11714, Bethpage, New York Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 11714, Bethpage, New York is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 11714**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment plan is a complex journey. Choosing the right hospital is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 11714 (Commack, New York) to provide a fact-rich overview of their prostate cancer care capabilities. We'll examine factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options to help patients make informed decisions.

**Understanding the Landscape: Proximity and Considerations**

The immediate vicinity of 11714 offers a range of hospital options. Proximity is a crucial factor, but patients should also consider the hospital's expertise in urology, oncology, radiation therapy, and overall patient experience. This review will highlight key facilities, focusing on their strengths and weaknesses in prostate cancer care.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Deep Dive**

**Stony Brook University Hospital:** Located a short distance from 11714, Stony Brook University Hospital is a major player. It boasts a comprehensive cancer center, the Stony Brook Cancer Center, which is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center. This designation signifies a commitment to research, innovation, and advanced treatment options. Stony Brook's urology department offers a full spectrum of prostate cancer treatments, including robotic-assisted surgery (da Vinci system), radiation therapy (including brachytherapy), and medical oncology. The hospital's CMS star rating is a crucial factor. As of the latest available data, Stony Brook University Hospital has a CMS star rating of 4 stars. This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care, including patient safety, mortality rates, and patient experience. ER wait times are a concern. While specific real-time data fluctuates, patients should anticipate potential wait times, particularly during peak hours. Telehealth options are available, with the hospital expanding its virtual care offerings, including follow-up appointments and consultations.

**North Shore University Hospital (Manhasset):** While not directly in the 11714 ZIP code, North Shore University Hospital, part of Northwell Health, is a significant regional hospital. Its Blavatnik Family Chelsea Medical Center has a strong reputation for cancer care. North Shore's urology department offers advanced surgical techniques, including robotic prostatectomy. They have a robust radiation oncology department. North Shore's CMS star rating is 3 stars. This reflects a need for improvement in certain areas of patient care. ER wait times can vary, and patients should check current wait times on the hospital's website or through third-party apps before arrival. Telehealth services are available, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs.

**Catholic Health: Good Samaritan Hospital (West Islip):** Good Samaritan Hospital, part of Catholic Health, provides a local option for prostate cancer care. The hospital's cancer center offers surgical and radiation oncology services. Good Samaritan's CMS star rating is 3 stars. ER wait times are a factor, and patients should be prepared for potential delays. Telehealth options are expanding, with virtual appointments available for certain follow-up care.

**Other Hospitals to Consider:**

**Southside Hospital (Bay Shore):** Southside Hospital, also part of Northwell Health, is another option. It offers a cancer center with urology and radiation oncology services. Southside's CMS star rating is 3 stars. ER wait times should be considered. Telehealth services are available.

**Mather Hospital (Port Jefferson):** Mather Hospital offers urology and cancer care services. The hospital's CMS star rating is 3 stars. ER wait times can vary. Telehealth services are available.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: A Closer Look**

Beyond the general hospital offerings, patients should investigate specialized centers and programs. The Stony Brook Cancer Center's NCI designation is a significant advantage, providing access to cutting-edge research and clinical trials. North Shore University Hospital also has well-regarded oncology programs. Patients should inquire about specific programs, such as multidisciplinary tumor boards, which bring together specialists from various fields to develop personalized treatment plans.

**Robotic Surgery and Advanced Techniques:**

Robotic-assisted prostatectomy, using the da Vinci surgical system, has become a standard of care. Hospitals like Stony Brook and North Shore University Hospital are known for their expertise in this minimally invasive technique, which can lead to faster recovery times and reduced side effects. Patients should ask about the surgeon's experience and the hospital's surgical volume.

**Radiation Therapy Options:**

Radiation therapy is a crucial component of prostate cancer treatment. Hospitals offer various options, including external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy (internal radiation). Patients should inquire about the availability of advanced techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), which can precisely target the tumor while sparing healthy tissue.

**Medical Oncology and Systemic Therapies:**

Medical oncologists play a vital role in managing advanced prostate cancer. They administer systemic therapies, including chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and newer targeted therapies. Patients should assess the hospital's access to these therapies and the experience of the medical oncology team.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care: The Modern Approach**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Hospitals near 11714 are expanding their telehealth offerings. Patients should inquire about the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring programs, and access to their medical records online.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a significant consideration, especially during emergencies. Patients should check current wait times on hospital websites or through third-party apps before going to the ER. This can help manage expectations and potentially choose a hospital with shorter wait times.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Guide to Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings provide a valuable, though imperfect, indicator of hospital quality. Hospitals are rated on a scale of 1 to 5 stars, with 5 stars representing the highest quality. While these ratings should not be the sole factor in decision-making, they offer a general overview of a hospital's performance in areas like patient safety, mortality rates, and patient experience.

**Patient Experience and Support Services:**

Beyond medical expertise, patient experience is crucial. Patients should inquire about support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and access to mental health professionals. These resources can help patients navigate the emotional and practical challenges of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for prostate cancer care near 11714 requires careful consideration. Patients should evaluate factors like the hospital's expertise in urology and oncology, access to advanced treatments, CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth options. By conducting thorough research and consulting with their primary care physician and specialists, patients can make an informed decision and embark on their treatment journey with confidence. This review provides a foundation for that process. The information presented is current to the best of our knowledge. However, patients should always confirm the most up-to-date information directly with the hospitals.