23651, Fort Monroe, Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 23651, Fort Monroe, Virginia is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Newport News, VA (ZIP Code 23651)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Newport News, Virginia, particularly those residing in the 23651 ZIP code, understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is paramount. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, incorporating key metrics to help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. We'll delve into hospital performance, accessibility, and available resources, focusing on hospitals within a reasonable radius of the specified ZIP code.

**The Landscape: Key Players and General Overview**

The healthcare ecosystem near 23651 is primarily dominated by two major players: Riverside Health System and Sentara Healthcare. These integrated systems offer a range of services, from primary care to specialized treatments. The area also benefits from the presence of smaller, specialized facilities that cater to specific medical needs.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center: A Flagship Institution**

Riverside Regional Medical Center (RRMC), located in Newport News, is a prominent facility. RRMC is a large, acute-care hospital and the flagship of the Riverside Health System. It's a Level II Trauma Center, equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies. The hospital’s size and scope contribute to its comprehensive service offerings.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance Metrics**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system to evaluate hospital performance. This rating is based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. As of the latest available data, RRMC has a CMS star rating. (***Note: Specific star ratings fluctuate. Readers should consult the CMS Hospital Compare website for the most up-to-date information.***) This rating offers a snapshot of the hospital's overall performance relative to national benchmarks.

**Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a crucial consideration, particularly in urgent situations. Data on ER wait times can be found on platforms like the CMS Hospital Compare website and other publicly available resources. (***Note: Specific wait times vary and are subject to change. The most current data should be consulted.***) Shorter wait times often indicate efficient emergency room management and can be a significant factor in patient outcomes.

**Specialty Centers and Services at RRMC**

RRMC boasts several specialized centers, including a heart institute, a cancer center, and a comprehensive stroke center. These centers offer advanced treatments and specialized expertise in their respective fields. The presence of these specialized services reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for complex medical care.

**Telehealth Capabilities: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and mental health services. RRMC offers telehealth options, allowing patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely. This can improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or those living in more remote areas. The availability and scope of telehealth services should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Sentara CarePlex Hospital: A Regional Presence**

Sentara CarePlex Hospital, located in Hampton, is another major healthcare provider serving the region. It is part of the larger Sentara Healthcare system. Sentara CarePlex is a full-service hospital with a range of specialties.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance Metrics (Sentara CarePlex)**

Similar to RRMC, Sentara CarePlex also receives a CMS star rating. (***Note: Readers should consult the CMS Hospital Compare website for the most up-to-date information.***) This rating provides a comparative perspective on the hospital's performance.

**Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times (Sentara CarePlex)**

ER wait times at Sentara CarePlex are another critical factor. (***Note: Specific wait times vary and are subject to change. The most current data should be consulted.***) This information is crucial for patients seeking immediate medical attention.

**Specialty Centers and Services at Sentara CarePlex**

Sentara CarePlex offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. The hospital's diverse service offerings cater to a broad spectrum of medical needs.

**Telehealth Capabilities (Sentara CarePlex)**

Sentara CarePlex also provides telehealth services, expanding access to care and convenience for patients. The specific telehealth offerings should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Other Healthcare Options: Expanding the Choices**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, the area surrounding 23651 offers other healthcare options. These include:

* **Specialty Clinics:** Various specialty clinics cater to specific medical needs, such as dermatology, gastroenterology, and ophthalmology.
* **Urgent Care Centers:** Urgent care centers provide convenient access to care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries.
* **Outpatient Surgical Centers:** Outpatient surgical centers offer same-day surgical procedures, providing an alternative to hospital-based surgeries.

**Accessibility and Transportation Considerations**

Accessibility is a critical factor in healthcare. The proximity of hospitals to residential areas, public transportation options, and parking availability all influence accessibility. For residents of 23651, the location of hospitals relative to their homes and the availability of transportation options should be considered. Traffic patterns in the area can also impact travel times to healthcare facilities.

**Insurance Coverage and Network Considerations**

Insurance coverage plays a significant role in healthcare access. Patients should confirm that their insurance plan is accepted by the hospitals and providers they choose. Network restrictions can limit access to certain facilities and specialists. Checking insurance coverage before seeking medical care is crucial to avoid unexpected costs.

**Patient Reviews and Satisfaction**

Patient reviews and satisfaction scores provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Online platforms, such as Healthgrades and Vitals, offer patient reviews and ratings. These reviews can help individuals assess the quality of care, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall patient experience. However, it's important to consider the limitations of online reviews and to interpret them in conjunction with other data sources.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

Creating an "Overall Health Score" involves weighing several factors. These include:

* **CMS Star Rating:** A higher star rating generally indicates better overall performance.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are preferable.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized services can reduce the need for travel.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can improve access to care.
* **Patient Reviews:** Positive reviews can indicate a positive patient experience.
* **Accessibility:** Proximity to the patient's home and transportation options.
* **Insurance Coverage:** The acceptance of the patient's insurance plan.

**Disclaimer and Recommendation**

This review provides a general overview of healthcare options near 23651. The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual healthcare needs vary, and the best healthcare choice depends on the specific situation.

**Recommendation:**

Residents of 23651 should carefully consider their individual healthcare needs and preferences when selecting a hospital or healthcare provider. Researching specific services, confirming insurance coverage, and consulting with a primary care physician are essential steps in making informed healthcare decisions. The CMS Hospital Compare website and other publicly available resources are valuable tools for gathering information and comparing hospitals. It is recommended to directly contact hospitals and providers for the most up-to-date information on services, wait times, and telehealth capabilities.