11940, East Moriches, New York Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 11940, East Moriches, New York is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care Near ZIP Code 11940: A Detailed Hospital Review

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals near the ZIP code 11940 (Riverhead, NY), focusing on key factors relevant to prostate cancer care. The information includes data on CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, aiming to empower patients with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions.

**Proximity and Primary Considerations:**

The immediate area around Riverhead, NY, doesn't boast a dense concentration of major medical centers. Residents typically look towards larger hospitals in Suffolk County or even into Nassau County for specialized care. Factors such as proximity, insurance coverage, and physician preferences will heavily influence choices. This review highlights the most relevant options, acknowledging the potential need for travel.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals, providing a general indicator of quality. These ratings are based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

**Stony Brook University Hospital:** Located approximately 30 miles west of Riverhead, Stony Brook University Hospital is a major academic medical center and a significant option for residents in the 11940 area. As of the latest available data, Stony Brook typically holds a respectable CMS star rating. This rating reflects its performance across a wide range of medical services, including those relevant to oncology. Stony Brook's Cancer Center offers comprehensive services, including advanced diagnostics, surgical options, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. They are known for their research focus and access to clinical trials, which can be particularly beneficial for prostate cancer patients.

**North Shore University Hospital (Manhasset):** Situated further west in Nassau County, North Shore University Hospital is part of Northwell Health, a large integrated healthcare system. North Shore is another flagship hospital, often receiving high CMS star ratings. Its proximity to Riverhead is a factor, but it is further away than Stony Brook. North Shore's dedicated cancer institute offers a multidisciplinary approach to prostate cancer care, with specialists in urology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology working collaboratively. They have a reputation for advanced surgical techniques, including robotic-assisted prostatectomy.

**Other Hospitals and Considerations:**

While the above are the primary flagship hospitals, other facilities within a reasonable driving distance may offer specialized services or be better suited to individual patient needs.

**Peconic Bay Medical Center (Riverhead):** Located within the 11940 ZIP code, Peconic Bay Medical Center (PBMC) is a community hospital that offers cancer care services. While it may not have the same level of specialization or research focus as the larger academic centers, PBMC can provide a convenient option for some patients. They offer diagnostic services, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Patients may need to be referred to other hospitals for complex surgical procedures.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

ER wait times can be a crucial consideration, especially during a cancer diagnosis. While not directly related to prostate cancer treatment, long wait times can be stressful and impact overall patient experience.

**Stony Brook University Hospital:** As a major trauma center, Stony Brook can experience longer ER wait times, particularly during peak hours. Patients should check the hospital's website or use online tools to get real-time estimates before visiting.

**North Shore University Hospital:** North Shore, as a large hospital, also experiences varying ER wait times. Checking their website or using online resources can help patients anticipate potential delays.

**Peconic Bay Medical Center:** As a smaller community hospital, PBMC may have shorter ER wait times than the larger hospitals. However, this can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients.

**Specialty Centers and Prostate Cancer Expertise:**

The presence of specialized centers dedicated to cancer care is a key indicator of a hospital's commitment to prostate cancer treatment.

**Stony Brook Cancer Center:** Stony Brook's Cancer Center offers a comprehensive range of services, including advanced imaging, surgical options (including robotic surgery), radiation therapy (including brachytherapy), and medical oncology. They have a dedicated team of urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists specializing in prostate cancer.

**North Shore Cancer Institute:** North Shore's cancer institute provides a multidisciplinary approach, with a focus on advanced surgical techniques, including robotic-assisted prostatectomy. They also offer radiation therapy and medical oncology services.

**Peconic Bay Medical Center:** PBMC offers cancer care services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. However, patients may need to be referred to other hospitals for complex surgical procedures.

**Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring:**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important in healthcare, offering convenience and accessibility.

**Stony Brook University Hospital:** Stony Brook has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote patient monitoring programs. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live a distance from the hospital.

**North Shore University Hospital:** Northwell Health, as a large healthcare system, has invested heavily in telehealth. They offer a range of virtual services, including consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring.

**Peconic Bay Medical Center:** PBMC may offer some telehealth services, but the scope may be more limited than the larger hospitals. Patients should inquire about available virtual options.

**Specific Prostate Cancer Treatment Options:**

The availability of various treatment options is crucial. Hospitals should offer a range of surgical, radiation, and medical oncology approaches.

**Surgical Options:** Both Stony Brook and North Shore offer robotic-assisted prostatectomy, a minimally invasive surgical technique that can lead to faster recovery times. PBMC may refer patients to other hospitals for surgical procedures.

**Radiation Therapy:** Both Stony Brook and North Shore offer advanced radiation therapy techniques, including external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy (internal radiation). PBMC offers radiation therapy services.

**Medical Oncology:** All three hospitals have medical oncology departments that provide chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and other systemic treatments for prostate cancer.

**Clinical Trials:** Both Stony Brook and North Shore are involved in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies.

**Patient Experience and Support Services:**

Beyond medical expertise, patient experience is vital. Hospitals should offer comprehensive support services.

**Stony Brook:** Offers patient navigators, support groups, and resources for financial assistance.

**North Shore:** Provides patient navigators, support groups, and access to social workers.

**Peconic Bay Medical Center:** Offers patient support services, including support groups and resources.

**Physician Selection and Consultation:**

Choosing the right physician is paramount. Patients should research physicians' credentials, experience, and areas of specialization. Consulting with multiple specialists is often recommended to get a comprehensive understanding of treatment options.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations:**

Insurance coverage and financial considerations are critical. Patients should verify their insurance coverage with the hospital and understand the potential costs of treatment.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer care near the 11940 ZIP code involves careful consideration of various factors. Stony Brook University Hospital and North Shore University Hospital are the flagship options, offering comprehensive cancer centers, advanced treatments, and research opportunities. Peconic Bay Medical Center provides a local option for certain services. Patients should research their options, consider their individual needs, and consult with healthcare professionals to make informed decisions. The information provided in this review is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.