Diane, I grew up near Ithaca. I needed some orthopedic surgery when I was young and feel I got great treatment. My father had cancer and I feel he had really awful treatment. I have reason to believe he might have lived many more years if he had used a different doctor and hospital.
What I'm trying to say is that there may be great medicine available to you locally or it may suck. If you don't feel comfortable with what you are getting head downstate to the best expertise available to you. Don't let your locations determine the quality of your care.
Best wishes!