23460, Virginia Beach, Virginia Arthritis Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Arthritis Score in 23460, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Arthritis Care in the 23460: A Deep Dive into Local Hospital Options

Finding the right hospital for arthritis care can be a daunting task. This review focuses on hospitals near the 23460 ZIP code (Virginia Beach, VA), analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and key metrics to help you make an informed decision. We'll delve into CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and the availability of telehealth services, providing a comprehensive overview of the local landscape.

**Sentara Healthcare: A Dominant Force**

Sentara Healthcare is a major player in the region, with several hospitals within reasonable proximity to 23460. Their network offers a range of services, making them a significant consideration for arthritis patients.

**Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital:** This hospital, located directly within Virginia Beach, is a primary contender. It boasts a four-star CMS rating, indicating a generally good performance across various quality measures. However, it's crucial to remember that these ratings are a snapshot in time and don't always capture the nuances of individual specialties. The hospital has a dedicated orthopedic program, which is a key factor for arthritis patients. While specific data on arthritis-related outcomes isn't readily available in a standardized format, inquiring directly with the hospital about their joint replacement volume and patient satisfaction scores related to arthritis care is advisable. ER wait times at Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital can fluctuate. Checking the hospital's website or using online tools that provide real-time wait time updates is recommended, especially during peak hours.

**Sentara Princess Anne Hospital:** Also in Virginia Beach, Sentara Princess Anne Hospital is another option. It also holds a four-star CMS rating. While it may not be as large as Virginia Beach General, it still offers a comprehensive range of services, including orthopedic care. Similar to Virginia Beach General, investigating their joint replacement program and patient satisfaction scores is recommended for a comprehensive understanding of their arthritis care capabilities. ER wait times at Princess Anne Hospital are also variable, and checking real-time updates before heading to the ER is crucial.

**Sentara Leigh Hospital:** Located in Norfolk, Sentara Leigh Hospital is another Sentara facility to consider. While further from the 23460 area, it offers specialized services, including an orthopedic program. Check their website for information on their orthopedic services, including joint replacement and arthritis treatment options.

**Specialized Centers Within Sentara:** Sentara Healthcare often houses specialized centers within its hospitals. Researching the specific centers within each hospital, such as those focused on joint replacement or rheumatology, can be beneficial. Inquiring about the specialists affiliated with these centers and their experience with arthritis management is a key step in the decision-making process.

**Telehealth Integration at Sentara:** Sentara has been actively expanding its telehealth offerings. Telehealth can be particularly useful for arthritis patients, allowing for follow-up appointments, medication management, and physical therapy consultations from the comfort of their homes. Checking the Sentara website for specific telehealth services related to rheumatology and orthopedics is recommended. Inquire about the availability of virtual physical therapy sessions, which can be extremely helpful for managing arthritis symptoms.

**Riverside Health System: A Regional Presence**

Riverside Health System also operates in the area, offering another option for arthritis patients.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center:** Located in Newport News, Riverside Regional Medical Center is a major regional hospital. While further from the 23460 ZIP code, it may be a viable option for some patients. The hospital has an orthopedic program and a rheumatology department. Checking the hospital's website for information on their orthopedic and rheumatology services, including joint replacement and arthritis treatment options is recommended. Riverside Regional Medical Center's CMS star rating is a factor to consider when evaluating the hospital. ER wait times are a key consideration, and checking the hospital's website or using online resources for real-time updates is recommended.

**Telehealth at Riverside:** Riverside Health System has also invested in telehealth services. Investigate their telehealth offerings related to rheumatology and orthopedics, including virtual consultations with specialists and remote monitoring programs.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Hospitals and Outpatient Clinics**

Beyond the major hospital systems, smaller hospitals and outpatient clinics can offer valuable services.

**Chesapeake Regional Healthcare:** While not directly in the 23460 area, Chesapeake Regional Healthcare is a nearby option. Investigate their orthopedic services and rheumatology offerings. Inquire about their joint replacement program and patient satisfaction scores related to arthritis care.

**Outpatient Clinics:** Many outpatient clinics specialize in orthopedic care and rheumatology. These clinics can provide specialized treatments, physical therapy, and medication management. Researching local clinics and their affiliations with hospitals is recommended. Consider factors like the clinic's hours, the availability of physical therapy, and the insurance plans they accept.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a significant factor, especially for patients experiencing acute arthritis flares. While wait times fluctuate, researching average wait times for each hospital is crucial. Many hospitals provide real-time wait time updates on their websites or through mobile apps. These updates can help you choose the ER with the shortest wait time, minimizing your discomfort and ensuring prompt medical attention.

**Specialty Centers: The Key to Specialized Care**

Specialty centers dedicated to orthopedics and rheumatology can provide specialized care for arthritis patients. Researching the specific centers within each hospital system is essential. Inquire about the specialists affiliated with these centers, their experience with arthritis management, and the types of treatments they offer. Consider factors like the availability of advanced imaging, specialized physical therapy, and access to clinical trials.

**Telehealth: Convenience and Accessibility**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like arthritis. Telehealth offers convenient access to specialists, medication management, and physical therapy sessions. Research the telehealth offerings of each hospital system, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and the availability of virtual physical therapy.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Starting Point**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. However, these ratings are not a perfect measure of care. They don't always capture the nuances of individual specialties. Use the CMS ratings as a starting point, but supplement them with further research, including patient reviews, information about the hospital's orthopedic and rheumatology programs, and the experience of the specialists.

**Patient Reviews: Insights from Experience**

Patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of care. Read reviews on websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews. Pay attention to reviews that specifically mention arthritis care, joint replacement, and the experiences patients have had with the specialists.

**Insurance Coverage: A Practical Consideration**

Verify that the hospital and the specialists you choose are in your insurance network. Contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage for arthritis-related services, including consultations, imaging, physical therapy, and medications.

**Making the Right Choice: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the right hospital for arthritis care is a personal decision. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. Research the hospitals and specialists in your area, paying attention to their orthopedic and rheumatology programs, ER wait times, telehealth offerings, and patient reviews. By taking a proactive approach, you can find the hospital that best meets your needs and provides the best possible care for your arthritis. Remember to contact the hospitals directly to ask specific questions about their services and the experience of their specialists.