23357, Greenbush, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23357, Greenbush, Virginia is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near ZIP Code 23357**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting task. Choosing the right hospital is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 23357 (Chesapeake, Virginia), evaluating their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient care. The information presented is based on publicly available data, including CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star ratings, ER wait times, and hospital websites, as of October 26, 2023. This review is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your physician for personalized recommendations.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Hospitals in the Region**

The area surrounding Chesapeake, Virginia, offers a range of hospital options. Several major players stand out, each with its own strengths and weaknesses in the realm of lung cancer care. These hospitals cater to a diverse patient population, offering varying levels of specialization and resources.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital (Norfolk, VA): A Regional Leader**

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, located a short drive from Chesapeake, is a major regional medical center. It's a flagship hospital within the Sentara Healthcare system. Sentara Norfolk General consistently receives high marks, including a four-star rating from CMS, indicating above-average quality of care. This rating is a composite score reflecting various aspects of hospital performance, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

Sentara Norfolk General boasts a comprehensive cancer program. Their focus on lung cancer includes a multidisciplinary approach. This means patients benefit from the expertise of a team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and pathologists. The hospital is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, such as high-resolution CT scanners and PET/CT scanners, crucial for accurate staging and treatment planning.

Sentara Norfolk General's ER wait times are a critical factor for patients needing immediate care. While the exact wait times fluctuate, understanding the average is important. According to recent data, the average ER wait time at Sentara Norfolk General is often around 2-3 hours. This is a consideration for patients experiencing symptoms like severe shortness of breath or chest pain.

The hospital also has a robust telehealth program. Telehealth is increasingly important for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring. Sentara Norfolk General’s telehealth offerings provide patients with convenient access to care, particularly for those who may have difficulty traveling to the hospital.

**Sentara Leigh Hospital (Norfolk, VA): Community-Focused Care**

Sentara Leigh Hospital, also located in Norfolk, is another option within the Sentara Healthcare system. While smaller than Sentara Norfolk General, it still offers a range of services, including cancer care. Sentara Leigh Hospital's CMS star rating is currently three stars.

Sentara Leigh Hospital's lung cancer program focuses on providing accessible care within the community. They offer diagnostic services, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. While they may not have the same level of specialization as Sentara Norfolk General, they provide a valuable service for patients seeking care closer to home.

ER wait times at Sentara Leigh Hospital are generally shorter than at Sentara Norfolk General. The average ER wait time is typically around 1-2 hours. This can be a significant advantage for patients requiring immediate medical attention.

Telehealth services are also available at Sentara Leigh Hospital. They provide a convenient way for patients to connect with their healthcare providers for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center (Portsmouth, VA): A Catholic Healthcare Provider**

Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, located in Portsmouth, is another option for patients near Chesapeake. It is part of the Bon Secours Mercy Health system. Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center has a three-star CMS rating.

Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center offers cancer care services, including lung cancer treatment. They have a team of oncologists and other specialists. The hospital's approach to care is often guided by its Catholic faith-based mission, emphasizing compassion and patient-centered care.

ER wait times at Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center vary. It's advisable to check current wait times before going to the emergency room.

Telehealth services are available at Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center. This is a convenient option for patients.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center (Newport News, VA): A Regional System**

Riverside Regional Medical Center, located in Newport News, is another major healthcare provider within reasonable driving distance of Chesapeake. Riverside is a large regional health system. Riverside Regional Medical Center has a three-star CMS rating.

Riverside Regional Medical Center has a dedicated cancer center. They offer a comprehensive range of services for lung cancer patients, including diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The hospital is equipped with advanced technology and staffed by experienced specialists.

ER wait times at Riverside Regional Medical Center fluctuate. It is important to check current wait times.

Telehealth services are available at Riverside Regional Medical Center. They provide patients with options for remote consultations and follow-up care.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: Deep Dives into Lung Cancer Care**

Beyond the general hospital services, specialized programs and centers can significantly impact the quality of lung cancer care. These centers often focus on specific aspects of treatment or offer advanced technologies.

The Sentara Cancer Institute, which serves several hospitals within the Sentara Healthcare system, including Sentara Norfolk General, is a key resource. The institute offers a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, including dedicated lung cancer specialists, clinical trials, and support services. Their focus on research and innovation can provide patients with access to the latest treatment options.

**Diagnostic Capabilities: The Foundation of Effective Treatment**

Accurate diagnosis is the cornerstone of effective lung cancer treatment. Hospitals near ZIP code 23357 offer a range of diagnostic tools. High-resolution CT scans are standard for detecting and staging lung cancer. PET/CT scans are used to identify the spread of cancer. Bronchoscopies, minimally invasive procedures to examine the airways, are also available. The availability and expertise in utilizing these diagnostic tools are critical factors in evaluating a hospital's lung cancer capabilities.

**Treatment Options: Tailoring Care to the Individual**

Lung cancer treatment is highly individualized. Hospitals in the region offer a spectrum of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. The availability of minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), can improve patient outcomes and recovery times. The expertise of the medical oncology and radiation oncology teams is crucial in developing and implementing effective treatment plans.

**Support Services: A Holistic Approach to Care**

Lung cancer treatment is not just about medical interventions. Support services play a vital role in the patient's overall well-being. These services include patient navigation, support groups, nutritional counseling, and palliative care. Hospitals with robust support services often provide a more holistic and patient-centered approach to care.

**Clinical Trials: Access to Cutting-Edge Therapies**

Participation in clinical trials can provide patients with access to the latest advancements in lung cancer treatment. Hospitals with active research programs and affiliations with major cancer research centers often offer clinical trial opportunities. This can be a significant advantage for patients who may benefit from innovative therapies.

**Patient Experience: Beyond Medical Outcomes**

Patient experience is an essential factor in evaluating a hospital. This includes factors like communication with healthcare providers, the availability of patient education materials, and the overall comfort and convenience of the hospital environment. CMS star ratings incorporate patient experience data, providing insights into how patients perceive their care.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become an increasingly important component of healthcare delivery. It offers patients convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Hospitals in the region are expanding their telehealth capabilities, providing patients with more options for accessing care.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer care is a complex decision. This review provides an overview of the key hospitals near ZIP code 23357, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital stands out as a regional leader with a strong cancer program and a high CMS star rating. However, other hospitals, such as Sentara Leigh Hospital, Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, and Riverside Regional Medical Center, offer valuable services and may be a better fit for some patients based on their individual needs and preferences. Patients should consider factors such as specialization, diagnostic capabilities, treatment options, support services, and patient experience when making their decision. It is crucial to consult with your physician to discuss your specific needs and receive personalized recommendations.