17814, Benton, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Arthritis Score in 17814, Benton, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Arthritis Care in Central Pennsylvania: A Hospital Scorecard Near 17814

Finding the best hospital for arthritis care can be a daunting task. This review focuses on hospitals near the 17814 ZIP code, encompassing the Bloomsburg, PA area, and evaluates their capabilities based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty center offerings, and telehealth initiatives. This information aims to provide a comprehensive overview for individuals seeking quality arthritis treatment in the region.

**Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA:**

Geisinger Medical Center, located in Danville, PA, is a flagship institution and a major player in the healthcare landscape near 17814. It holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not a top-tier rating, it indicates an overall performance that is considered average. CMS ratings consider factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

Geisinger boasts a dedicated rheumatology department, offering a range of services for arthritis patients. They provide diagnosis, treatment, and management of various arthritic conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, and gout. The hospital’s website highlights its commitment to a multidisciplinary approach, often involving collaboration between rheumatologists, physical therapists, and other specialists.

Emergency room wait times at Geisinger Medical Center are a crucial factor for patients experiencing acute arthritis flares or related complications. While specific, constantly updated wait times are not always available, public data suggests that wait times can fluctuate. It is advisable to check current wait times on the hospital's website or through third-party platforms before visiting the ER.

Geisinger is also known for its telehealth initiatives. They offer virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs, which can be particularly beneficial for arthritis patients who may have mobility limitations or live in rural areas. Telehealth services allow for convenient access to care, medication management, and follow-up appointments. Specific details on the availability of rheumatology-related telehealth services can be found on the Geisinger website.

**UPMC Susquehanna, Williamsport, PA:**

UPMC Susquehanna, with its main campus in Williamsport, PA, is another major healthcare provider within a reasonable distance of the 17814 ZIP code. UPMC Susquehanna's performance is reflected in its CMS star rating, which is currently unavailable for its Williamsport campus. This means there is no publicly available overall performance rating from CMS.

UPMC Susquehanna offers rheumatology services, providing diagnosis and treatment for various arthritic conditions. Information on the specific scope of services, including the availability of specialized treatments or research programs, is best obtained directly from the hospital.

Emergency room wait times at UPMC Susquehanna can vary. As with Geisinger, checking current wait times on their website or a third-party platform before visiting the ER is recommended.

UPMC has been actively expanding its telehealth offerings across its network. It is likely that UPMC Susquehanna provides telehealth services, including virtual consultations for rheumatology patients. Details on the availability and scope of these services can be found on the UPMC Susquehanna website.

**Evangelical Community Hospital, Lewisburg, PA:**

Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, PA, is another option for residents near the 17814 ZIP code. Evangelical Community Hospital does not have a current CMS star rating.

Evangelical Community Hospital offers a range of medical services, and it's crucial to ascertain the specific rheumatology services offered. Information about rheumatology services, including the availability of specialized treatments or programs, should be obtained directly from the hospital.

Emergency room wait times are a key consideration. Checking the hospital's website or a third-party platform for real-time wait times is recommended.

Evangelical Community Hospital has been expanding its telehealth offerings. Information on the availability of telehealth services, including those related to rheumatology, can be found on the hospital's website.

**Other Considerations and Factors:**

Beyond the major hospitals, several other factors are important in choosing a hospital for arthritis care:

* **Physician Expertise:** The experience and specialization of the rheumatologists are critical. Research the physicians' credentials, board certifications, and areas of expertise.
* **Treatment Options:** Consider the availability of various treatment options, including medication management, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and surgical interventions.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gauge the quality of care and patient satisfaction.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its physicians accept your insurance plan.
* **Accessibility:** Consider the hospital's location, parking availability, and ease of access.
* **Specialty Centers:** Some hospitals have specialized centers for specific types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. These centers may offer more comprehensive care and access to clinical trials.

**Comparative Analysis:**

Comparing the hospitals based on the available information reveals some key differences. Geisinger Medical Center, with its 3-star CMS rating, provides a baseline for overall hospital performance. UPMC Susquehanna's lack of a rating requires further investigation into its specific quality metrics. Evangelical Community Hospital's lack of a CMS rating similarly necessitates further research.

**Telehealth's Role:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in arthritis care. It offers convenience, reduces travel time, and allows for more frequent monitoring of patients' conditions. When evaluating hospitals, consider the availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for arthritis patients, especially during acute flares or when experiencing complications. Checking real-time wait times on hospital websites or third-party platforms before visiting the ER is essential.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the best hospital for arthritis care near the 17814 ZIP code requires careful consideration of various factors, including CMS star ratings, rheumatology services, ER wait times, telehealth offerings, and patient reviews. Geisinger Medical Center, with its established presence and 3-star CMS rating, is a major contender. UPMC Susquehanna and Evangelical Community Hospital also offer rheumatology services, but further investigation into their specific quality metrics is necessary. Patients should research the hospitals, consult with their primary care physicians, and consider their individual needs and preferences to make an informed decision about their arthritis care.