17842, Middleburg, Pennsylvania COPD Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the COPD Score in 17842, Middleburg, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## COPD Care in the Heart of Pennsylvania: A Review of Hospitals Near Lewisburg (17842)

Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, nestled in the Susquehanna Valley, offers a range of healthcare options for residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This review delves into the key hospitals serving the area, focusing on their COPD-related services, quality metrics, and accessibility. We'll examine facilities within a reasonable driving distance of the 17842 ZIP code, considering factors crucial for COPD patients, including pulmonology expertise, emergency care, and telehealth capabilities.

**Geisinger Health System: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger, a prominent healthcare system in central Pennsylvania, is a major player in the region. Its flagship hospital, **Geisinger Medical Center** in Danville, PA, is a primary destination for complex medical needs, including advanced COPD management. Danville is approximately a 20-minute drive from Lewisburg.

Geisinger Medical Center boasts a **4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**, a key indicator of overall quality. This rating reflects performance across various categories, including patient safety, readmission rates, and timely and effective care. While the CMS star rating doesn't specifically isolate COPD care, it provides a general benchmark of hospital performance.

Geisinger's pulmonology department is well-regarded. They offer comprehensive services, including diagnostic testing like pulmonary function tests (PFTs), bronchoscopies, and advanced imaging. They also provide pulmonary rehabilitation programs, crucial for COPD patients to improve lung function, exercise capacity, and overall quality of life. These programs are typically led by respiratory therapists and exercise physiologists.

**Emergency Care at Geisinger:** ER wait times are a critical factor for COPD patients experiencing exacerbations. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, it's advisable to check Geisinger's website or use online tools like Google to get the most current estimates before heading to the ER. Prompt treatment in an emergency is vital for managing acute COPD symptoms.

**Telehealth at Geisinger:** Geisinger has invested heavily in telehealth services, which can be particularly beneficial for COPD patients. Telehealth allows for remote monitoring, medication management, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This is especially helpful for those with mobility limitations or who live in rural areas. Geisinger's telehealth platform offers video consultations, remote patient monitoring, and secure messaging.

**Other Geisinger Facilities:**

Geisinger also operates other facilities in the region that may offer COPD-related services. **Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital**, located in Bloomsburg, PA (approximately a 30-minute drive from Lewisburg), offers a range of services, including emergency care and potentially some outpatient pulmonary services. The level of specialized COPD care at these facilities may be less extensive than at Geisinger Medical Center.

**Evangelical Community Hospital: Local Focus**

**Evangelical Community Hospital** in Lewisburg itself provides healthcare services to the immediate community. While it may not offer the same level of specialized pulmonary care as Geisinger Medical Center, it is a convenient option for residents of Lewisburg.

Evangelical’s services include emergency care, which is crucial for managing acute COPD exacerbations. ER wait times are a significant consideration. Checking Evangelical’s website or using online tools to find the most current estimates is advisable.

Evangelical likely offers diagnostic testing, such as PFTs, and may have access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs. However, the scope of these services may be more limited compared to larger regional hospitals.

**UPMC Susquehanna: Expanding Presence**

UPMC Susquehanna, part of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center system, also has a presence in the region, though its facilities are further from Lewisburg. **UPMC Williamsport Hospital**, located in Williamsport, PA (approximately a 45-minute drive from Lewisburg), is a major regional hospital.

UPMC Williamsport Hospital is a larger facility with a broader range of specialties. It likely has a pulmonology department and offers comprehensive COPD care. The hospital’s CMS star rating and specific COPD-related services should be researched.

Emergency care at UPMC Williamsport is another critical factor. Checking for ER wait times is essential for COPD patients needing immediate care.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Outpatient Services**

Beyond the main hospitals, consider specialized pulmonary centers or outpatient clinics. These facilities may offer pulmonary rehabilitation, specialized diagnostic testing, and consultations with pulmonologists. Researching the availability of such centers in the Lewisburg area or nearby towns is worthwhile.

**Access to Medications and Support:**

COPD management requires access to medications, including inhalers and other respiratory treatments. Ensure that the chosen hospital or healthcare provider has a pharmacy or works closely with local pharmacies to ensure timely medication refills.

Support groups and educational resources are also crucial for COPD patients. Inquire about the availability of support groups or educational programs offered by the hospitals or local organizations.

**Telehealth’s Increasing Role:**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in COPD care. Patients can benefit from remote monitoring, medication management, and virtual consultations. When choosing a healthcare provider, inquire about their telehealth capabilities and how they can be used to manage your COPD.

**Research and Due Diligence:**

Before making a decision, research the specific pulmonologists and respiratory therapists affiliated with the hospitals. Look for board-certified pulmonologists with experience in COPD management.

Read patient reviews and testimonials to get insights into the experiences of other COPD patients. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can provide valuable information.

**Conclusion: Navigating COPD Care Near Lewisburg**

For residents of Lewisburg (17842) and surrounding areas, Geisinger Medical Center in Danville is likely the primary destination for comprehensive COPD care. Its 4-star CMS rating, robust pulmonology department, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs make it a strong choice. Evangelical Community Hospital provides local emergency care and some outpatient services. UPMC Williamsport offers another option, though it is further away.

Remember to consider ER wait times, telehealth capabilities, access to medications, and the availability of support groups. Thorough research and due diligence are essential to finding the best healthcare options for managing COPD and improving quality of life. This review provides a starting point; consult with your primary care physician and pulmonologist to determine the best course of action for your individual needs.