23696, Seaford, Virginia Arthritis Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Arthritis Score in 23696, Seaford, Virginia is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Arthritis Care in the 23696: A Hospital Review

The search for quality arthritis care near ZIP code 23696, encompassing Yorktown, Virginia, requires a nuanced understanding of local hospital capabilities. This review delves into the key players, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. While this review provides information, it is not a substitute for medical advice. Patients should always consult with their physicians for personalized care plans.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center: A Peninsula Powerhouse**

Riverside Regional Medical Center (RRMC), located in Newport News, Virginia, stands as a major healthcare provider within the 23696 vicinity. RRMC is a flagship hospital within the Riverside Health System, a network known for its comprehensive services. It boasts a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), indicating a generally good level of quality and patient satisfaction. This rating reflects performance across various categories, including mortality, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, and timely and effective care.

RRMC houses a dedicated orthopedic and rheumatology department. While specific details on the rheumatology department’s size and staffing are not readily available in public data, it is safe to assume that the department provides a range of services, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of various forms of arthritis. The hospital's orthopedic department likely collaborates closely with rheumatologists to provide comprehensive care for patients with overlapping conditions.

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for any healthcare facility. RRMC’s ER wait times, while fluctuating, are generally in line with or slightly better than the national average. Patients can often expect to be seen by a provider within a reasonable timeframe, though specific wait times can vary depending on the day, time, and severity of the case. Publicly available data on average wait times can be found on websites such as Medicare.gov.

Riverside Health System has been actively expanding its telehealth capabilities. The system offers telehealth options for various specialties, including primary care and potentially some rheumatology follow-up appointments. This can be a significant advantage for patients, allowing them to access care remotely, reducing travel time and improving convenience. Specific details on rheumatology telehealth availability should be confirmed directly with Riverside.

**Sentara CarePlex Hospital: A Focused Approach**

Sentara CarePlex Hospital, located in Hampton, Virginia, is another significant healthcare provider within the 23696 area. Sentara CarePlex has a three-star CMS rating. This rating, while lower than RRMC's, still indicates an acceptable level of care, and the hospital is likely to provide a high standard of care.

Sentara CarePlex has a strong emphasis on orthopedic services, which are relevant to arthritis care. The hospital likely has a team of orthopedic surgeons who can address the surgical needs of arthritis patients, such as joint replacements. Sentara CarePlex, like other hospitals, will have a network of rheumatologists who can diagnose and treat arthritis patients.

Emergency room wait times at Sentara CarePlex are an important consideration. While specific real-time data can vary, Sentara CarePlex generally strives to maintain efficient ER operations. Checking real-time wait times on websites like Google or other hospital-specific platforms is a good idea before visiting the ER.

Sentara Health, the parent organization of Sentara CarePlex, has been investing in telehealth services. Telehealth options, including virtual visits, are increasingly available across various specialties. Patients should check directly with Sentara CarePlex to determine the availability of rheumatology-related telehealth services.

**Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital: A Community Presence**

Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital, situated in Newport News, Virginia, offers another option for arthritis care near the 23696 ZIP code. Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital has a three-star CMS rating.

The hospital likely has a rheumatology department or access to rheumatologists, providing diagnosis, treatment, and management of arthritis. While specific details on the rheumatology department’s size and staffing are not readily available, it is safe to assume that the department provides a range of services, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of various forms of arthritis.

Emergency room wait times at Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital are a factor to consider. Checking real-time wait times on websites like Google or other hospital-specific platforms is a good idea before visiting the ER.

Bon Secours Mercy Health, the parent organization of Mary Immaculate Hospital, has been expanding its telehealth services. Telehealth options, including virtual visits, are increasingly available across various specialties. Patients should check directly with Mary Immaculate Hospital to determine the availability of rheumatology-related telehealth services.

**Specialty Centers and Considerations**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, the 23696 area may offer access to specialized arthritis centers or clinics. These centers may provide a more focused approach to arthritis care, with specialized equipment, advanced therapies, and a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals. Information on these centers can be found through online searches and referrals from primary care physicians.

Patients with specific types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis, may benefit from seeking care at hospitals with dedicated specialty centers. These centers often have access to the latest research, clinical trials, and innovative treatments.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is becoming an increasingly important aspect of healthcare delivery, particularly for chronic conditions like arthritis. Telehealth offers several advantages, including convenience, reduced travel time, and increased access to specialists.

Hospitals in the 23696 area are actively expanding their telehealth offerings. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services for rheumatology appointments, including initial consultations, follow-up visits, and medication management.

**Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Choosing the right hospital for arthritis care requires careful consideration of various factors. Patients should consider the hospital’s CMS star rating, ER wait times, the availability of specialized services, and the presence of telehealth options.

Patients should also consider their individual needs and preferences. Some patients may prefer to receive care at a larger hospital with a comprehensive range of services, while others may prefer a smaller hospital with a more personalized approach.

Consulting with a primary care physician is essential. The primary care physician can provide referrals to rheumatologists, help patients navigate the healthcare system, and coordinate their care.

**Conclusion**

The 23696 area offers several options for arthritis care. Riverside Regional Medical Center, Sentara CarePlex Hospital, and Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital are the major players, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Patients should research their options, consider their individual needs, and consult with their physicians to make informed decisions about their care. The evolving landscape of telehealth is also adding new dimensions to accessing care, offering increased convenience and access to specialists. Ongoing research and updates on hospital performance and service offerings are crucial for making the best choices for arthritis management.