23663, Hampton, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23663, Hampton, Virginia is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Newport News, VA: A Scorecard

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan is a daunting task. Choosing the right hospital, with its specialized expertise and resources, is a critical first step. This review focuses on hospitals near the 23663 ZIP code (Newport News, VA), evaluating their breast cancer care based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information aims to provide a clear, fact-based assessment to aid in your decision-making process.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center: A Leading Force**

Riverside Regional Medical Center, a flagship hospital in the Riverside Health System, stands out as a primary contender for breast cancer care in the area. While specific CMS star ratings can fluctuate, Riverside consistently maintains a strong reputation for quality and patient safety. You can find the most up-to-date rating on the CMS Hospital Compare website. Riverside's commitment to comprehensive cancer care is evident through its dedicated cancer center, which offers a multidisciplinary approach.

The Riverside Cancer Institute provides a full spectrum of services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care services. They emphasize a team-based approach, bringing together surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and other specialists to develop personalized treatment plans. Riverside's breast cancer program is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, a mark of quality and adherence to rigorous standards.

ER wait times at Riverside Regional Medical Center are a crucial factor for patients needing immediate attention. While specific wait times can vary depending on the time of day and patient volume, publicly available data, like those from the CMS Hospital Compare website, provide average wait times. It is important to understand that these are averages, and individual experiences may differ. Riverside's commitment to efficient emergency care is reflected in its efforts to streamline processes and reduce wait times.

**Sentara CarePlex Hospital: Another Option**

Sentara CarePlex Hospital, though located slightly outside the immediate 23663 ZIP code, is a viable option for breast cancer care. Sentara Healthcare is a large regional system, and CarePlex offers a range of services, including cancer care. You can find the most current CMS star rating on the CMS Hospital Compare website.

Sentara CarePlex Hospital’s breast cancer program offers diagnostic imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. They also emphasize patient support services, including counseling and support groups. Sentara’s commitment to patient-centered care is reflected in its efforts to integrate supportive services into the treatment process.

ER wait times at Sentara CarePlex Hospital are another important consideration. As with Riverside, the CMS Hospital Compare website and other publicly available sources provide data on average ER wait times. These wait times can fluctuate, so it is important to check the most current information.

**Specialty Centers and Advanced Technologies**

Both Riverside and Sentara invest in advanced technologies for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This includes access to advanced imaging techniques, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of small tumors. They also offer advanced surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures and breast reconstruction options.

The presence of dedicated breast centers within these hospitals is another positive indicator. These centers often bring together a multidisciplinary team of specialists under one roof, streamlining the patient experience and facilitating communication among healthcare providers. They also often offer specialized support services, such as genetic counseling and survivorship programs.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in cancer care, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and supportive care. Both Riverside and Sentara have invested in telehealth capabilities, allowing patients to access care remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or who have mobility issues.

Telehealth services may include virtual consultations with oncologists, nurses, and other healthcare providers. They may also offer remote monitoring of patients' symptoms and side effects. The availability and scope of telehealth services can vary, so it is important to inquire about specific offerings when choosing a hospital.

**Factors Beyond the Hospital Walls**

While hospital quality is paramount, other factors influence the overall patient experience. These include access to support groups, transportation assistance, and financial counseling. Both Riverside and Sentara likely have partnerships with local organizations that provide these types of support services. Inquiring about these resources during the initial consultation is recommended.

**Data Sources and Limitations**

This review relies on publicly available data from sources such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare website, hospital websites, and other reputable sources. It is important to note that data can change, and this review reflects the information available at the time of writing.

CMS star ratings are a valuable tool for assessing hospital quality, but they are not a perfect measure. They are based on a limited set of quality measures and do not capture all aspects of the patient experience. ER wait times are also subject to change and may not reflect individual experiences.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides a factual overview of the key considerations for hospitals near the 23663 ZIP code. It is essential to supplement this information with personal research, including consulting with your primary care physician, speaking with specialists, and seeking recommendations from other patients.

Consider the following when making your decision:

* **Hospital Quality:** Review CMS star ratings and other quality metrics.
* **Specialty Services:** Assess the availability of specialized breast cancer services, such as a dedicated breast center, advanced imaging technologies, and surgical options.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Evaluate the hospital's commitment to a team-based approach to care.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Determine the availability of telehealth services for consultations, follow-up appointments, and supportive care.
* **ER Wait Times:** Consider average ER wait times, especially if you anticipate needing urgent care.
* **Patient Support Services:** Inquire about access to support groups, counseling, and financial assistance.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider your individual needs and preferences, such as the location of the hospital, the availability of parking, and the overall patient experience.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about where to receive the best possible breast cancer care. Remember to always consult with your healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan.