23518, Norfolk, Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 23518, Norfolk, Virginia is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Norfolk, VA (23518)

The 23518 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Norfolk, Virginia, is served by a diverse healthcare landscape. Assessing the "Overall Health Score" of hospitals in this area requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors like quality ratings, emergency room efficiency, specialized services, and the availability of telehealth options. This review focuses on the major players, providing a fact-rich overview to help residents make informed healthcare decisions.

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

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital (SNGH), located at 600 Gresham Dr, Norfolk, VA 23507, stands as a regional powerhouse. It's a Level I Trauma Center, crucial for handling the most severe injuries and illnesses. SNGH is also the primary teaching hospital for Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS), indicating a commitment to research and advanced medical practices.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides star ratings to hospitals based on various quality metrics. As of the latest available data, SNGH holds a respectable, though not exceptional, CMS star rating. This rating reflects a hospital's performance across categories like patient safety, mortality rates, readmission rates, and patient experience. While the exact star rating fluctuates, it's essential to consult the most up-to-date CMS data for the most accurate assessment.

SNGH's emergency department (ED) is a critical access point for the community. While specific, real-time ED wait times vary, it's crucial to understand the general trends. Like many urban hospitals, SNGH's ED can experience periods of high volume, potentially leading to longer wait times. Patients should be prepared for this possibility and consider the severity of their condition when deciding whether to seek emergency care. Resources like the hospital's website or online wait time trackers can offer some insights, but these are often estimates.

SNGH boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. Its heart program is particularly well-regarded, offering advanced cardiac care, including complex procedures. The hospital also houses specialized centers for cancer treatment, neurosurgery, and women's health. The presence of these specialized centers reduces the need for patients to travel elsewhere for complex medical needs.

**Sentara Leigh Hospital: Serving the Community**

Sentara Leigh Hospital, located at 830 Kempsville Rd, Norfolk, VA 23502, offers another important option. As a community hospital, Sentara Leigh provides a broad spectrum of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and various medical specialties. While not a Level I Trauma Center like SNGH, Sentara Leigh plays a vital role in providing accessible healthcare within the community.

Sentara Leigh's CMS star rating, similar to SNGH, is a key indicator of its quality performance. Again, it's essential to consult the most current CMS data for the most accurate rating. The hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient safety and outcomes, should be carefully considered.

The ED at Sentara Leigh provides a crucial service to the surrounding neighborhoods. While specific wait times fluctuate, the hospital strives to provide timely care. Patients should be aware of potential wait times and consider the urgency of their situation.

Sentara Leigh's specialty offerings include services in areas such as orthopedics, gastroenterology, and women's health. The hospital's focus on community needs ensures that a wide range of healthcare services are readily available.

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

For pediatric care, the Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD), located at 601 Children's Ln, Norfolk, VA 23507, is the undisputed leader. CHKD is a dedicated children's hospital, providing comprehensive medical and surgical care for infants, children, and adolescents.

CHKD's CMS star rating is particularly important for assessing its quality of care in the pediatric context. The hospital's performance in areas like patient safety, infection control, and specialized pediatric services is carefully evaluated.

CHKD's emergency department is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of young patients. The ED staff is trained in pediatric emergency medicine, and the environment is tailored to be child-friendly. Wait times can vary, but the hospital prioritizes providing timely care to children in need.

CHKD is renowned for its specialized pediatric services. It offers comprehensive care in areas such as cardiology, oncology, neurology, and surgery. The hospital's commitment to pediatric research and innovation further enhances its ability to provide cutting-edge care.

**Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center: A Historical Presence**

Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center, located at 150 Kingsley Ln, Norfolk, VA 23505, holds a significant historical presence in the Norfolk healthcare landscape. This hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and various medical specialties.

Bon Secours DePaul's CMS star rating provides a valuable benchmark for its quality of care. The hospital's performance in areas like patient safety, outcomes, and patient experience should be carefully considered.

The emergency department at Bon Secours DePaul provides a critical service to the community. While specific wait times fluctuate, the hospital strives to provide timely care. Patients should be aware of potential wait times and consider the urgency of their situation.

Bon Secours DePaul offers specialty services in areas such as cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. The hospital's commitment to community healthcare ensures that a wide range of services are readily available.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services are increasingly important in modern healthcare. Hospitals in the 23518 area are actively expanding their telehealth offerings. This includes virtual consultations with physicians, remote monitoring of patients, and access to online educational resources.

SNGH, Sentara Leigh, CHKD, and Bon Secours DePaul all offer varying levels of telehealth services. The specific availability of telehealth options varies depending on the specialty and the patient's needs. Patients should check with the individual hospitals or their healthcare providers to learn about the telehealth services available to them. Telehealth can be particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and access to specialists who may not be readily available in person.

**Factors Beyond the Hospitals**

Beyond the major hospitals, several other factors influence the overall health score of the 23518 area. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers plays a crucial role in access to care. The presence of community health clinics and free or low-cost healthcare options also contributes to the overall health of the community.

**Conclusion: Navigating Your Healthcare Options**

The healthcare landscape near the 23518 ZIP code offers a range of options, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital stands out as a regional leader, particularly for trauma and specialized services. Sentara Leigh, Bon Secours DePaul, and CHKD provide crucial community-based care. CHKD is the clear choice for pediatric needs. The CMS star ratings, ED wait times, and the availability of telehealth services are all crucial factors to consider when making healthcare decisions. Residents should research the specific needs and preferences when choosing a hospital or healthcare provider. By understanding the strengths of each institution and utilizing available resources, residents of the 23518 area can navigate the healthcare system effectively and make informed decisions about their health.