17841, Mc Clure, Pennsylvania COPD Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the COPD Score in 17841, Mc Clure, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## COPD Care in Central Pennsylvania: A Hospital Scorecard Near Lewisburg (17841)

Navigating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) requires consistent, specialized care. For residents near Lewisburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17841), access to high-quality respiratory services is crucial. This review assesses hospitals in the surrounding area, focusing on their COPD-related capabilities, using publicly available data and focusing on factors relevant to COPD patients.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville, PA): The Flagship and Its Challenges**

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, approximately 20 miles from Lewisburg, stands as the regional flagship. It's a large, tertiary care center offering a comprehensive range of medical specialties. Geisinger holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While this rating indicates areas for improvement, it's important to understand the limitations of the CMS star system, which doesn't always fully reflect the nuances of specialized care.

Geisinger's Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine department is a significant resource for COPD patients. They offer a dedicated pulmonary rehabilitation program, a critical component of COPD management. This program provides supervised exercise, education on breathing techniques, and nutritional counseling. The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation is a key factor in improving lung function and quality of life for COPD sufferers.

However, like many large hospitals, Geisinger faces challenges. Emergency room wait times can be a concern, potentially impacting timely access to care during acute COPD exacerbations. Publicly available data fluctuates, but it's advisable for patients to inquire about current wait times when seeking emergency services. Telehealth services are increasingly important, and Geisinger has been expanding its telehealth offerings. For COPD patients, telehealth can facilitate remote monitoring, medication management, and follow-up appointments, particularly beneficial for those with mobility limitations or living in rural areas. The specifics of Geisinger's telehealth offerings for pulmonary patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Regional Medical Center (Williamsport, PA): A Solid Option**

Approximately 40 miles north of Lewisburg, UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Regional Medical Center offers another option. While smaller than Geisinger, it provides a range of services, including pulmonary care. UPMC Williamsport also has a pulmonary rehabilitation program, a crucial resource for COPD patients.

UPMC Williamsport has a 3-star CMS rating. The hospital's size may translate to shorter ER wait times compared to larger facilities, which can be a significant advantage during COPD flare-ups. Information on specific wait times is available through online resources, and patients should check this data before heading to the ER.

UPMC has invested heavily in telehealth initiatives across its network. This means that COPD patients in the Williamsport area may have access to remote monitoring, virtual consultations, and other telehealth services. The specifics of the pulmonary-focused telehealth programs should be confirmed with the hospital.

**Evangelical Community Hospital (Lewisburg, PA): Local Access**

Located directly in Lewisburg, Evangelical Community Hospital offers a convenient local option. Evangelical is a smaller community hospital, which can translate to a more personalized approach to care. The hospital's pulmonary services and access to specialists are crucial considerations for COPD patients.

Evangelical's CMS star rating is currently unavailable. The hospital’s size may result in shorter ER wait times compared to larger facilities, which can be a significant advantage during COPD flare-ups. Information on specific wait times is available through online resources, and patients should check this data before heading to the ER.

Evangelical's telehealth offerings are a key factor. The availability of telehealth services, including remote monitoring and virtual consultations, can improve access to care for COPD patients, especially those with mobility issues. The specifics of the pulmonary-focused telehealth programs should be confirmed with the hospital.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Access**

Beyond the main hospitals, it's essential to consider specialized services. Pulmonary specialists are crucial for managing COPD. Patients should investigate the availability and expertise of pulmonologists in each hospital's network. Board certification and experience in COPD management are key factors.

Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are vital. These programs provide supervised exercise, education, and support, significantly improving the quality of life for COPD patients. The availability and accessibility of these programs are critical.

Access to advanced diagnostic tools is also important. Hospitals should have access to pulmonary function testing (PFTs), chest imaging (X-rays and CT scans), and bronchoscopy. These tools are essential for accurate diagnosis, monitoring disease progression, and managing complications.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a significant concern for COPD patients, especially during exacerbations. Rapid access to care can be life-saving. Publicly available data on ER wait times should be consulted. These wait times can fluctuate, so it's wise to check the most recent information.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare. For COPD patients, telehealth offers several advantages: remote monitoring of vital signs, virtual consultations with specialists, and medication management. The availability and scope of telehealth services vary by hospital. Patients should inquire about the specific telehealth programs available for pulmonary care.

**Patient Experience and Reviews**

Patient reviews and satisfaction scores offer valuable insights. Online platforms like the CMS Hospital Compare website and other review sites provide information on patient experiences. These reviews can highlight strengths and weaknesses in a hospital's care.

**Insurance Coverage and Network Considerations**

Insurance coverage is a practical consideration. Patients should verify that their insurance plan covers the hospitals and specialists they are considering. Understanding the network of providers is essential to avoid unexpected costs.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

For residents near Lewisburg, PA (17841), choosing the right hospital for COPD care involves careful consideration. Geisinger Medical Center offers comprehensive services as the regional flagship, but patients should be aware of potential challenges like ER wait times. UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport provides another option with a solid pulmonary program. Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg offers local convenience. Patients should weigh factors like CMS ratings, ER wait times, access to pulmonary rehabilitation, telehealth capabilities, and patient reviews. Consulting with a primary care physician and pulmonologist is crucial in making the best decision for individual needs.