23661, Hampton, Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 23661, Hampton, Virginia is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Newport News, VA (ZIP Code 23661)

The quest for quality healthcare is a paramount concern for residents of Newport News, Virginia, and the surrounding areas. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the hospitals serving ZIP code 23661, focusing on key performance indicators, specialty offerings, and access to care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview to help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Defining the Scope: Key Hospitals in the Area**

The primary hospitals serving the 23661 ZIP code include Riverside Regional Medical Center, Mary Immaculate Hospital (also part of the Riverside Health System), and Sentara CarePlex Hospital, located just across the border in Hampton. These institutions represent the core of the healthcare landscape for residents in this area. Other facilities, such as smaller clinics and outpatient centers, contribute to the overall healthcare ecosystem but are not the primary focus of this review.

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

Riverside Regional Medical Center (RRMC) is the largest hospital within the Riverside Health System and a major healthcare provider for the region. RRMC is a 500-bed facility and is a Level II Trauma Center, equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies. As of the latest data available from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Riverside Regional Medical Center holds a three-star rating. This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates average performance compared to other hospitals nationwide. This rating is based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

**Analyzing Riverside's Strengths and Weaknesses**

RRMC has a strong reputation in several key specialties. The hospital is known for its comprehensive cardiovascular services, including cardiac surgery, interventional cardiology, and advanced heart failure treatment. They also have a well-regarded cancer center offering a range of treatment options, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Furthermore, Riverside's orthopedic services, including joint replacement and sports medicine, are highly regarded.

However, like all hospitals, RRMC faces challenges. ER wait times can fluctuate, and it's crucial for patients to be aware of potential delays, especially during peak hours. While specific wait time data can vary, it's advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before heading to the ER. Patient experience scores, as reflected in the CMS data, are an area for potential improvement.

**Mary Immaculate Hospital: A Focus on Specialized Care**

Mary Immaculate Hospital, also part of the Riverside Health System, offers a more specialized approach to healthcare. It is a smaller facility than RRMC, with a focus on women's health, behavioral health, and rehabilitation services. Mary Immaculate often serves as a referral center for these specific needs, drawing patients from a wider geographic area.

**Mary Immaculate's Niche and Performance**

Mary Immaculate's Women's Health Center provides comprehensive obstetrical and gynecological services, including advanced surgical procedures. The hospital's behavioral health unit offers inpatient and outpatient mental health treatment, including psychiatric care and substance abuse programs. The rehabilitation services are also a significant strength, with physical, occupational, and speech therapy programs.

CMS data for Mary Immaculate Hospital is available and can provide insights into the hospital's performance in specific areas. The hospital's focus on specialized care allows it to develop expertise in specific areas of healthcare.

**Sentara CarePlex Hospital: Serving the Hampton Community**

Sentara CarePlex Hospital, located just across the border in Hampton, provides a vital healthcare resource for residents of the 23661 ZIP code, particularly those living closer to the Hampton border. This hospital is part of the larger Sentara Healthcare system, which operates multiple hospitals throughout the region.

**Sentara CarePlex's Capabilities and Considerations**

Sentara CarePlex is a full-service hospital offering a broad range of medical and surgical services. It has a Level II Trauma Center and provides emergency care, critical care, and various specialty services. Sentara CarePlex generally has a good reputation for patient care and is a convenient option for many residents of the 23661 area.

CMS data for Sentara CarePlex is available, providing insights into its performance. ER wait times can vary, so it's advisable to check current wait times before visiting.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Metric**

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for patients. The national average for ER wait times is approximately 2 hours. While specific wait times fluctuate based on the time of day, day of the week, and the number of patients seeking care, it is essential to check current wait times before heading to the ER. Many hospitals, including those mentioned in this review, provide real-time wait time information on their websites or through mobile apps.

**Specialty Centers: Accessing Advanced Care**

Beyond general hospital services, the area offers access to specialized centers. Riverside Health System, for example, has a dedicated cancer center offering comprehensive cancer care, including advanced treatment options and clinical trials. The area also has cardiology centers, offering specialized care for heart conditions. These centers often collaborate with the main hospitals to provide seamless care.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important in recent years, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. All the major hospital systems in the area offer telehealth options, including virtual doctor visits, remote monitoring, and online consultations. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty traveling to appointments or who need follow-up care.

**Telehealth Stats and Trends**

The utilization of telehealth services has grown significantly in recent years. Hospitals are constantly expanding their telehealth offerings to meet patient demand. Telehealth services can range from primary care to specialist consultations.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary Assessment**

Based on the available data and information, the overall health score for the hospitals serving the 23661 ZIP code is considered to be good. The area benefits from the presence of major hospital systems, including Riverside Health System and Sentara Healthcare, which offer a wide range of services and specialized care.

**Factors Influencing the Score**

The CMS star ratings for Riverside Regional Medical Center are a factor in the overall score. The availability of specialty centers, such as cancer centers and cardiology clinics, also contributes positively. The increasing availability of telehealth services further enhances the score, providing convenient access to care.

**Areas for Improvement**

Areas for potential improvement include ER wait times, which can be a concern for patients. Patient experience scores, as reflected in CMS data, are also an area for potential improvement for some hospitals.

**Making Informed Healthcare Decisions**

Residents of the 23661 ZIP code have access to a range of healthcare options. When choosing a hospital or healthcare provider, it's essential to consider individual needs, preferences, and the specific services offered by each institution. Checking online resources for wait times, reading patient reviews, and consulting with primary care physicians can help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Conclusion: A Dynamic Healthcare Landscape**

The healthcare landscape in and around the 23661 ZIP code is dynamic and constantly evolving. Hospitals are continually working to improve their services, adopt new technologies, and enhance the patient experience. By staying informed about the available resources and performance metrics, residents can navigate the healthcare system effectively and access the care they need.