23451, Virginia Beach, Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 23451, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care in the Hampton Roads: A Review for ZIP Code 23451**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment plan can be overwhelming. This review focuses on the leading hospitals near ZIP code 23451 (Virginia Beach, VA), evaluating their prostate cancer care capabilities. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview, aiding informed decision-making for patients and their families. Data is current as of late 2024, though hospital information can change rapidly. Always confirm details directly with the hospital.

**The Landscape of Care: Key Players and Ratings**

The Hampton Roads region offers a diverse range of healthcare providers. Several hospitals stand out as potential choices for prostate cancer care, including Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, and the larger Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. Each has unique strengths, and understanding their profiles is crucial.

**Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital:**

Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital is a prominent choice. It is a 338-bed hospital and is a Level II Trauma Center. While specific prostate cancer program data is not always publicly available, Sentara Health has a system-wide approach to cancer care. The hospital's commitment to advanced technologies and experienced specialists makes it a strong contender. The hospital has a 4-star rating from CMS.

**Sentara Princess Anne Hospital:**

Sentara Princess Anne Hospital is another important hospital in the area. This 160-bed hospital provides a range of services, including cancer care. It is a part of the Sentara Healthcare system, which allows for collaboration and resource sharing. The hospital's proximity to ZIP code 23451 makes it a convenient option for many residents.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital:**

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a flagship facility within the Sentara system, is a regional referral center and a Level I Trauma Center. It is often a hub for complex cases and specialized treatments. The hospital's cancer center likely offers a comprehensive approach to prostate cancer, including advanced diagnostics, surgical options, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. As a major teaching hospital affiliated with Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS), it has a 3-star rating from CMS.

**Other Important Considerations:**

* **CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality of care, patient experience, and other factors. These ratings can be a helpful starting point, but they should be considered alongside other information.
* **ER Wait Times:** While not directly related to prostate cancer care, emergency room wait times can be an indicator of overall hospital efficiency. Shorter wait times often suggest a more streamlined healthcare system. Check the latest data from the hospital websites or third-party sources for current wait times.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Many hospitals have dedicated cancer centers or programs that offer a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. These centers typically involve teams of urologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and other specialists who collaborate to create individualized treatment plans.

**Sentara Cancer Centers:** Sentara Healthcare system likely has a network of cancer centers. These centers often provide comprehensive services, including:

* **Advanced Diagnostics:** Imaging technologies such as MRI, PET scans, and bone scans for accurate staging and monitoring.
* **Surgical Options:** Robotic-assisted surgery (e.g., da Vinci) for prostatectomy, offering minimally invasive approaches.
* **Radiation Therapy:** External beam radiation therapy, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), and potentially brachytherapy (internal radiation).
* **Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapies:** Medical oncologists provide chemotherapy and targeted therapies for advanced or metastatic prostate cancer.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials for cutting-edge treatments.
* **Support Services:** Counseling, support groups, and patient navigation to assist patients and their families.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare. Hospitals are using telehealth for:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Patients can have initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management visits remotely.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Devices and apps that allow patients to track symptoms, vital signs, and medication adherence, which can be shared with their care team.
* **Patient Education:** Online resources, webinars, and educational materials to help patients understand their condition and treatment options.

**Specific Details to Seek Out:**

* **Urology Department:** Investigate the specific experience and training of the urologists.
* **Radiation Oncology Department:** Research the radiation therapy equipment and techniques available.
* **Medical Oncology Department:** Determine the availability of chemotherapy and targeted therapies.
* **Support Services:** Inquire about patient navigation, support groups, and counseling services.
* **Clinical Trials:** Ask about the availability of clinical trials for prostate cancer.

**Hospital-Specific Considerations:**

* **Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital:** Investigate their specific prostate cancer program, including the number of prostatectomies performed annually and the availability of robotic surgery.
* **Sentara Princess Anne Hospital:** Determine the extent of their cancer services and whether they collaborate with other Sentara facilities for specialized care.
* **Sentara Norfolk General Hospital:** Research the hospital's cancer center, its affiliation with EVMS, and its access to advanced treatments and clinical trials.

**Data Sources and Verification:**

* **Hospital Websites:** The primary source of information. Look for details on cancer programs, physician profiles, and patient resources.
* **CMS:** Check the CMS website for hospital star ratings and other quality data.
* **Third-Party Websites:** Websites such as Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report can provide additional information, but always verify the information with the hospital.
* **Physician Profiles:** Review the profiles of urologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists to assess their experience and training.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials, but keep in mind that these are subjective and may not reflect the entire experience.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer care is a critical decision. This review provides a starting point for evaluating the options near ZIP code 23451. It is crucial to conduct thorough research, gather information from multiple sources, and consult with your primary care physician and specialists to make an informed decision that aligns with your individual needs and preferences. Remember to confirm all details directly with the hospitals and healthcare providers.