23460, Virginia Beach, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23460, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near Virginia Beach (23460)

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting journey. Choosing the right hospital is paramount. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals near the 23460 ZIP code (Virginia Beach, VA), focusing on key factors relevant to lung cancer care. We'll examine hospital ratings, specialized services, and accessibility to help you make informed decisions.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The Hampton Roads region, including Virginia Beach, offers a range of healthcare options. Proximity to Norfolk and access to larger medical centers in Richmond expands the available choices. This review prioritizes hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering factors like specialist availability and patient volume, both crucial for optimal lung cancer treatment.

**Hospital Ratings: A Starting Point**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Star Ratings offer a readily available snapshot of hospital performance. These ratings, however, should be considered alongside other factors. They provide a general overview of quality, patient experience, and efficiency.

**Sentara Healthcare System:**

Sentara Healthcare dominates the local healthcare landscape. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, located within the 23460 ZIP code, is a major player. While its CMS star rating fluctuates, it generally hovers around 3-4 stars. This rating reflects overall hospital performance, including patient safety and satisfaction. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a Level I Trauma Center, is a short drive away and typically boasts a higher CMS star rating, reflecting its role as a regional referral center.

**Sentara's Cancer Care:**

Sentara has a dedicated cancer network, Sentara Cancer Network, that provides comprehensive cancer care across its facilities. They offer multidisciplinary teams, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, and specialized nurses. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital offers radiation therapy and chemotherapy services. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, with its greater resources, often serves as a hub for more complex cases, including advanced surgical procedures and clinical trials.

**Bon Secours Health System:**

Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center in Portsmouth, though not directly in the 23460 ZIP code, is a significant option. Its CMS star rating varies, but it generally reflects a solid performance. Bon Secours has a strong presence in the region, and Maryview offers cancer care services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Their oncology program is integrated with other Bon Secours facilities, allowing for collaboration and resource sharing.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

Beyond general hospital ratings, it's crucial to assess the specific expertise in lung cancer care. Look for hospitals with dedicated lung cancer programs, multidisciplinary tumor boards, and access to advanced technologies.

**Sentara's Lung Cancer Program:**

Sentara's lung cancer program is a key strength. They offer a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists from various fields collaborating on patient care. They have thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists working together. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital often houses more specialized surgical expertise, including minimally invasive techniques like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). They also have a robust screening program for early detection.

**Bon Secours' Oncology Services:**

Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center provides a comprehensive cancer care program. They have medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical oncologists on staff. They offer radiation therapy and chemotherapy services. They also have support services, such as oncology nurses and social workers, to assist patients and their families.

**Advanced Technologies:**

Access to cutting-edge technology is vital in lung cancer treatment. This includes advanced imaging techniques for diagnosis and staging, as well as radiation therapy technologies like stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

**Sentara's Technological Advancements:**

Sentara hospitals are generally well-equipped with advanced imaging capabilities, including PET/CT scans and advanced MRI technology. They also offer advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as SBRT, which delivers high doses of radiation to tumors with pinpoint accuracy.

**Bon Secours' Technology:**

Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center has modern imaging equipment for diagnosis and staging. They also offer advanced radiation therapy options.

**ER Wait Times: A Consideration**

Emergency room wait times can be a proxy for overall hospital efficiency and access to care. While not directly related to lung cancer treatment, long wait times can be stressful for patients.

**Sentara ER Wait Times:**

ER wait times at Sentara facilities vary depending on the location and time of day. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital's wait times are often comparable to other hospitals in the area. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, being a Level I Trauma Center, may experience longer wait times due to the complexity of cases.

**Bon Secours ER Wait Times:**

Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center's ER wait times are generally competitive within the region.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth services are increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and managing side effects. Remote monitoring allows for proactive care and can improve patient outcomes.

**Sentara's Telehealth Capabilities:**

Sentara has invested in telehealth infrastructure, offering virtual appointments for certain services. This can be particularly helpful for follow-up appointments and medication management. They also utilize remote monitoring technologies to track patient symptoms and vital signs.

**Bon Secours' Telehealth Integration:**

Bon Secours has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.

**Clinical Trials and Research:**

Participation in clinical trials provides access to the latest treatment options and can improve outcomes. Hospitals with strong research programs often offer more opportunities for patients.

**Sentara's Research Involvement:**

Sentara participates in clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge therapies. Their research efforts are often centered at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.

**Bon Secours' Research Activities:**

Bon Secours, while not as prominent in research as Sentara, may offer clinical trial opportunities through collaborations or participation in regional research networks.

**Patient Experience and Support Services:**

Patient experience is a critical component of care. Look for hospitals that prioritize patient satisfaction and offer robust support services.

**Sentara's Patient Support:**

Sentara provides comprehensive support services, including oncology nurses, social workers, and support groups. They focus on patient-centered care and strive to create a supportive environment.

**Bon Secours' Patient Support:**

Bon Secours offers a range of support services, including oncology nurses, counselors, and patient navigators. They emphasize holistic care and support for patients and their families.

**Accessibility and Location:**

The proximity of a hospital to your home and ease of access are important factors. Consider traffic patterns, parking availability, and public transportation options.

**Sentara's Accessibility:**

Sentara facilities are generally accessible within the Hampton Roads region. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital is conveniently located within the 23460 ZIP code.

**Bon Secours' Accessibility:**

Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center is accessible from Virginia Beach, although it requires a drive across the Elizabeth River.

**Making the Decision:**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment requires careful consideration of all these factors. Sentara offers a comprehensive network of care with advanced technology and a strong lung cancer program. Bon Secours provides a solid alternative with a focus on patient support. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consult with your primary care physician and oncologist to discuss your options and make an informed decision. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek second opinions. Your health is the priority.