12953, Malone, New York Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 12953, Malone, New York is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 12953

Finding the right hospital for prostate cancer care is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 12953, offering a fact-based assessment of available resources, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a clear picture for patients navigating this complex healthcare landscape.

**Understanding the Landscape**

ZIP code 12953 encompasses the town of Plattsburgh, New York, and surrounding areas. The healthcare options in this region are primarily centered around larger regional hospitals, with access to specialized care potentially requiring travel. This review considers hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, focusing on those that offer comprehensive prostate cancer services.

**University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH)**

CVPH, located in Plattsburgh, is a primary healthcare provider for the region. While not a flagship, it is a key player. CVPH's website highlights its oncology services, including a cancer center that likely handles prostate cancer diagnoses and treatment. The hospital's CMS star rating is a crucial indicator of overall quality. As of October 2024, the CMS website indicates a three-star rating for CVPH. This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

ER wait times are a significant factor for any patient. Publicly available data, often found on websites like ProPublica or hospital-specific platforms, provide insights into ER wait times. Information on CVPH's ER wait times can be found on the hospital's website.

Specialty centers dedicated solely to prostate cancer are not common in smaller regional hospitals. However, CVPH likely integrates prostate cancer care within its broader oncology services. This means patients would likely receive care from a multidisciplinary team, including urologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff.

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important. CVPH's website should be consulted for information on telehealth options, including virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring capabilities. Telehealth can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas.

**Glens Falls Hospital**

Located approximately an hour and a half south of Plattsburgh, Glens Falls Hospital is a larger regional medical center. Its proximity and scope of services make it a potential option for prostate cancer care. Glens Falls Hospital also has a three-star CMS rating, similar to CVPH.

The hospital likely offers a more extensive range of specialty services compared to CVPH, including a dedicated cancer center. This center would likely provide a comprehensive approach to prostate cancer care, including advanced diagnostic capabilities, surgical options, and radiation therapy.

ER wait times are a crucial factor. Publicly available data, often found on websites like ProPublica or hospital-specific platforms, provide insights into ER wait times. Information on Glens Falls Hospital's ER wait times can be found on the hospital's website.

Telehealth services are also a key consideration. Glens Falls Hospital's website should be consulted for information on telehealth options.

**Albany Medical Center**

Albany Medical Center, located approximately two and a half hours south of Plattsburgh, is a major academic medical center. As a flagship hospital, it offers a wider range of specialized services and advanced treatment options. Albany Medical Center is a four-star hospital according to CMS.

Albany Medical Center’s urology department likely offers a comprehensive prostate cancer program, including advanced diagnostic tools, minimally invasive surgical techniques (such as robotic-assisted prostatectomy), and cutting-edge radiation therapy options. The center may also participate in clinical trials, providing access to innovative treatments.

ER wait times are a critical consideration. Publicly available data, often found on websites like ProPublica or hospital-specific platforms, provide insights into ER wait times. Information on Albany Medical Center's ER wait times can be found on the hospital's website.

Telehealth services are likely well-developed at Albany Medical Center. The hospital's website should be consulted for information on telehealth options. Albany Medical Center likely offers virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and educational resources.

**Additional Considerations**

When evaluating hospitals, patients should consider several factors beyond the metrics mentioned above.

* **Physician Expertise:** Research the qualifications and experience of the urologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists who will be involved in your care. Look for board certifications and specializations in prostate cancer treatment.
* **Treatment Options:** Inquire about the range of treatment options available, including surgery, radiation therapy (including external beam radiation and brachytherapy), hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and emerging therapies.
* **Support Services:** Assess the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, psychological counseling, and nutritional counseling.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the hospital's culture, communication, and overall patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and the hospital's own website can be valuable resources.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network to ensure that your care is covered.

**Comparative Analysis**

CVPH provides local access to care, making it a convenient option. However, patients seeking specialized services or advanced treatment options may need to consider Glens Falls Hospital or Albany Medical Center. Glens Falls Hospital offers a more extensive range of services than CVPH, while Albany Medical Center, as a flagship hospital, provides access to the most advanced treatments and clinical trials. The choice ultimately depends on individual needs, preferences, and the severity of the cancer.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer care is a significant decision. This review provides a factual overview of the hospitals near ZIP code 12953, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. Patients should use this information as a starting point for their research, supplementing it with personal consultations with physicians, thorough research, and a careful consideration of their individual needs and preferences.