23601, Newport News, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23601, Newport News, Virginia is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the 23601 Area: A Deep Dive

Finding the right hospital for lung cancer care is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals near the 23601 ZIP code, offering a fact-rich assessment of their capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. This information is vital for patients and their families navigating the complexities of lung cancer treatment.

**Proximity and Key Players:**

The 23601 ZIP code, encompassing parts of Newport News, Virginia, has access to a range of healthcare providers. The proximity of hospitals and their specific strengths will heavily influence patient choices. This review will highlight the prominent institutions in the area.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center:**

Riverside Regional Medical Center, a flagship hospital in the Riverside Health System, is a primary contender for lung cancer care in the region. Riverside's comprehensive cancer program includes a dedicated oncology center, offering a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. The hospital boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality of care, patient safety, and outcomes. Riverside's ER wait times fluctuate, but data indicates an average wait time often within the national average. Patients should always check real-time wait times through the hospital's website or local sources.

**Specialized Lung Cancer Services at Riverside:**

Riverside's lung cancer program provides a range of services, including advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. They offer minimally invasive surgical techniques, like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), which can lead to faster recovery times. Riverside also has a robust clinical trials program, providing patients access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities. They have a dedicated team of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff working collaboratively to create individualized treatment plans.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring at Riverside:**

Riverside has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly in response to the increasing need for remote patient care. They provide virtual consultations with oncologists, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. The hospital utilizes remote patient monitoring tools to track vital signs and symptoms, allowing for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes. Telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual appointments and patient satisfaction scores, are generally available on the Riverside Health System website or through patient portals.

**Sentara CarePlex Hospital:**

Sentara CarePlex Hospital, located in Hampton, Virginia, is another significant healthcare provider accessible to residents of the 23601 area. Sentara CarePlex is a part of the larger Sentara Healthcare system, and it offers a cancer program with a range of services. Sentara CarePlex has a 3-star CMS rating, reflecting its overall performance. ER wait times at Sentara CarePlex are generally comparable to other hospitals in the region, but patients should always verify current wait times before arriving.

**Sentara CarePlex Lung Cancer Program:**

Sentara CarePlex offers a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care. Their cancer program includes diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation therapy. They have a team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and oncologists, working together to develop personalized treatment plans. Sentara CarePlex also provides supportive care services, such as oncology social work and nutritional counseling, to address the holistic needs of patients.

**Telehealth and Digital Health at Sentara:**

Sentara Healthcare has invested heavily in telehealth and digital health initiatives. Sentara CarePlex offers virtual consultations with oncologists, allowing patients to access care from the comfort of their homes. They also utilize remote patient monitoring technologies to track vital signs and symptoms, enabling proactive intervention and improved patient outcomes. Information on the specific telehealth offerings and utilization rates can be found on the Sentara Healthcare website.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Second Opinions:**

Patients should consider specialty centers and the availability of second opinions. The proximity of specialized cancer centers and research institutions can significantly impact treatment options and access to advanced therapies.

**Specialty Centers:**

While not directly within the 23601 area, the presence of specialized cancer centers within a reasonable driving distance is a crucial factor. Patients may consider seeking care at centers with specific expertise in lung cancer subtypes or advanced treatment modalities. The availability of these centers can expand the range of treatment options available.

**Second Opinions:**

Seeking a second opinion from a different oncologist or institution is a standard practice in cancer care. This allows patients to gain a broader perspective on their diagnosis and treatment options. The availability of second opinion services, either in-person or via telehealth, is an important consideration.

**ER Wait Times and Patient Experience:**

ER wait times are a critical factor, especially in emergency situations. The average wait times for both Riverside and Sentara CarePlex are generally within the national average, but patients should check real-time data before heading to the emergency room. Patient experience, including satisfaction with communication, care coordination, and overall comfort, is another important factor. Patient satisfaction scores and reviews are often available online, providing insights into the patient experience at each hospital.

**Insurance Coverage and Financial Considerations:**

The acceptance of different insurance plans and the availability of financial assistance programs are crucial considerations. Patients should confirm that their insurance plan is accepted by the hospitals and physicians they are considering. Information on financial assistance programs and payment options is typically available through the hospitals' billing departments or financial counselors.

**Clinical Trials and Research Opportunities:**

Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities. Both Riverside and Sentara CarePlex have clinical trial programs, offering patients the chance to participate in research studies. Patients should inquire about the availability of clinical trials that align with their specific diagnosis and treatment needs.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care in the 23601 area requires careful consideration of various factors. Riverside Regional Medical Center and Sentara CarePlex Hospital are the primary contenders, each offering a range of services and a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. Patients should evaluate the CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth offerings, and insurance coverage to make an informed decision. Consulting with their primary care physician, seeking second opinions, and exploring clinical trial opportunities are also essential steps in the process. By carefully weighing these factors, patients can find the hospital that best meets their individual needs and provides the best possible chance for a successful outcome.