23177, Walkerton, Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 23177, Walkerton, Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 23177

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents near ZIP code 23177 (Williamsburg, Virginia, and surrounding areas), understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability. The analysis focuses on major hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, offering a comprehensive overview to inform healthcare decisions.

**Defining the Scope:**

The primary focus is on hospitals readily accessible to residents of 23177. This includes facilities in Williamsburg, Newport News, and potentially Richmond, depending on travel time and the specific medical needs. The review prioritizes hospitals with comprehensive services and readily available data.

**Understanding the CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a publicly available assessment of quality and performance. These ratings, ranging from one to five stars, are based on various factors, including patient experience, safety of care, and effectiveness of care. While not the sole determinant of quality, CMS ratings offer a valuable starting point for comparison. It is important to understand that these ratings are based on data and may not reflect the entirety of a hospital's performance.

**Riverside Doctors' Hospital Williamsburg:**

Riverside Doctors' Hospital Williamsburg, located directly within the 23177 zip code, is a key healthcare provider for the community. As a smaller community hospital, it is important to note that the hospital does not have a CMS star rating. The hospital focuses on providing a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized programs. The hospital’s emergency room wait times are generally shorter than larger regional hospitals, which is a significant advantage for urgent medical needs. Riverside Doctors' Hospital offers a variety of outpatient services and has a strong focus on patient experience, with a commitment to providing personalized care.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center (Newport News):**

Located in Newport News, Riverside Regional Medical Center is a larger, more comprehensive facility within a reasonable driving distance. Riverside Regional Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating. The hospital offers a broad spectrum of services, including advanced cardiac care, cancer treatment, and comprehensive surgical options. ER wait times at Riverside Regional Medical Center are often longer than those at smaller facilities, reflecting the high volume of patients. The hospital is a regional referral center, drawing patients from a wide geographic area. Riverside Regional Medical Center has invested significantly in specialized centers, including a dedicated heart and vascular institute and a comprehensive cancer center.

**Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center:**

Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center, also located within the Williamsburg area, offers a different healthcare option for residents of 23177. Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center does not have a CMS star rating. The hospital provides a full range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized programs. The hospital’s emergency room wait times are generally shorter than those at larger regional hospitals, making it a convenient option for urgent medical needs. Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center focuses on patient experience and offers a variety of outpatient services.

**Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital (Newport News):**

Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital, located in Newport News, is another major healthcare provider in the region. The hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. Mary Immaculate Hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including a well-regarded maternity program and a focus on women's health. ER wait times at Mary Immaculate Hospital are generally comparable to other regional hospitals. The hospital has invested in specialized centers, including a dedicated heart center and a cancer institute.

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

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor in assessing hospital accessibility and responsiveness. While data can fluctuate, understanding average wait times provides valuable insights. Real-time wait times are often available on hospital websites or through online platforms. Shorter wait times can be particularly important in emergencies, potentially impacting patient outcomes. It is important to note that wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition.

**Specialty Centers: Accessing Advanced Care:**

The availability of specialized centers is a key indicator of a hospital's ability to provide advanced care. Hospitals in the region offer a range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and neurology. Riverside Regional Medical Center and Mary Immaculate Hospital, in particular, have invested heavily in specialized centers, making them regional hubs for complex medical needs. The availability of these centers reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized treatment.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care:**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly in recent years. Telehealth allows patients to access healthcare remotely, through video consultations, phone calls, and online portals. Hospitals in the 23177 area are increasingly offering telehealth options, expanding access to care, especially for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and mental health services. The availability of telehealth can be particularly beneficial for residents in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The "Overall Health Score" is a subjective assessment based on the factors discussed above. It is important to note that this is not a definitive ranking, and individual needs and preferences should always be considered.

* **Riverside Regional Medical Center:** Offers a comprehensive range of services and specialized centers. The 3-star CMS rating reflects a commitment to quality, but longer ER wait times are a consideration.
* **Riverside Doctors' Hospital Williamsburg:** Provides convenient access to care, with shorter ER wait times. Lacks a CMS rating.
* **Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center:** Offers a full range of services and shorter ER wait times. Lacks a CMS rating.
* **Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital:** Provides a comprehensive range of services, with a focus on women's health. The 3-star CMS rating is a positive indicator.

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

Beyond the "Overall Health Score," several factors should influence your choice of hospital:

* **Your specific medical needs:** Consider the availability of specialized services relevant to your condition.
* **Insurance coverage:** Ensure the hospital is in your insurance network.
* **Patient reviews and experiences:** Research patient feedback and reviews online.
* **Proximity and accessibility:** Consider the travel time and ease of access to the hospital.
* **Personal preferences:** Consider factors such as the hospital's environment and patient-centered care approach.

**Conclusion:**

Residents near ZIP code 23177 have access to a range of healthcare options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Riverside Regional Medical Center and Mary Immaculate Hospital offer comprehensive services and specialized centers, while Riverside Doctors' Hospital Williamsburg and Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center provide convenient access to care. ER wait times, CMS star ratings, specialty services, and telehealth availability are all important factors to consider when making healthcare decisions. By carefully evaluating these factors and considering your individual needs, you can make an informed choice and ensure access to the best possible care. It is always recommended to consult with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations and guidance.