23459, Virginia Beach, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23459, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near Virginia Beach, VA (ZIP Code 23459): A Comprehensive Review**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting experience. Selecting the right hospital for treatment is a critical decision. This review provides a fact-rich overview of the major healthcare providers near the Virginia Beach, VA ZIP code 23459, focusing on key metrics relevant to lung cancer care, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**Sentara Healthcare: A Dominant Regional Presence**

Sentara Healthcare is a major player in the Hampton Roads region, with several hospitals within a reasonable distance of 23459. Sentara offers a comprehensive network, but the quality of care can vary between facilities.

**Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital:** This hospital is a primary hub for the Sentara system and is located directly within Virginia Beach. It holds a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The CMS star ratings are based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating is considered average, it indicates areas where the hospital could improve.

Sentara Virginia Beach General has a dedicated cancer program, offering surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology services. The hospital also features a lung cancer screening program, which is vital for early detection and improved outcomes. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as PET/CT scans, is also crucial for accurate staging and monitoring of the disease.

Emergency room wait times at Sentara Virginia Beach General can fluctuate. Data from third-party sources suggests average wait times can vary, so patients should be prepared for potential delays. Telehealth services are increasingly available within the Sentara system, including oncology consultations. The specific availability of lung cancer-related telehealth appointments should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Sentara Princess Anne Hospital:** Another Sentara facility within the Virginia Beach area, Princess Anne Hospital, also holds a 3-star CMS rating. This hospital provides a range of services, including cancer care. The cancer program at Princess Anne offers medical and radiation oncology. The availability of surgical oncology may be limited compared to Virginia Beach General, and patients might be transferred to other Sentara facilities for certain procedures.

Emergency room wait times at Princess Anne Hospital also fluctuate, and potential patients should be prepared for variability. Telehealth services are expanding within the Sentara network, and it's worth checking the availability of oncology appointments.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital:** Located in Norfolk, this hospital is a major tertiary care center within the Sentara system. It boasts a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of overall quality compared to the Virginia Beach facilities. Norfolk General is a teaching hospital and often handles complex cases.

The hospital features a comprehensive cancer program, including surgical, medical, and radiation oncology. It is a designated Level I trauma center, meaning it has the resources to handle the most critical cases. This can be beneficial for lung cancer patients who may experience complications or require intensive care.

Emergency room wait times at Norfolk General can be longer than at the Virginia Beach hospitals due to the hospital's role as a regional referral center. Telehealth services are available, and patients should inquire about lung cancer-specific options.

**Bon Secours Health System: A Catholic Healthcare Provider**

Bon Secours is another major healthcare provider in the region, with a presence in the Norfolk area.

**Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center:** Located in Norfolk, DePaul Medical Center offers cancer care services. The hospital's CMS rating is not readily available, so patients should research specific quality metrics.

The cancer program at DePaul includes medical and radiation oncology. Surgical oncology services are available, but the scope of services may be less extensive than at larger facilities. Emergency room wait times can vary, and patients should check current wait times. Telehealth services are expanding within the Bon Secours system, and patients should confirm the availability of oncology appointments.

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Expertise**

Beyond the general hospitals, the presence of specialized cancer centers is important. These centers often offer cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and a multidisciplinary approach to care.

The region has affiliations with various cancer centers, including those associated with major universities and research institutions. Patients should investigate whether these centers have specific lung cancer programs and expertise.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a significant factor, especially for patients experiencing complications from lung cancer treatment. Data from various sources can provide estimates of wait times at each hospital. However, these times can fluctuate significantly based on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall patient volume. Patients should be prepared for potential delays and consider alternative options if wait times are excessive.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in cancer care, providing access to specialists, follow-up appointments, and support services. The availability of telehealth services varies between hospitals. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth consultations with oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists.

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

Participation in clinical trials can offer lung cancer patients access to the latest treatments and research. Patients should inquire about the availability of clinical trials at each hospital. Major cancer centers often have robust clinical trial programs.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Patient experience is a critical aspect of cancer care. Hospitals should offer comprehensive support services, including patient navigators, support groups, and palliative care. These services can significantly improve the quality of life for patients and their families.

**Specific Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

Lung cancer treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and other specialists. Patients should seek hospitals with a well-coordinated team of experts.

The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as PET/CT scans and advanced bronchoscopy techniques, is also essential for accurate diagnosis and staging.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. Patients should carefully consider the factors discussed in this review, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, the availability of specialized services, telehealth options, and the overall patient experience.

While Sentara Healthcare dominates the local market, Bon Secours offers additional options. Patients should research specific programs, physician expertise, and patient outcomes at each hospital. Consulting with a primary care physician and seeking referrals to specialists is crucial. Ultimately, the best hospital for a lung cancer patient is the one that provides the highest quality of care, the most comprehensive services, and the greatest support.