23507, Norfolk, Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 23507, Norfolk, Virginia is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near 23507 (Norfolk, VA)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Norfolk, Virginia, particularly those in the 23507 ZIP code, understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is paramount. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This analysis aims to offer a comprehensive overview to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Their Footprints**

The 23507 ZIP code sits in the heart of Norfolk, placing residents within easy reach of several prominent hospitals. The primary players include Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD), and Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center. Each institution brings a unique set of strengths and focuses to the region's healthcare ecosystem.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital: A Flagship Institution**

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is a major tertiary care center and a Level I trauma center. It serves as a regional referral hub, handling complex cases and offering a wide array of services. The hospital is affiliated with Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS), fostering a strong academic environment and access to cutting-edge research and treatments.

**CMS Star Rating:** Sentara Norfolk General Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a hospital's overall quality of care based on various metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's crucial to delve deeper into specific areas of strength and weakness.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:** ED wait times are a critical factor for many patients. Sentara Norfolk General's ED typically experiences moderate wait times, which can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the severity of cases. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. It's always wise to check online resources or call the hospital for real-time wait time updates.

**Specialty Centers:** Sentara Norfolk General boasts several specialized centers, including a renowned heart hospital, a comprehensive stroke center, and advanced cancer care facilities. The hospital's focus on specialized care makes it a strong option for patients with complex medical needs.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Sentara Healthcare, the parent organization, has been actively expanding its telehealth offerings. Patients can access virtual appointments with various specialists, remote monitoring programs, and other telehealth services. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and consultations.

**Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD): Pediatric Excellence**

CHKD is a dedicated pediatric hospital, serving children and adolescents throughout the region. Its focus on children's health makes it a critical resource for families in the 23507 area.

**CMS Star Rating:** CHKD's CMS star rating is not directly applicable, as the system primarily evaluates adult hospitals. However, CHKD's reputation for pediatric care is consistently high.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:** CHKD's ED typically experiences relatively shorter wait times compared to adult hospitals, reflecting the specialized nature of pediatric care. However, wait times can still vary depending on the volume of patients and the complexity of their conditions.

**Specialty Centers:** CHKD excels in pediatric specialties, including cardiology, oncology, surgery, and behavioral health. The hospital provides comprehensive care for a wide range of childhood illnesses and conditions.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** CHKD has embraced telehealth to provide remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and behavioral health services. These virtual options are particularly valuable for families with busy schedules or those living in remote areas.

**Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center: Community-Focused Care**

Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center is a community hospital offering a range of services to the Norfolk area. It provides a more intimate setting compared to the larger tertiary centers.

**CMS Star Rating:** Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:** ED wait times at DePaul are generally moderate, often shorter than those at Sentara Norfolk General. However, this can fluctuate based on patient volume.

**Specialty Centers:** DePaul offers a range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. The hospital is known for its commitment to community outreach and patient-centered care.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Bon Secours has integrated telehealth services, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring options.

**Other Considerations: Access, Cost, and Patient Experience**

Beyond the core metrics, several other factors contribute to the overall health score.

**Access to Care:** The 23507 ZIP code benefits from relatively good access to care, with hospitals and physician practices located within a reasonable distance. However, transportation challenges and insurance coverage can still create barriers for some residents.

**Cost of Care:** Healthcare costs are a significant concern for many individuals. Patients should inquire about the cost of services and understand their insurance coverage before receiving care. Price transparency initiatives are gaining momentum, but it's crucial to actively seek cost information.

**Patient Experience:** Patient experience is a crucial indicator of quality. Factors like communication with healthcare providers, the cleanliness of the hospital environment, and the overall level of comfort contribute to patient satisfaction. Online reviews and patient surveys can provide valuable insights into the patient experience at each hospital.

**Specific Metrics and Data Points (Where Available)**

While specific, real-time data can fluctuate, here are some general benchmarks:

* **Sentara Norfolk General Heart Hospital:** Consistently ranked among the top hospitals for cardiac care in the region. Survival rates for heart attack patients are generally above the national average.
* **CHKD Pediatric ED:** Average wait times are typically shorter than those at adult EDs, often under 30 minutes.
* **DePaul Medical Center:** Offers a range of community health programs and services, including support groups and educational workshops.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Based on the available information, the hospitals near the 23507 ZIP code offer a diverse range of healthcare options.

* **Sentara Norfolk General:** Strong in tertiary care, specialized services, and telehealth, but with moderate ED wait times and an average CMS rating.
* **CHKD:** Exceptional pediatric care, shorter ED wait times, and robust telehealth offerings, but limited to pediatric patients.
* **Bon Secours DePaul:** Community-focused care, moderate ED wait times, and telehealth integration, with an average CMS rating.

**Recommendations for Residents**

1. **Consider Your Needs:** Choose the hospital that best aligns with your specific healthcare needs. If you require specialized care or have a complex medical condition, Sentara Norfolk General might be the best choice. If you have children, CHKD is the clear leader. For general care and a community-focused approach, DePaul is a solid option.
2. **Research and Compare:** Utilize online resources like the Hospital Compare website (CMS) to compare hospitals based on various quality metrics. Read patient reviews and gather information from multiple sources.
3. **Check Wait Times:** Before heading to the ED, check real-time wait times online or by phone. Consider urgent care centers for non-life-threatening conditions to avoid lengthy ED waits.
4. **Understand Your Insurance:** Verify your insurance coverage and understand your out-of-pocket costs before receiving care.
5. **Utilize Telehealth:** Explore telehealth options for routine appointments, follow-up care, and consultations. This can save time and improve access to care.
6. **Advocate for Yourself:** Be an active participant in your healthcare. Ask questions, communicate your concerns, and seek a second opinion if needed.

**Conclusion**

The hospitals near the 23507 ZIP code provide a valuable healthcare network for Norfolk residents. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, residents can make informed decisions and navigate the healthcare system effectively. Remember that healthcare is a dynamic field, and it's essential to stay informed and adapt your approach as needed. This "Overall Health Score" assessment serves as a starting point, encouraging further research and personal evaluation to ensure the best possible healthcare experience.