13646, Hammond, New York Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 13646, Hammond, New York is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care Near Massena, NY (ZIP Code 13646): A Detailed Review

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires access to high-quality medical care. For residents of Massena, New York (ZIP code 13646), this review provides a detailed look at the available options, focusing on hospital quality, specialty centers, and access to care, including telehealth. The information is sourced from publicly available data, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reliable sources.

**Proximity and Primary Care Considerations**

Massena, located in St. Lawrence County, is somewhat geographically isolated. This impacts the availability of immediate, specialized care. The closest hospitals offering comprehensive cancer services are a drive away, making the selection of a primary care physician (PCP) crucial for early detection and initial guidance. Patients should prioritize PCPs affiliated with hospitals or healthcare networks that offer robust cancer programs.

**Key Hospitals and Their Prostate Cancer Services**

The primary hospitals serving the region, while not directly within Massena, are the central focus for prostate cancer treatment. Their offerings and associated factors are detailed below:

**1. Canton-Potsdam Hospital (Potsdam, NY):**

Canton-Potsdam Hospital is a key regional provider. It is part of St. Lawrence Health System. While it may not be a flagship cancer center, it offers essential services. The hospital's website provides information on cancer screening programs and general oncology services. The availability of a urologist is critical for prostate cancer diagnosis and management. Patients should inquire about the hospital's affiliation with oncologists and radiation oncologists.

**CMS Star Rating and ER Wait Times:**

Canton-Potsdam Hospital's CMS star rating is a key indicator of overall hospital quality. Publicly available data from CMS is the best source for this information. Additionally, information on ER wait times is publicly available. These wait times can vary, so checking the latest data is essential. The hospital's website or third-party websites that track hospital performance may provide this data.

**Telehealth and Access to Specialists:**

Telehealth services are increasingly important for rural communities. Canton-Potsdam Hospital may offer telehealth consultations with specialists, potentially including urologists and oncologists. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth appointments, particularly for follow-up care and consultations.

**2. Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center (Ogdensburg, NY):**

Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center, also part of St. Lawrence Health System, is another option for residents near Massena. It offers a range of medical services. Patients should investigate the hospital's cancer care offerings, including access to a urologist and medical oncologists.

**CMS Star Rating and ER Wait Times:**

Like Canton-Potsdam, Claxton-Hepburn's CMS star rating is a crucial factor. Publicly available data from CMS is the best source for this information. ER wait times are another important consideration. The hospital's website or third-party websites that track hospital performance may provide this data.

**Telehealth and Access to Specialists:**

Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center’s telehealth capabilities are also relevant. Inquire about telehealth consultations with specialists, particularly for follow-up care and consultations.

**3. Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, NY):**

Samaritan Medical Center, located in Watertown, NY, is a more distant but potentially more comprehensive option. It may offer a wider range of cancer services and specialized care.

**Specialty Centers and Cancer Care:**

Samaritan Medical Center should be investigated for its cancer center and the availability of specialized services, such as radiation oncology and surgical oncology. The hospital's website and patient resources should be reviewed for details on its cancer program, including the types of treatments offered, the experience of its medical staff, and any accreditations it holds.

**CMS Star Rating and ER Wait Times:**

Samaritan Medical Center's CMS star rating should be assessed. Publicly available data from CMS is the best source for this information. ER wait times are another important consideration. The hospital's website or third-party websites that track hospital performance may provide this data.

**Telehealth and Access to Specialists:**

The hospital's telehealth offerings are also relevant. Inquire about telehealth consultations with specialists, particularly for follow-up care and consultations.

**4. University Hospitals and Academic Medical Centers (Distant Options):**

While not immediately local, exploring options at larger university hospitals is essential. These institutions often have leading-edge cancer centers and specialized prostate cancer programs.

**Upstate Medical University (Syracuse, NY):**

Upstate Medical University is a major academic medical center and cancer treatment facility. It is further away, but it may offer advanced treatments and access to clinical trials. Patients should investigate the hospital's urology and oncology departments for prostate cancer expertise.

**Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center (Buffalo, NY):**

Roswell Park is a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center, offering a high level of specialized care. It is a more significant travel commitment but may be considered for complex cases or access to cutting-edge therapies.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

Beyond the specific services offered, several factors should influence the choice of a hospital for prostate cancer treatment:

* **Physician Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the urologist, oncologist, and radiation oncologist are paramount. Research the physicians' backgrounds, training, and experience in treating prostate cancer. Look for board certifications and any specializations.
* **Treatment Options:** Evaluate the range of treatment options available, including surgery (robotic-assisted and open), radiation therapy (external beam, brachytherapy), hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and emerging therapies.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Assess the availability of advanced technologies, such as robotic surgical systems, advanced imaging equipment (MRI, PET scans), and sophisticated radiation therapy delivery systems.
* **Support Services:** Consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and psychological counseling.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and physicians are in-network with your insurance plan.
* **Patient Reviews and Outcomes:** Research patient reviews and hospital outcomes data (if available) to get insights into patient experiences and treatment results.
* **Travel Distance and Accessibility:** Consider the distance to the hospital and the ease of travel, especially for frequent appointments and follow-up care.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by organizations like the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, which indicates a commitment to quality cancer care.

**Telehealth's Role in Prostate Cancer Care**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in prostate cancer care, especially for patients in rural areas. Telehealth can be used for:

* **Initial Consultations:** Virtual consultations with urologists and oncologists can provide initial assessments and treatment recommendations.
* **Follow-up Appointments:** Telehealth is ideal for routine follow-up appointments after treatment, allowing patients to receive care from the comfort of their homes.
* **Medication Management:** Telehealth can be used to manage medications and address any side effects.
* **Support Services:** Telehealth can provide access to support groups, counseling, and educational resources.

**Telehealth Statistics:**

The utilization of telehealth services has increased significantly in recent years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The specific telehealth statistics for each hospital may vary. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services and the types of appointments offered.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for prostate cancer treatment is a critical decision. For residents of Massena, NY (ZIP code 13646), the available options require careful consideration of factors like proximity, hospital quality, physician expertise, and access to telehealth services. Canton-Potsdam Hospital and Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center are the closest options, while Samaritan Medical Center and the larger university hospitals in Syracuse and Buffalo offer more comprehensive care. Patients should conduct thorough research, consult with their primary care physicians, and discuss their individual needs and preferences with healthcare providers to make the best decision for their care.