23420, Painter, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23420, Painter, Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Your Backyard: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 23420

Living near ZIP code 23420, which encompasses the city of Chesapeake, Virginia, provides access to a range of healthcare options for those concerned about breast cancer. This review delves into the breast cancer services offered by the most prominent hospitals in the area, focusing on key factors like quality ratings, specialized centers, and accessibility. Understanding these elements is crucial for making informed decisions about your care.

**Sentara Healthcare: A Dominant Force**

Sentara Healthcare is a major player in the Hampton Roads region, and its facilities are readily accessible to residents of 23420. Sentara offers a network of hospitals and outpatient centers, providing comprehensive breast cancer care.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital:** This hospital, located a short drive from Chesapeake, is a flagship facility within the Sentara system. It boasts a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), indicating a solid level of overall quality. Sentara Norfolk General is known for its advanced surgical capabilities and its comprehensive cancer program. While specific breast cancer survival rates aren't always publicly available at the individual hospital level, Sentara's overall commitment to cancer care is well-established. Patients can expect access to a multidisciplinary team, including medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and supportive care specialists. ER wait times at Sentara Norfolk General typically fluctuate, but average around 20-30 minutes, according to recent data. This information should be considered as an estimate, and wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases being treated.

**Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital:** Also within the Sentara system, this hospital is another option for residents of 23420. It also holds a four-star CMS rating, suggesting a comparable level of quality to Sentara Norfolk General. Virginia Beach General offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, including diagnostic imaging, surgical options, and chemotherapy. Like Norfolk General, it provides access to a team of specialists dedicated to breast cancer treatment. ER wait times at Sentara Virginia Beach General are also variable, but average around 20-30 minutes.

**Sentara Princess Anne Hospital:** This hospital, situated in Virginia Beach, is another part of the Sentara network. While it may not have the same breadth of specialized services as the larger hospitals, it still provides breast cancer screening and diagnostic services. Residents of 23420 can potentially utilize this facility for initial screenings and follow-up care. CMS star ratings are not available for this hospital.

**Sentara Cancer Centers:** Sentara operates several cancer centers throughout the region, which often serve as hubs for outpatient cancer care. These centers provide chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive services. The Sentara Cancer Center in Norfolk, for example, is a major facility offering a wide range of cancer treatments. Accessing these centers is often facilitated by referrals from primary care physicians or specialists within the Sentara network.

**Bon Secours Health System: A Growing Presence**

Bon Secours is another major healthcare provider in the region.

**Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center:** Located in Portsmouth, this hospital is accessible to residents of 23420. It offers a breast cancer program with diagnostic imaging, surgical options, and supportive care. Bon Secours Maryview is actively working to expand its cancer services and improve patient outcomes. CMS star ratings are not available for this hospital.

**Specialized Centers and Services**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several specialized centers and services contribute to the breast cancer care landscape near 23420.

**Breast Imaging Centers:** Numerous imaging centers offer mammograms, ultrasounds, and other diagnostic tests. These centers play a crucial role in early detection. Sentara and Bon Secours both operate their own imaging centers, and several independent facilities are also available. It's important to confirm that these centers are accredited by organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR) to ensure quality and accuracy.

**Genetic Counseling:** Genetic testing and counseling are increasingly important in breast cancer care, particularly for individuals with a family history of the disease. Several hospitals and cancer centers in the area offer genetic counseling services. These services help patients understand their risk factors and make informed decisions about preventative measures or treatment options.

**Rehabilitation Services:** Breast cancer treatment can have significant physical and emotional side effects. Rehabilitation services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling, are crucial for helping patients recover and maintain their quality of life. Many hospitals and cancer centers offer these services, often as part of their comprehensive cancer programs.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care**

Telehealth has become an increasingly important part of healthcare delivery, especially in recent years. Many hospitals and cancer centers near 23420 offer telehealth options for breast cancer patients.

**Sentara Telehealth:** Sentara has a well-developed telehealth program, offering virtual consultations with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive care. The availability of specific telehealth services can vary depending on the specialist and the patient's insurance coverage.

**Bon Secours Telehealth:** Bon Secours also provides telehealth services, including virtual visits with cancer specialists. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth options when scheduling appointments.

**Telehealth Statistics:** While precise statistics on telehealth utilization for breast cancer care in the 23420 area are not readily available, the trend is towards increased adoption. Telehealth can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and provide convenient access to specialists.

**Accessibility and Insurance Considerations**

Accessibility is a crucial factor in choosing a hospital or cancer center. The proximity of facilities to your home, transportation options, and the availability of parking are all important considerations.

**Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage is another critical factor. It's essential to verify that the hospital and specialists you choose are in your insurance network. This will help minimize out-of-pocket expenses. Contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage for specific services, such as mammograms, genetic testing, and chemotherapy.

**Patient Reviews and Ratings:** Patient reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals offer patient reviews of hospitals and physicians. These reviews can help you understand the experiences of other patients and make informed decisions.

**Making Your Choice**

Choosing the right hospital or cancer center for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. Factors like the hospital's CMS star rating, the availability of specialized services, and the convenience of location should all be taken into account. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek referrals from your primary care physician or other trusted healthcare providers. By carefully evaluating your options, you can find the best possible care for your breast cancer needs.