families make informed choices.

**Proximity and Primary Hospital Options**

The immediate vicinity of Canandaigua, NY, offers several hospital options. The closest major hospitals with comprehensive cancer care are in Rochester, approximately an hour's drive away. These facilities are the primary focus of this review. Smaller community hospitals closer to Canandaigua may offer initial diagnostic services and some supportive care, but typically refer complex cases to the larger Rochester hospitals.

**Flagship Hospitals: Strong Performers and CMS Star Ratings**

The University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) and Rochester General Hospital (part of Rochester Regional Health) are the two primary flagship hospitals serving the region. Both offer comprehensive cancer services, including lung cancer treatment.

* **Strong Memorial Hospital (URMC):** Strong Memorial Hospital, the flagship hospital of URMC, is a large, tertiary care center. As of the latest publicly available data, Strong Memorial Hospital holds a **4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects overall hospital quality, based on measures like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. It is important to note that CMS star ratings are just one indicator of quality and should be considered alongside other factors. Strong Memorial Hospital is known for its advanced cancer research and treatment programs.

* **Rochester General Hospital (Rochester Regional Health):** Rochester General Hospital is another major healthcare provider in the area. It is part of the Rochester Regional Health system, which includes several other hospitals and outpatient facilities. Rochester General Hospital's CMS star rating fluctuates, but it generally performs well on quality metrics. Rochester General Hospital has a robust cancer program, including lung cancer services.

**Key Considerations: Specialty Centers and Expertise**

Beyond overall hospital ratings, specific expertise in lung cancer treatment is crucial. Both Strong Memorial Hospital and Rochester General Hospital have dedicated cancer centers.

* **URMC's Wilmot Cancer Institute:** The Wilmot Cancer Institute at URMC is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center. This designation signifies a commitment to cutting-edge research, comprehensive cancer care, and access to clinical trials. The Wilmot Cancer Institute has a multidisciplinary team of specialists dedicated to lung cancer treatment, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, and supportive care providers. Their lung cancer program is known for its focus on personalized medicine and advanced treatment options, including targeted therapies and immunotherapy.

* **Rochester Regional Health's Lipson Cancer Institute:** The Lipson Cancer Institute at Rochester General Hospital offers a comprehensive range of lung cancer services. The Institute features a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists from various disciplines collaborating to develop individualized treatment plans. They also have a strong focus on patient support services, including counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs.

**Diagnostic Capabilities and Treatment Modalities**

Effective lung cancer treatment begins with accurate diagnosis. Both hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools.

* **Advanced Imaging:** Both hospitals utilize advanced imaging technologies, including computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET) scans, and bronchoscopy, to diagnose and stage lung cancer.
* **Surgical Options:** Thoracic surgeons at both hospitals perform a range of surgical procedures, including lobectomy (removal of a lobe of the lung), pneumonectomy (removal of an entire lung), and minimally invasive techniques like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).
* **Radiation Therapy:** Both hospitals offer advanced radiation therapy techniques, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), to target tumors with precision while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
* **Medical Oncology:** Medical oncologists at both hospitals provide chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. They work closely with patients to develop individualized treatment plans based on the stage and type of lung cancer, as well as the patient's overall health.

**Accessibility: ER Wait Times and Telehealth**

Accessibility is a crucial factor, especially during a health crisis.

* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and overall hospital volume. Publicly available data on ER wait times is often updated, but it is always best to check the hospitals' websites or call ahead for the most current information. Both Strong Memorial Hospital and Rochester General Hospital have relatively high ER volumes.

* **Telehealth Services:** Telehealth has become increasingly important for healthcare delivery. Both hospitals offer telehealth services for certain appointments, including follow-up visits, medication management, and consultations. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues. The availability and specific types of telehealth services offered may vary. Check the hospitals' websites or contact the oncology departments for details.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Beyond medical expertise, patient experience and support services are critical.

* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores are a key indicator of the quality of care. Both hospitals participate in patient satisfaction surveys, such as the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey. These surveys provide insights into patients' experiences with communication, responsiveness of staff, pain management, and overall hospital environment. The results of these surveys are publicly available and can be found on the CMS Hospital Compare website.

* **Support Services:** Both hospitals offer a range of support services for lung cancer patients and their families, including:
* **Patient Navigators:** Patient navigators assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support.
* **Social Workers:** Social workers provide counseling, connect patients with resources, and help address practical needs.
* **Support Groups:** Support groups offer a safe space for patients to share their experiences, receive emotional support, and connect with others facing similar challenges.
* **Nutrition Counseling:** Registered dietitians provide guidance on nutrition and dietary needs during treatment.
* **Palliative Care:** Palliative care specialists focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

Access to clinical trials is a significant advantage for lung cancer patients.

* **Clinical Trial Availability:** The Wilmot Cancer Institute at URMC, being an NCI-designated cancer center, has a robust clinical trials program, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities. Rochester General Hospital also participates in clinical trials, although the scope may be somewhat smaller.

**Considerations for Patients Near Canandaigua**

Patients residing in or near Canandaigua (ZIP Code 14529) should consider the following:

* **Travel Distance:** The primary hospitals are approximately an hour's drive from Canandaigua. This travel time should be factored into appointments, treatments, and follow-up care.
* **Local Support:** While the major hospitals are in Rochester, Canandaigua and the surrounding areas may have local resources, such as support groups, community health centers, and primary care physicians, that can provide additional support.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify insurance coverage for both hospitals and specific services.

**Making the Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Patients should consider the following factors:

* **Medical Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the medical team, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists.
* **Treatment Options:** The availability of advanced treatment options, including targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and clinical trials.
* **Patient Experience:** The hospital's patient satisfaction scores and the availability of support services.
* **Accessibility:** The distance to the hospital, ER wait times, and the availability of telehealth services.
* **Insurance Coverage:** The hospital's network participation and coverage for specific treatments.

**Conclusion**

Both Strong Memorial Hospital (URMC) and Rochester General Hospital offer comprehensive lung cancer care, with strong reputations and a wide range of services. The Wilmot Cancer Institute at URMC, with its NCI designation, provides a particularly strong focus on research and access to clinical trials. Patients near Canandaigua should carefully evaluate their individual needs and preferences, considering the factors outlined in this review, to make the most informed decision about their lung cancer treatment. It is always advisable to consult with a primary care physician or oncologist to discuss individual circumstances and receive personalized recommendations.