14619, Rochester, New York Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 14619, Rochester, New York is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care: A Look at Hospitals Near Rochester, NY (ZIP Code 14619)

Rochester, New York, and its surrounding areas, including the 14619 ZIP code, offer a diverse range of healthcare options for men facing a prostate cancer diagnosis. Navigating this landscape requires understanding the strengths and specializations of each facility. This review focuses on the key hospitals in the region, examining their prostate cancer care capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings.

**Strongholds of Care: University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC)**

The University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), the flagship hospital in the region, stands as a major player in prostate cancer treatment. URMC’s James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center, a significant distinction highlighting its commitment to research, advanced treatments, and comprehensive care. This designation means patients benefit from access to cutting-edge clinical trials and the latest advancements in prostate cancer therapy.

URMC's Strong Memorial Hospital, the primary hospital within the URMC system, holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest possible rating, it reflects a commitment to quality and patient safety. However, CMS ratings are just one factor to consider.

URMC’s urology department boasts a team of highly specialized physicians, including urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists, all crucial for a multidisciplinary approach to prostate cancer. They offer a full spectrum of treatments, from minimally invasive robotic surgery using the da Vinci Surgical System to advanced radiation therapies like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and brachytherapy.

**ER Wait Times & Access at URMC:**

Emergency room wait times at Strong Memorial Hospital can fluctuate. Data indicates average wait times, which can be found on the hospital's website or through platforms like ProPublica, are often longer than some other local facilities. However, the ER is equipped to handle complex cases and offers 24/7 access to specialized medical professionals.

**Telehealth at URMC:**

URMC has significantly expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes virtual consultations for prostate cancer patients, allowing for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even some pre-operative consultations from the comfort of home. Telehealth services are particularly valuable for patients living in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.

**Rochester General Hospital: A Community Focus**

Rochester General Hospital (RGH), part of the Rochester Regional Health system, provides another important option for prostate cancer care within the 14619 area. RGH is known for its strong community focus and offers a comprehensive range of services.

RGH does not have a CMS star rating, but it still offers a solid level of care. The hospital's urology department provides diagnostic services, surgical interventions, and radiation therapy options. While RGH may not have the same level of research focus as URMC, it excels in providing accessible and patient-centered care.

**ER Wait Times & Access at RGH:**

ER wait times at RGH are generally shorter than those at Strong Memorial Hospital. This can be a significant factor for patients seeking immediate medical attention. Real-time wait time information is often available on the Rochester Regional Health website.

**Telehealth at RGH:**

Rochester Regional Health has also invested in telehealth capabilities. RGH offers virtual consultations for prostate cancer patients, as well as remote monitoring programs for patients undergoing treatment.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Facilities & Outpatient Centers**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, the 14619 area is served by several smaller hospitals, outpatient centers, and specialized clinics. These facilities may offer specific services or cater to particular patient needs.

**Highland Hospital:**

Highland Hospital, also part of the URMC system, is a smaller community hospital with a focus on specialized care. It may offer some urology services, but patients requiring advanced prostate cancer treatments are often referred to Strong Memorial Hospital.

**Outpatient Centers & Clinics:**

Several outpatient centers and clinics in the area provide diagnostic services, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. These facilities often offer a more convenient and less intimidating environment for patients.

**Important Factors in Choosing a Hospital:**

Choosing the right hospital for prostate cancer treatment is a personal decision. Several factors should be considered:

* **Expertise and Specialization:** Look for hospitals with experienced urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists specializing in prostate cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers a full range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy.
* **Access to Clinical Trials:** If you are interested in participating in clinical trials, choose a hospital with a strong research program, like URMC.
* **Patient Experience:** Read online reviews and talk to other patients to get a sense of the hospital's patient-centered care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Location and Convenience:** Consider the hospital's location, parking, and accessibility.
* **ER Wait Times:** If you anticipate needing emergency care, factor in ER wait times.
* **Telehealth Availability:** If you prefer virtual appointments, confirm the hospital's telehealth capabilities.

**Robotic Surgery:**

Robotic-assisted surgery, particularly using the da Vinci Surgical System, has become a standard of care for prostatectomy (surgical removal of the prostate). Both URMC and RGH offer robotic surgery, which can result in less pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times for some patients.

**Radiation Therapy:**

Advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as IMRT and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), are used to precisely target the prostate cancer while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Both URMC and RGH offer these advanced radiation therapy options.

**Hormone Therapy and Chemotherapy:**

Medical oncologists at both URMC and RGH provide hormone therapy and chemotherapy for patients with advanced or metastatic prostate cancer. These treatments are often used in combination with other therapies.

**Conclusion:**

The 14619 area provides robust options for prostate cancer care. URMC, with its NCI designation and access to cutting-edge research, stands as a leader in the region. Rochester General Hospital offers a strong community-focused alternative. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when selecting a hospital, taking into account factors like physician expertise, treatment options, patient experience, and convenience. Consulting with a primary care physician and a urologist is crucial in navigating this process and making an informed decision.