11738, Farmingville, New York Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 11738, Farmingville, New York is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near ZIP Code 11738**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment plan can feel overwhelming. Selecting the right hospital is a critical first step. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 11738 (Commack, NY) and provides a fact-rich overview of their prostate cancer care offerings, including their strengths, weaknesses, and key performance indicators. This analysis aims to empower patients with the information needed to make informed decisions.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The Long Island area, including Commack, offers a range of healthcare options. Proximity, however, isn't the only factor. Considerations must include the hospital's expertise in urology and oncology, its access to advanced technologies, and its overall patient outcomes. This review will examine these aspects, focusing on the most prominent hospitals in the vicinity.

**Northwell Health System: A Dominant Presence**

Northwell Health, a large integrated health system, has a significant presence in the region. Several of its hospitals are readily accessible from 11738 and are known for their comprehensive cancer care.

* **North Shore University Hospital (Manhasset):** This flagship hospital boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). It is a major referral center for complex urological and oncological cases. North Shore's Urology Department is well-regarded, offering advanced treatments like robotic-assisted prostatectomy and brachytherapy. The hospital's Cancer Institute provides a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists from urology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and other disciplines collaborating on patient care. ER wait times at North Shore University Hospital can vary, but it's advisable to check real-time data online before heading to the emergency room. The hospital has invested in telehealth, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be particularly beneficial for patients managing prostate cancer.
* **Huntington Hospital (Huntington):** Located closer to Commack, Huntington Hospital is another Northwell facility. While it may not have the same level of specialized cancer services as North Shore, it provides a solid foundation of urological care. The hospital offers robotic surgery and other minimally invasive procedures for prostate cancer. Huntington Hospital's cancer program is accredited by the American College of Surgeons, a marker of quality. ER wait times are typically shorter than at North Shore, but it's still recommended to check online resources. Telehealth services are also available at Huntington Hospital, allowing for convenient access to care.
* **Southside Hospital (Bay Shore):** Southside Hospital is another Northwell facility that is a bit further away, but still accessible. It provides urological services, including prostate cancer treatment. The hospital's cancer program is growing, with a focus on patient-centered care. ER wait times are variable; checking online resources is crucial. Telehealth options are available.

**Catholic Health Services: A Strong Alternative**

Catholic Health Services (CHS) operates several hospitals in the area, providing another option for prostate cancer care.

* **St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center (Roslyn):** Although primarily known for its cardiac care, St. Francis Hospital has a strong urology department. The hospital offers robotic surgery and other advanced treatments for prostate cancer. St. Francis has a reputation for its skilled surgeons and comprehensive cancer services. The hospital's ER wait times are often higher than other hospitals. Telehealth services are available.
* **Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center (West Islip):** Good Samaritan Hospital provides a range of urological services, including prostate cancer treatment. The hospital offers robotic surgery and other minimally invasive procedures. The cancer program is accredited by the American College of Surgeons. ER wait times vary; checking online resources is recommended. Telehealth options are available.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Technology**

Beyond the major hospital systems, several factors can influence a patient's choice.

* **Robotic Surgery:** The availability of robotic-assisted prostatectomy is a key consideration. This minimally invasive technique offers benefits like reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times. All the hospitals mentioned above offer this technology.
* **Radiation Oncology:** The availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), is essential. These technologies allow for precise targeting of the cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
* **Brachytherapy:** This form of radiation therapy involves placing radioactive seeds directly into the prostate gland. Some hospitals, such as North Shore University Hospital, offer brachytherapy.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in prostate cancer care. Patients should inquire about clinical trial opportunities at each hospital.

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Consideration**

ER wait times are a practical consideration, especially in emergency situations. Real-time data on ER wait times is often available on hospital websites and through third-party apps. This information can help patients choose the most efficient option for urgent care.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare. Virtual consultations and follow-up appointments can be particularly convenient for patients managing prostate cancer. This technology allows patients to connect with their doctors from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

**Patient Outcomes: The Ultimate Measure**

While this review provides information on various aspects of hospital care, the ultimate measure of quality is patient outcomes. Unfortunately, detailed, publicly available data on prostate cancer-specific outcomes (e.g., recurrence rates, survival rates) is often limited. Patients should ask their physicians about these metrics and research the hospitals' reputations.

**Making the Right Choice**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer treatment is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and the specific characteristics of each hospital. Factors to weigh include:

* **Proximity:** How far are you willing to travel for appointments and treatment?
* **Specialization:** Does the hospital have a dedicated urology and oncology department with expertise in prostate cancer?
* **Technology:** Does the hospital offer advanced technologies like robotic surgery and advanced radiation therapy?
* **Patient Experience:** What is the hospital's reputation for patient satisfaction and compassionate care?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital accept your insurance plan?

**Conclusion**

The hospitals near ZIP code 11738 offer a range of options for prostate cancer care. Northwell Health, Catholic Health Services, and other facilities provide comprehensive services, including advanced technologies and experienced specialists. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, patients can make informed decisions and choose the hospital that best meets their needs. It is always advisable to consult with a primary care physician or a urologist to discuss individual circumstances and receive personalized recommendations.