23603, Newport News, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23603, Newport News, Virginia is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Hampton, VA: A Scorecard for 23603

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital for treatment is a critical decision. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 23603 (Hampton, VA), focusing on key metrics for breast cancer care. This information is intended to help patients make informed choices, but it is not a substitute for medical advice.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The Hampton Roads region, including Hampton, offers a range of healthcare options. Proximity to major medical centers in Norfolk and Newport News expands the available choices. This review considers hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, focusing on those that consistently treat breast cancer patients.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality and patient experience. These ratings provide a general indicator of overall performance, though they don't solely reflect breast cancer care.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center (Newport News):** This hospital, part of the Riverside Health System, is a major player in the region. While CMS star ratings can fluctuate, Riverside consistently invests in advanced technology and specialized programs. They have a dedicated cancer center, which is crucial for comprehensive breast cancer treatment. Patients should inquire about the specific breast cancer program, including the availability of multidisciplinary teams (surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, etc.).

**Sentara CarePlex Hospital (Hampton):** Located directly within the 23603 ZIP code, Sentara CarePlex is a convenient option for residents. Sentara Healthcare is a large system with significant resources. Patients should investigate the hospital’s breast cancer program, including accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer. This accreditation signals a commitment to quality standards.

**Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital (Newport News):** This hospital is another option within reasonable driving distance. Patients should research the hospital's breast cancer services, including the availability of advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and access to clinical trials.

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Consideration:**

While not directly related to breast cancer treatment, ER wait times can be a factor during treatment. Patients experiencing side effects from chemotherapy or other complications may need prompt medical attention.

**Sentara CarePlex Hospital:** Publicly available data suggests that ER wait times at Sentara CarePlex can vary. Patients should check up-to-date wait times on the hospital’s website or through resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center:** Riverside Regional Medical Center's ER wait times should be assessed using the same methods.

**Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital:** ER wait times at this hospital should also be researched.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Dedicated breast cancer centers often offer a more comprehensive approach to care. These centers typically provide a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and support staff.

**Riverside Cancer Institute:** Riverside Health System has a well-established cancer institute. Patients should investigate the specific breast cancer services offered, including access to genetic counseling, reconstructive surgery options, and support groups.

**Sentara Cancer Center:** Sentara Healthcare also has a comprehensive cancer center. Patients should research the specific breast cancer program, including the availability of advanced treatment options like targeted therapies and immunotherapy.

**Bon Secours Cancer Institute:** Bon Secours likely offers a cancer institute or program. Patients should investigate the specific breast cancer services offered, including access to advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and access to clinical trials.

**Advanced Imaging Technologies:**

Early detection is critical in breast cancer treatment. Hospitals should offer state-of-the-art imaging technologies.

**Mammography:** 2D and 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) are essential for screening and diagnosis. Inquire about the availability of these technologies at each hospital.

**Ultrasound:** Ultrasound is often used to further investigate suspicious findings on mammograms.

**MRI:** Breast MRI is sometimes used for high-risk patients or to assess the extent of the disease.

**PET/CT Scans:** These scans can help determine if cancer has spread.

**Treatment Options: Surgical, Medical, and Radiation Oncology:**

**Surgical Oncology:** The availability of experienced breast surgeons is paramount. Inquire about the surgeons' experience, their approach to different surgical techniques (lumpectomy, mastectomy, sentinel node biopsy), and their collaboration with other specialists.

**Medical Oncology:** Medical oncologists administer chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Patients should inquire about the oncologists' experience with different breast cancer subtypes and their access to clinical trials.

**Radiation Oncology:** Radiation therapy is often used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. Investigate the availability of advanced radiation techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT).

**Reconstructive Surgery:**

For patients undergoing mastectomy, reconstructive surgery options are essential. Inquire about the availability of different reconstructive techniques, including implant-based reconstruction and autologous reconstruction (using the patient's own tissue).

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth services can improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Riverside Health System:** Riverside may offer telehealth services for certain aspects of breast cancer care. Patients should inquire about the availability of virtual appointments and remote monitoring programs.

**Sentara Healthcare:** Sentara likely offers telehealth options. Patients should inquire about the availability of virtual appointments and remote monitoring programs.

**Bon Secours:** Bon Secours may offer telehealth options. Patients should inquire about the availability of virtual appointments and remote monitoring programs.

**Clinical Trials:**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments. Inquire about the availability of clinical trials for breast cancer at each hospital.

**Patient Support Services:**

Comprehensive breast cancer care includes support services to address the emotional, psychological, and practical needs of patients.

**Support Groups:** Inquire about the availability of support groups for patients and their families.

**Patient Navigators:** Patient navigators can help patients navigate the healthcare system, schedule appointments, and access resources.

**Financial Counseling:** Financial counselors can help patients understand their insurance coverage and access financial assistance programs.

**Rehabilitation Services:** Physical therapy and occupational therapy can help patients recover from treatment side effects.

**Accreditation and Recognition:**

Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer and the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) indicates a commitment to quality standards.

**Researching Individual Physicians:**

Beyond hospital ratings, researching individual physicians is crucial.

**Board Certification:** Ensure that physicians are board-certified in their respective specialties.

**Experience:** Inquire about the physicians' experience treating breast cancer patients.

**Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews online, but remember that these are subjective.

**Communication Style:** Consider the physicians' communication style and whether it aligns with your needs.

**Insurance Coverage:**

Confirm that the hospital and physicians accept your insurance plan.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision. This review provides a starting point for research. Patients should carefully evaluate the factors discussed, conduct thorough research, and consult with their primary care physician to make the best choice for their individual needs. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.