23488, Withams, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23488, Withams, Virginia is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the 23488 Area: A Comprehensive Review

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting task. Access to high-quality care, including early detection, advanced treatments, and supportive services, is paramount. This review analyzes hospitals near the 23488 ZIP code (Suffolk, Virginia) to provide a factual overview of their lung cancer care capabilities, focusing on factors crucial for patients and their families.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The 23488 area is served by a mix of community hospitals and larger regional medical centers. Proximity to Norfolk and Hampton, Virginia, expands the treatment options. The availability of specialized lung cancer programs, experienced oncologists, and cutting-edge technology varies significantly between facilities. This review will assess these key elements.

**Sentara Obici Hospital: A Community Focus**

Sentara Obici Hospital, located within the 23488 ZIP code, is a cornerstone of local healthcare. While it may not boast the same breadth of specialized programs as larger regional centers, it offers essential services for lung cancer patients.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Sentara Obici Hospital holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality based on various measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.
* **Oncology Services:** Obici provides oncology services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. They have a dedicated oncology unit and a team of medical oncologists.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times are a critical consideration. While specific, real-time data fluctuates, Sentara Obici generally reports wait times that are competitive within the region. Patients should consult the hospital's website or call directly for the most current information.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth capabilities are increasingly important for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring. Sentara Obici offers telehealth options, expanding access to care, particularly for patients with mobility challenges or those living in more rural areas.
* **Specialty Centers:** Obici does not have a dedicated lung cancer center. However, patients can access multidisciplinary care through its oncology services.
* **Early Detection:** The hospital offers lung cancer screening using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible individuals (current or former smokers).

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital: A Regional Powerhouse**

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, located a short drive from 23488, is a major regional medical center and a Level I Trauma Center. Its broader scope of services makes it a strong contender for lung cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Sentara Norfolk General Hospital holds a 4-star rating from CMS, indicating a higher level of overall quality compared to Obici.
* **Specialty Centers:** Norfolk General has a comprehensive cancer program, including a dedicated lung cancer center. This center typically offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and other specialists to develop individualized treatment plans.
* **Advanced Treatments:** The hospital offers a full spectrum of lung cancer treatments, including surgery (minimally invasive techniques are often available), chemotherapy, radiation therapy (including advanced techniques like stereotactic body radiation therapy), and targeted therapies.
* **Clinical Trials:** As a major medical center, Norfolk General participates in clinical trials, providing patients access to cutting-edge treatments and research.
* **ER Wait Times:** As a high-volume trauma center, ER wait times can be longer than at community hospitals. Patients should check the hospital's website or call ahead for real-time updates.
* **Telehealth:** Sentara Norfolk General offers robust telehealth services, expanding access to specialists and facilitating remote monitoring.
* **Early Detection:** The hospital provides lung cancer screening programs, including LDCT scans.

**Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center: A Faith-Based Approach**

Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, located in Portsmouth, Virginia (a short distance from 23488), offers another option for lung cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Maryview has a 3-star CMS rating.
* **Oncology Services:** Maryview has a cancer center providing a range of services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
* **ER Wait Times:** Maryview's ER wait times can vary. Check the hospital's website or call for the most current information.
* **Telehealth:** Maryview offers telehealth services.
* **Specialty Centers:** Maryview does not have a dedicated lung cancer center.
* **Early Detection:** The hospital offers lung cancer screening.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center: A Comprehensive Option**

Riverside Regional Medical Center, located in Newport News, Virginia, is another major regional hospital within reasonable driving distance of 23488.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Riverside Regional Medical Center holds a 3-star CMS rating.
* **Specialty Centers:** Riverside has a cancer center that provides a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care.
* **Advanced Treatments:** The hospital offers a range of lung cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.
* **Clinical Trials:** Riverside participates in clinical trials.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary. Check the hospital's website or call for the most current information.
* **Telehealth:** Riverside offers telehealth services.
* **Early Detection:** The hospital offers lung cancer screening.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

Beyond the specific hospital features, several factors should influence your decision:

* **Physician Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the pulmonologist, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, and thoracic surgeon are critical. Research the physicians' credentials, experience, and specializations. Consider seeking second opinions.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Lung cancer treatment often requires a team of specialists. Look for hospitals with a multidisciplinary cancer center that facilitates collaboration among different specialists.
* **Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers the full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Advanced technology, such as minimally invasive surgical techniques, advanced radiation therapy equipment, and sophisticated imaging capabilities, can improve outcomes and reduce side effects.
* **Support Services:** Cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, including patient navigators, support groups, counseling, and palliative care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Location and Accessibility:** Consider the hospital's location, travel time, and parking availability.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online patient reviews to get insights into the hospital's quality of care, patient experience, and staff responsiveness.

**Telehealth's Growing Role:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in lung cancer care. It can facilitate:

* **Remote consultations:** Patients can consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel.
* **Follow-up appointments:** Telehealth can be used for follow-up appointments after treatment.
* **Remote monitoring:** Telehealth can be used to monitor patients' symptoms and side effects remotely.
* **Access to specialists:** Telehealth can provide access to specialists who may not be available locally.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration:**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially in an emergency. While hospitals strive to minimize wait times, they can fluctuate. Patients should check the hospital's website or call ahead for real-time updates.

**Conclusion:**

The best hospital for lung cancer care near the 23488 ZIP code depends on individual needs and preferences. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, with its comprehensive cancer program, advanced treatments, and participation in clinical trials, is a strong contender. Sentara Obici Hospital provides essential services within the local community. Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center and Riverside Regional Medical Center offer additional options. Patients should carefully research their options, considering the factors outlined above, to make an informed decision that aligns with their specific needs and preferences. Consulting with a primary care physician or oncologist is highly recommended to guide the decision-making process.