17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania COPD Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the COPD Score in 17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## COPD Care in the Harrisburg Area: A Hospital Review for ZIP Code 17044

Living in the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania area, specifically near ZIP code 17044 (Hummelstown), means access to a range of healthcare options for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This review delves into the key hospitals in the region, focusing on their COPD care capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to aid informed decision-making for patients and their families.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare landscape in this area is dominated by a few major players, each with varying strengths in pulmonary care. Proximity to Harrisburg offers advantages, but travel times and specific hospital capabilities are crucial considerations for COPD patients, who often require frequent and specialized care.

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

Located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and a major draw for residents of 17044, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a flagship hospital. It is a Level I trauma center and a teaching hospital, which often translates to access to cutting-edge treatments and specialists. Hershey Medical Center currently holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. While not the highest rating, it still indicates a hospital that meets national standards.

Hershey Medical Center's Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine division is a key resource for COPD patients. They offer comprehensive diagnostic services, including pulmonary function testing, bronchoscopy, and advanced imaging. The hospital has a dedicated respiratory therapy department that provides both inpatient and outpatient services, including pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These programs are crucial for COPD patients, helping them improve lung function, manage symptoms, and enhance their quality of life.

**ER Wait Times:** Data on ER wait times can fluctuate. It is important to check real-time data, often available on hospital websites or through third-party services. Hershey Medical Center’s ER sees a high volume of patients. Patients with COPD exacerbations, which can be life-threatening, need timely care.

**Telehealth at Hershey Medical Center:** Hershey Medical Center has expanded its telehealth offerings, which is particularly beneficial for COPD patients. Telehealth can facilitate remote monitoring, medication management, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This is especially helpful for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Specific telehealth services for COPD should be confirmed with the hospital directly.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital:**

Located in Harrisburg, UPMC Harrisburg Hospital offers another major healthcare option for residents near 17044. It is part of the UPMC network, a large and well-regarded health system. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital holds a **3-star rating from CMS**.

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital provides comprehensive pulmonary services, including diagnostic testing, respiratory therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation. The hospital's pulmonology specialists treat a wide range of lung conditions, including COPD. They also offer access to clinical trials and research opportunities, potentially providing patients with access to innovative treatments.

**ER Wait Times:** As with Hershey Medical Center, ER wait times at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital can vary. It is advisable to consult real-time data sources for the most up-to-date information.

**Telehealth at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital:** UPMC has invested heavily in telehealth services across its network. COPD patients can potentially benefit from remote monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management through these offerings. Information on specific telehealth programs should be verified directly with the hospital.

**Holy Spirit Hospital (Geisinger):**

Holy Spirit Hospital, now part of the Geisinger Health System, is another hospital in the Harrisburg area. While it is located in Camp Hill, it is easily accessible from 17044. Holy Spirit Hospital has a **3-star CMS rating**.

Holy Spirit Hospital offers pulmonary services, including diagnostic testing, respiratory therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation. Being part of the Geisinger system may provide access to broader resources and expertise within the larger network.

**ER Wait Times:** As with other hospitals, ER wait times should be checked for current information.

**Telehealth at Holy Spirit Hospital:** Geisinger has a robust telehealth program. COPD patients can potentially benefit from remote monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management. Details of specific telehealth programs should be confirmed with the hospital.

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond the major hospitals, several other factors are important for COPD patients in the 17044 area.

**Pulmonary Rehabilitation:** Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are a cornerstone of COPD management. Patients should inquire about the availability and accessibility of these programs at each hospital. Programs typically involve exercise training, education, and support groups.

**Specialty Centers:** Some hospitals may have specialized centers or programs dedicated to respiratory care. These centers may offer advanced treatments, clinical trials, and specialized expertise. Patients should inquire about any such centers.

**Physician Availability:** Access to a pulmonologist is crucial. Patients should research the availability of pulmonologists accepting new patients and their areas of expertise.

**Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage plays a significant role in healthcare access. Patients should verify their insurance coverage for services at each hospital and for specific COPD treatments.

**Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** Patient reviews and satisfaction scores can provide valuable insights into the quality of care. Websites like Healthgrades and the hospital's own websites may offer this information.

**Accessibility and Transportation:** Consider the ease of access to each hospital, including parking, public transportation options, and the availability of patient transportation services.

**Specific Treatment Options:** Inquire about the availability of specific treatments, such as oxygen therapy, nebulizer treatments, and advanced therapies.

**Emergency Preparedness:** COPD patients should have a plan for managing exacerbations. This includes knowing when to seek emergency care and having a plan for transportation.

**Conclusion:**

For residents near ZIP code 17044, the Harrisburg area offers several options for COPD care. Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, and Holy Spirit Hospital (Geisinger) are the primary hospitals to consider. Each hospital has its strengths, and patients should carefully evaluate their needs and preferences when choosing a healthcare provider. Factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, access to pulmonary rehabilitation, telehealth offerings, and physician availability are all critical considerations. Researching these factors and consulting with healthcare professionals will help COPD patients in the 17044 area make informed decisions about their care and improve their quality of life. It is important to note that healthcare information changes rapidly. Always verify details directly with the hospitals.