23456, Virginia Beach, Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 23456, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Virginia Beach (ZIP Code 23456)

Finding the right hospital is a critical decision, especially when facing a health concern. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near the 23456 ZIP code, encompassing Virginia Beach, Virginia. The analysis considers factors ranging from CMS star ratings and ER wait times to specialty centers and telehealth offerings, providing a comprehensive overview to aid informed healthcare choices.

**Methodology:**

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single, definitive number. Instead, it's a synthesis of publicly available data, including Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings, hospital-reported data, and information from reputable sources like Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report. The review prioritizes readily accessible and objective metrics to provide a balanced perspective. Note that data can fluctuate, and this review reflects information available as of October 26, 2023.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance:**

The dominant healthcare players in the 23456 vicinity include Sentara Healthcare and CHKD Health System. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital is a major regional facility. It currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects a composite of various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a facility that generally meets acceptable standards. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital is known for its comprehensive services, including a Level II Trauma Center, which is crucial for handling serious injuries and emergencies.

Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, also within the Sentara network and serving the 23456 area, has a 4-star CMS rating. This indicates a higher level of performance compared to its sister hospital. Princess Anne Hospital is particularly recognized for its women's health services and maternity care. This is a significant consideration for families in the area.

Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD) is a dedicated pediatric hospital. While it doesn't receive a CMS star rating in the same way as general hospitals, its reputation for pediatric care is exceptional. CHKD is a regional leader in children's healthcare, providing specialized services for infants, children, and adolescents. Its commitment to pediatric care is a significant asset for families in the area.

**Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:**

ER wait times are a critical factor for anyone needing immediate medical attention. Unfortunately, publicly available real-time wait time data can be inconsistent and difficult to obtain. However, hospital websites and third-party platforms like Google often provide estimates. It's crucial to check these resources for the most up-to-date information. Generally, hospitals with higher patient volumes may experience longer wait times. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, with its Level II Trauma Center, likely sees a significant number of emergency patients.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Beyond general care, the availability of specialized services is a crucial factor. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital offers a range of specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. The presence of a Level II Trauma Center is particularly important for handling severe injuries. CHKD, as a dedicated children's hospital, offers a full spectrum of pediatric specialties, including cardiology, neurology, and surgery.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for routine consultations and follow-up appointments. Both Sentara and CHKD have expanded their telehealth offerings. Sentara provides telehealth services through its MyChart portal, allowing patients to connect with providers remotely. CHKD also offers telehealth options for pediatric patients. The availability of telehealth can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in more remote areas.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient experience is a critical component of overall health. CMS star ratings incorporate patient satisfaction scores. Websites like Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report also provide patient reviews and ratings. These resources can offer valuable insights into the experiences of other patients. It's important to consider both the objective data and the subjective experiences of patients when evaluating a hospital.

**Other Considerations:**

* **Hospital Affiliations:** Sentara Healthcare is a large, integrated health system. CHKD is an independent pediatric hospital. Understanding the affiliations of a hospital can impact access to specialists, resources, and insurance coverage.
* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by organizations like The Joint Commission. Accreditation signifies that a hospital meets specific quality and safety standards.
* **Community Health Needs Assessments:** Hospitals often conduct community health needs assessments. These assessments identify the health needs of the local population and guide the development of programs and services.
* **Cost and Insurance:** The cost of healthcare is a significant concern. Check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and out-of-pocket expenses. Hospitals should provide information about pricing and financial assistance programs.

**Detailed Hospital Profiles (Near 23456):**

* **Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital:**
* CMS Star Rating: 3 stars.
* Key Strengths: Level II Trauma Center, comprehensive services.
* Considerations: Potential for longer ER wait times due to high patient volume.
* Telehealth: Offers telehealth services through MyChart.
* **Sentara Princess Anne Hospital:**
* CMS Star Rating: 4 stars.
* Key Strengths: Strong in women's health and maternity care.
* Considerations: May have a smaller scope of services compared to Virginia Beach General.
* Telehealth: Offers telehealth services through MyChart.
* **Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD):**
* Key Strengths: Dedicated pediatric hospital with specialized services.
* Considerations: Primarily serves children and adolescents.
* Telehealth: Offers telehealth options for pediatric patients.

**Navigating the Healthcare Landscape:**

Choosing a hospital is a personal decision. Consider your specific healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and preferences. Researching the hospitals in your area, comparing their services, and reading patient reviews can help you make an informed choice. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification from healthcare providers.

**Conclusion:**

The hospitals near the 23456 ZIP code offer a range of healthcare services. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital and Sentara Princess Anne Hospital provide comprehensive care, while CHKD specializes in pediatric services. The "Overall Health Score" is not a single number, but a framework for evaluating these facilities. Consider the CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and patient experiences. By carefully considering these factors, residents of the 23456 area can make informed decisions about their healthcare. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and insurance provider for personalized recommendations. This review is intended to provide information and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice.