23605, Newport News, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23605, Newport News, Virginia is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near Newport News, VA (ZIP Code 23605): A Comprehensive Review**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting task. Finding the right hospital, with the best specialists and resources, is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near Newport News, Virginia (ZIP code 23605), providing a fact-rich overview to aid in informed decision-making. The information includes CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, aiming to offer a comprehensive picture of available lung cancer care.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center (Newport News): A Local Anchor**

Riverside Regional Medical Center, located directly within Newport News, serves as a primary healthcare provider for the local community. While it's a convenient option, its performance in lung cancer care needs careful consideration. The hospital has a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a general assessment of quality and safety, with lower scores potentially indicating areas for improvement. Riverside’s ER wait times can fluctuate, so checking current wait times on their website or through online resources is advisable.

Riverside offers a cancer center, which is a crucial component for lung cancer patients. However, the specifics of its lung cancer program, including the number of board-certified pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists, require further investigation. Patients should directly inquire about the program's multidisciplinary approach, which is critical for effective lung cancer treatment. Ask about their participation in clinical trials, a vital aspect of accessing cutting-edge therapies.

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important. Riverside likely offers some telehealth options, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Confirm the availability of telehealth for lung cancer-related appointments, including access to specialists and support groups.

**Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center (Williamsburg): A Nearby Alternative**

Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center, located a short drive from Newport News, offers another potential option. The hospital's CMS star rating should be checked to gauge its overall quality. ER wait times are another factor to consider, as they can vary.

Sentara Williamsburg provides a cancer center, but the depth of its lung cancer program needs scrutiny. Patients should ascertain the number of specialists, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, and the hospital's approach to multidisciplinary care. Clinical trial participation is also a key indicator of access to innovative treatments.

Telehealth is becoming a standard offering. Confirm the availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients, including consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital (Newport News): Another Local Option**

Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital, also in Newport News, presents another local choice. The hospital's CMS star rating is a key indicator of its overall quality. ER wait times should be checked before visiting the hospital.

Mary Immaculate has a cancer center, which is a critical component for lung cancer patients. However, the specifics of its lung cancer program, including the number of board-certified pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists, require further investigation. Patients should directly inquire about the program's multidisciplinary approach, which is critical for effective lung cancer treatment. Ask about their participation in clinical trials, a vital aspect of accessing cutting-edge therapies.

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important. Mary Immaculate likely offers some telehealth options, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Confirm the availability of telehealth for lung cancer-related appointments, including access to specialists and support groups.

**Considering Hospitals Beyond the Immediate Vicinity**

While local hospitals are convenient, patients should consider expanding their search radius to access potentially superior care.

**The University of Virginia Health System (Charlottesville): A Flagship Option**

The University of Virginia (UVA) Health System, located approximately a two-hour drive from Newport News, is a major academic medical center. UVA’s comprehensive cancer center is a significant asset for lung cancer patients. The hospital's CMS star rating should be checked for its overall quality.

UVA's lung cancer program likely offers a multidisciplinary approach, involving pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists. The hospital's participation in clinical trials is a strong indicator of access to cutting-edge treatments. Patients should inquire about the specific expertise of the specialists, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, and the hospital's approach to personalized medicine.

UVA Health System likely has robust telehealth capabilities, which can be beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring. Confirm the availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients.

**Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD): A Premier Choice**

Johns Hopkins Hospital, located in Baltimore, Maryland (approximately a three-hour drive), is consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the United States. Its Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center is a world-renowned facility.

Johns Hopkins offers a highly specialized lung cancer program with a multidisciplinary team of experts. The hospital's participation in clinical trials is extensive, providing access to the latest therapies. Patients should inquire about the specific expertise of the specialists, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, and the hospital's approach to personalized medicine.

Johns Hopkins likely has advanced telehealth capabilities, which can be beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring. Confirm the availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Beyond hospital ratings and wait times, several factors are crucial when selecting a hospital for lung cancer treatment:

* **Specialist Expertise:** The experience and qualifications of the pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists are paramount.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** A coordinated team of specialists is essential for comprehensive care.
* **Advanced Diagnostic Tools:** Access to state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic technologies is critical for accurate diagnosis and staging.
* **Treatment Options:** The availability of various treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy, is essential.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials provides access to cutting-edge therapies.
* **Support Services:** Access to support services, such as patient navigators, social workers, and support groups, can significantly improve the patient experience.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can facilitate follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring, improving patient convenience.
* **Patient Reviews and Testimonials:** Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the hospital's quality of care and patient experience.

**Obtaining Specific Information**

To make an informed decision, patients should:

* **Contact each hospital directly:** Inquire about the specific details of their lung cancer program, including the number of specialists, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, and the hospital's approach to multidisciplinary care.
* **Ask about clinical trial participation:** This is a key indicator of access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Inquire about telehealth services:** Confirm the availability of telehealth for lung cancer-related appointments, including consultations and follow-up appointments.
* **Check CMS star ratings and ER wait times:** These provide a general indication of the hospital's quality and efficiency.
* **Consult with their primary care physician:** Seek their recommendations and guidance.
* **Consider travel time:** Factor in the travel time to and from the hospital, especially if it is located outside of Newport News.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. This review provides a starting point for evaluating hospitals near Newport News, VA (ZIP code 23605). By considering factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialist expertise, treatment options, clinical trial participation, and telehealth capabilities, patients can make informed choices that align with their individual needs and preferences. Remember to conduct thorough research, ask specific questions, and consult with healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible care.