The Sentara Leigh Emergency Department, located in Norfolk, Virginia, is a state-of-the-art facility providing 24/7 emergency care to the community. As a level III trauma center, the department is equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies, from minor injuries to life-threatening conditions. With a team of board-certified emergency medicine physicians, nurse practitioners, and registered nurses, patients receive comprehensive and compassionate care.
One of the key features of the Sentara Leigh Emergency Department is its emphasis on patient-centered care. The department is designed to minimize wait times and ensure that patients are seen promptly by a medical professional. The facility also features advanced diagnostic equipment, including CT scanners, X-ray machines, and ultrasound technology, allowing for rapid diagnosis and treatment of emergency conditions. According to the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), the average wait time in emergency departments across the United States is around 30 minutes, but Sentara Leigh Emergency Department strives to keep wait times below this national average, with an average door-to-doctor time of less than 20 minutes.
Key Points
- 24/7 emergency care with a team of board-certified emergency medicine physicians and nurses
- Level III trauma center with advanced diagnostic equipment, including CT scanners and X-ray machines
- Patient-centered care with a focus on minimizing wait times, with an average door-to-doctor time of less than 20 minutes
- Comprehensive services, including emergency surgery, cardiac catheterization, and psychiatric emergency services
- Collaboration with other Sentara Healthcare facilities to ensure seamless continuity of care, with a patient satisfaction rating of 90% or higher
Services and Specialties

The Sentara Leigh Emergency Department offers a wide range of services and specialties to meet the diverse needs of its patients. These include emergency surgery, cardiac catheterization, and psychiatric emergency services. The department is also equipped to handle pediatric emergencies, with a dedicated team of pediatricians and pediatric nurse practitioners on staff. In addition, the department has a specialized stroke team, which provides rapid evaluation and treatment for patients experiencing stroke symptoms, with a door-to-needle time of less than 60 minutes for thrombolytic therapy.
Quality and Safety
Patient safety and quality of care are top priorities at the Sentara Leigh Emergency Department. The department has implemented various initiatives to ensure that patients receive the highest level of care, including regular quality improvement audits and staff training programs. According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Sentara Leigh Hospital has a 4-star overall quality rating, with a 90% or higher rating for patient safety and satisfaction. The department also participates in national quality initiatives, such as the Emergency Department Benchmarking Alliance (EDBA), to stay up-to-date with best practices and industry standards.
| Quality Metric | Performance Data |
|---|---|
| Door-to-Doctor Time | Less than 20 minutes (average) |
| Door-to-Needle Time for Thrombolytic Therapy | Less than 60 minutes (average) |
| Patient Satisfaction Rating | 90% or higher |
| Emergency Department Volume | Over 50,000 visits per year |

Community Involvement and Education

The Sentara Leigh Emergency Department is committed to community involvement and education. The department offers various community programs and events, including health fairs, injury prevention workshops, and emergency preparedness training. According to the Sentara Healthcare website, the department has partnered with local organizations to provide free health screenings and education to over 1,000 community members in the past year. These initiatives aim to promote health and wellness, as well as provide education on emergency preparedness and response.
Research and Innovation
The Sentara Leigh Emergency Department is also involved in research and innovation, with a focus on improving patient outcomes and advancing the field of emergency medicine. The department has participated in various research studies and clinical trials, including those related to trauma care, cardiac emergencies, and infectious diseases. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the department has received funding for research projects related to emergency medicine, including a study on the effectiveness of telemedicine in emergency care. The department’s research efforts are led by a team of experienced investigators and are supported by a robust infrastructure, including a dedicated research coordinator and access to advanced research facilities.
What are the hours of operation for the Sentara Leigh Emergency Department?
+The Sentara Leigh Emergency Department is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
What types of emergencies can be treated at the Sentara Leigh Emergency Department?
+The Sentara Leigh Emergency Department is equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies, including trauma, stroke, cardiac emergencies, and pediatric emergencies.
How long does it take to be seen by a doctor at the Sentara Leigh Emergency Department?
+The average door-to-doctor time at the Sentara Leigh Emergency Department is less than 20 minutes.
What insurance plans are accepted at the Sentara Leigh Emergency Department?
+The Sentara Leigh Emergency Department accepts most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. It is best to check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage.
Can I get a tour of the Sentara Leigh Emergency Department?
+Yes, the Sentara Leigh Emergency Department offers tours of its facility. Please contact the department to schedule a tour.
In conclusion, the Sentara Leigh Emergency Department is a state-of-the-art facility providing high-quality emergency care to the community. With its emphasis on patient-centered care, advanced diagnostic capabilities, and specialized services, the department is well-equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies. By combining excellent clinical care with community involvement and education, the Sentara Leigh Emergency Department is an invaluable resource for the Norfolk area.