23709, Portsmouth, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 23709, Portsmouth, Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near 23709

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals near the 23709 ZIP code, focusing on key metrics relevant to lung cancer care, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. While the 23709 ZIP code itself is centered in Portsmouth, Virginia, the review will encompass nearby hospitals in Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Suffolk, offering a comprehensive picture of available resources.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Players and Their Ratings**

The healthcare landscape in the 23709 area is dominated by a few key players, each with its strengths and weaknesses. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings offer a snapshot of overall hospital quality, though they don't perfectly reflect specialty care expertise. It's crucial to consider these ratings alongside other factors when making a decision.

**Sentara Healthcare System:** A major presence in the region, Sentara Healthcare operates several hospitals near 23709. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a flagship facility, consistently receives high ratings and is a Level I Trauma Center. Sentara Leigh Hospital in Norfolk is another significant player. Sentara Obici Hospital in Suffolk also provides care.

**Bon Secours Mercy Health:** This faith-based system also has a strong presence. Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center in Portsmouth, though within the 23709 area, is a crucial consideration. Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center in Norfolk is another option.

**Other Important Considerations:**

* **Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC):** The Hampton VA Medical Center, while not directly in the 23709 area, serves veterans in the region and provides specialized care, including oncology services.
* **Specialty Centers:** The presence of dedicated lung cancer centers, thoracic surgery programs, and radiation oncology facilities is crucial.
* **Telehealth:** The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **ER Wait Times:** While not directly related to lung cancer treatment, long ER wait times can indicate overall hospital efficiency and resource allocation.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital: A Closer Look**

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital (SNGH) often stands out due to its comprehensive services and Level I Trauma Center designation. Its CMS star rating provides a general overview of its performance. SNGH boasts a dedicated oncology program, which is essential for lung cancer patients. They provide a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and other specialists to develop individualized treatment plans.

The hospital's thoracic surgery program is a critical component of lung cancer care. The expertise of the surgical team, including experience with minimally invasive techniques, is a significant factor in patient outcomes. SNGH likely offers advanced surgical options like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and robotic-assisted surgery, which can lead to faster recovery times.

**ER Wait Times:** While specific ER wait times fluctuate, it's essential to research current wait times, which can be found on hospital websites or through third-party websites like Google. Long wait times may indicate high patient volume and can impact the speed of initial diagnosis and treatment.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Sentara Healthcare has invested in telehealth services. Telehealth can be beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring, especially for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues.

**Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center: A Local Option**

Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, located in Portsmouth, is a convenient option for residents of the 23709 area. Maryview has an oncology program and a cancer center that provides comprehensive cancer care, including lung cancer treatment.

The hospital's oncology program offers a multidisciplinary approach, with a team of specialists collaborating on patient care. Maryview likely has radiation oncology services, which are essential for many lung cancer patients.

**ER Wait Times:** As with other hospitals, researching current ER wait times is important.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Bon Secours Mercy Health has also expanded its telehealth offerings.

**Sentara Leigh Hospital: Another Sentara Choice**

Sentara Leigh Hospital in Norfolk is another Sentara facility. This hospital also has an oncology program. The hospital's proximity to SNGH could allow for quick transfers if more specialized care is needed.

**ER Wait Times:** Check current wait times.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Sentara's telehealth services are available.

**Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center: A Norfolk Option**

Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center in Norfolk also provides oncology services. The hospital's location in Norfolk makes it a potential choice for patients in the area.

**ER Wait Times:** Check current wait times.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Bon Secours Mercy Health has telehealth services.

**Sentara Obici Hospital: Suffolk Coverage**

Sentara Obici Hospital in Suffolk provides care for patients in the western part of the region.

**ER Wait Times:** Check current wait times.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Sentara's telehealth services are available.

**The Hampton VA Medical Center: Serving Veterans**

The Hampton VA Medical Center is a crucial resource for veterans in the area. The VA system provides comprehensive healthcare, including oncology services. Veterans with lung cancer can access specialized care and support services.

The VA system often has dedicated lung cancer screening programs and offers advanced treatment options. The VA also provides support services like counseling, financial assistance, and transportation.

**ER Wait Times:** The VA system has its own ER wait time reporting.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** The VA has invested heavily in telehealth, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: Beyond the Basics**

Beyond the general oncology programs, look for hospitals with specialized lung cancer centers or programs. These centers often have multidisciplinary teams, clinical trials, and advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies.

* **Thoracic Surgery Programs:** The expertise of the surgical team is critical. Inquire about the surgeons' experience with different surgical techniques, including minimally invasive options.
* **Radiation Oncology:** The availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), is crucial for many lung cancer patients.
* **Medical Oncology:** Access to experienced medical oncologists who specialize in lung cancer is essential.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participating in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments. Inquire about the availability of clinical trials at each hospital.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare. It can improve access to care, especially for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues.

* **Virtual Consultations:** Telehealth allows patients to have virtual consultations with their doctors.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Some hospitals offer remote monitoring programs to track patients' vital signs and symptoms.
* **Medication Management:** Telehealth can be used to manage medications and provide medication education.

**ER Wait Times: A Sign of Hospital Efficiency**

While not directly related to lung cancer treatment, ER wait times can be an indicator of overall hospital efficiency and resource allocation. Long wait times can delay diagnosis and treatment.

**Researching ER wait times:**

* **Hospital Websites:** Many hospitals publish their ER wait times on their websites.
* **Third-Party Websites:** Websites like Google and others provide information on ER wait times.

**Making Your Choice: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Consider the following factors:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** While not the only factor, CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality.
* **Specialty Programs:** Look for hospitals with dedicated lung cancer centers, thoracic surgery programs, and radiation oncology facilities.
* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and expertise of the doctors, including surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Consider the availability of telehealth services.
* **ER Wait Times:** Consider ER wait times.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials.
* **Proximity:** Consider the hospital's location and ease of access.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

This review provides a foundation for understanding the lung cancer care landscape near the 23709 ZIP code. It is crucial to conduct thorough research, consult with your primary care physician, and seek second opinions from specialists to make an informed decision about your care. By carefully considering these factors, you can find the hospital that best meets your needs and provides the best possible chance for a positive outcome.