17024, Elliottsburg, Pennsylvania COPD Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the COPD Score in 17024, Elliottsburg, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## COPD Care Close to Home: A Hospital Review for ZIP Code 17024

Residents of ZIP code 17024, encompassing the town of Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, face a significant health challenge: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This progressive lung disease requires ongoing management and access to quality healthcare. This review examines the hospitals closest to Elizabethtown, focusing on their capabilities in COPD diagnosis, treatment, and management, including factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings.

**Proximity and Key Players:**

Elizabethtown's location offers proximity to several major hospital systems, including Penn State Health, UPMC, and WellSpan Health. These systems operate multiple hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, providing patients with choices in their healthcare decisions. The closest hospitals are the focus of this review, with considerations for accessibility and specialized care.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center:**

Located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, approximately 15 minutes from Elizabethtown, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a flagship facility. It is a Level I trauma center and a major referral hospital for the region. The hospital boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not a perfect score, it indicates above-average performance in various quality and safety metrics. Hershey Medical Center’s pulmonology department is a key asset for COPD patients. They offer comprehensive services, including advanced diagnostic testing, pulmonary rehabilitation, and access to clinical trials.

**ER Wait Times at Hershey Medical Center:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for patients experiencing COPD exacerbations. The most recent data indicates that the median ER wait time at Hershey Medical Center is around 20-30 minutes, though this can fluctuate depending on patient volume and acuity. This is a relatively good performance compared to the national average, but patients should always consider the potential for longer waits during peak hours.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care at Hershey:**

Penn State Health has significantly invested in telehealth capabilities, a crucial resource for managing chronic conditions like COPD. They offer virtual appointments for follow-up care, medication management, and patient education. This reduces the need for frequent in-person visits, improving convenience and access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. The specifics of COPD-related telehealth programs, such as remote monitoring of oxygen saturation or symptom tracking, should be inquired about directly with the pulmonology department.

**Specialty Centers and Resources at Hershey:**

Hershey Medical Center houses several specialty centers that can benefit COPD patients. These include a comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation program, a lung transplant center, and a sleep disorders center. These resources provide a multidisciplinary approach to COPD care, addressing various aspects of the disease. The pulmonary rehabilitation program is particularly valuable, offering supervised exercise, education, and support to help patients improve their lung function and quality of life.

**WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital:**

Located in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, approximately 20 minutes from Elizabethtown, WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital provides another option for local residents. It is a community hospital offering a range of services, including pulmonary care. CMS data shows a 3-star rating.

**ER Wait Times at Good Samaritan:**

Good Samaritan Hospital's ER wait times are generally comparable to Hershey Medical Center, with a median wait time typically ranging from 20-30 minutes. However, it is essential to confirm the most up-to-date information directly from the hospital's website or by calling the ER.

**Telehealth at Good Samaritan:**

WellSpan Health, as a system, also provides telehealth services. Patients can expect virtual appointments for follow-up care and medication management. Specific COPD-related telehealth programs should be confirmed with the pulmonary department.

**Specialty Resources at Good Samaritan:**

Good Samaritan Hospital offers pulmonary rehabilitation services, providing patients with exercise programs and education. The availability of other specialized services, such as lung cancer screening or advanced diagnostic testing, should be confirmed with the hospital.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital:**

Located in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, approximately 30 minutes from Elizabethtown, UPMC Harrisburg Hospital is another option for COPD patients. It is a large hospital offering a wide array of services. CMS data shows a 3-star rating.

**ER Wait Times at Harrisburg Hospital:**

ER wait times at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital can vary, but the average wait time is often around 30-45 minutes. Patients should always check the hospital's website or call the ER for the most current information.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care at Harrisburg:**

UPMC has expanded its telehealth services. Patients can expect virtual appointments for follow-up care and medication management. Specific COPD-related telehealth programs should be confirmed with the pulmonary department.

**Specialty Resources at Harrisburg:**

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital offers a pulmonary rehabilitation program. The availability of other specialized services, such as lung cancer screening or advanced diagnostic testing, should be confirmed with the hospital.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

Beyond the specific services and ratings, several factors should influence a patient's choice of hospital for COPD care:

* **Physician Expertise:** Research the pulmonologists at each hospital. Consider their experience, board certifications, and areas of specialization.
* **Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program:** A strong pulmonary rehabilitation program is crucial for managing COPD. Inquire about the program's structure, staff, and success rates.
* **Access to Advanced Technology:** Ensure the hospital has access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as high-resolution CT scans and bronchoscopy, for accurate diagnosis and monitoring.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its physicians accept your insurance plan.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get insights into the hospital's quality of care and patient experience.
* **Proximity and Transportation:** Consider the distance to the hospital and the availability of transportation, especially if you have mobility limitations.
* **Support Services:** Inquire about the availability of support groups, respiratory therapists, and other resources to help manage COPD.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of Elizabethtown (17024) have access to several hospitals offering COPD care. Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, with its 4-star CMS rating, comprehensive pulmonary services, and advanced technology, is a strong contender. WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital and UPMC Harrisburg Hospital also provide valuable resources. Patients should carefully evaluate their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage when selecting a hospital for their COPD care. Thorough research, including direct communication with the hospitals and pulmonologists, is essential to ensure the best possible care and management of this chronic lung disease.