17009, Burnham, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17009, Burnham, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 17009

This review analyzes the healthcare landscape surrounding ZIP code 17009, focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty center offerings, and telehealth availability. This information is crucial for residents seeking informed healthcare choices.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The cornerstone of healthcare access for residents near 17009 is often anchored by larger, flagship hospitals. These institutions typically offer a wider range of services and often have higher patient volumes, which can influence both strengths and weaknesses.

One of the primary hospitals serving the area is *Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center* in Hershey, PA. This is a major academic medical center and a Level I trauma center. As of the latest available data, Hershey Medical Center holds a CMS star rating. While the exact rating fluctuates, it is crucial to check the most recent CMS data directly for the current assessment. The star rating considers factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, readmission rates, and patient experience.

Another key player is *UPMC Harrisburg* in Harrisburg, PA. UPMC Harrisburg is a large regional hospital with a broad service offering. Like Hershey Medical Center, it's essential to consult the CMS website for the most up-to-date star rating. The CMS ratings are a valuable starting point, but they shouldn't be the only factor in evaluating a hospital.

**Emergency Room Performance and Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical indicator of hospital efficiency and accessibility. Extended wait times can lead to patient dissatisfaction and potentially worse outcomes. Publicly available data, such as those reported to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), provides insight into average ER wait times.

Both Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg report their ER wait times. It is crucial to check the specific times on hospital websites or through resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website. These times can vary based on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of patient cases. Shorter wait times generally indicate better efficiency in the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Beyond general medical care, the availability of specialized services is a key factor in overall health. The hospitals near 17009 offer a range of specialty centers, catering to specific medical needs.

Hershey Medical Center boasts a strong reputation for its specialized centers. It is a major cancer center, offering comprehensive oncology services, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. The hospital also has a well-regarded heart and vascular institute, providing advanced cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. Furthermore, Hershey Medical Center houses a robust children's hospital, offering pediatric services across numerous specialties.

UPMC Harrisburg also offers a variety of specialty services. It provides cancer care, cardiovascular services, and a range of surgical specialties. It is important to research the specific specialties offered at each hospital and to determine whether they meet individual healthcare needs.

**Telehealth Availability and Digital Health Initiatives:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in recent years. It allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, improving convenience and access to care.

Hershey Medical Center has invested significantly in telehealth. They offer virtual visits for a wide range of specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and chronic disease management. They also utilize remote monitoring technologies to track patient health data and provide proactive care.

UPMC Harrisburg has also embraced telehealth. They offer virtual appointments and other digital health services. The specific services and availability should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Specific Considerations for 17009 Residents:**

Residents of 17009 have relatively close proximity to both Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg. This offers a degree of choice in healthcare providers.

The proximity of Hershey Medical Center to 17009 makes it a convenient option for many residents. The hospital's comprehensive services, including its Level I trauma center and specialized centers, are a significant advantage.

UPMC Harrisburg is also readily accessible. Its broad service offerings and regional presence make it a viable alternative for residents in the area.

**Other Hospitals to Consider:**

While Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg are the primary choices, other hospitals in the broader region may also be relevant, depending on specific healthcare needs.

* *WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital* in Lebanon, PA, is another option. It offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialty care. Its proximity to 17009 should be considered.
* *Holy Spirit Hospital* in Camp Hill, PA, is also a potential option. It provides a variety of services, including emergency care, cardiology, and cancer care.

**Factors Beyond Hospital Ratings:**

While CMS star ratings and other metrics are important, they don't tell the whole story. Other factors to consider when choosing a hospital include:

* **Physician Quality:** Research the physicians affiliated with the hospital. Check their credentials, experience, and patient reviews.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its physicians accept your insurance plan.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the hospital's culture and patient satisfaction.
* **Convenience:** Consider the hospital's location, parking, and visiting hours.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the available data, the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near 17009 is generally positive, with a strong emphasis on the performance of Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg.

* **Hershey Medical Center:** This hospital is a major regional healthcare provider with a wide array of specialized services, including a comprehensive cancer center, a robust heart and vascular institute, and a children's hospital. Its Level I trauma center is a significant asset. Telehealth offerings are well-developed. The CMS star rating is an important indicator of quality, but the most current rating must be verified.
* **UPMC Harrisburg:** This hospital provides a broad range of services and is readily accessible to residents of 17009. It offers cancer care, cardiovascular services, and a variety of surgical specialties. Telehealth options are available. Like Hershey Medical Center, the most recent CMS star rating should be reviewed.
* **Other Hospitals:** WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital and Holy Spirit Hospital are viable options for certain needs, depending on location and specific services.

**Recommendations for 17009 Residents:**

* **Prioritize CMS Data:** Always check the most recent CMS star ratings and other performance data for each hospital.
* **Research Specialty Needs:** If you require specialized care, investigate the specific offerings of each hospital.
* **Consider Telehealth:** Explore the telehealth options available to enhance access to care.
* **Check ER Wait Times:** Review ER wait times to understand potential delays in emergency care.
* **Conduct Thorough Research:** Go beyond hospital ratings and consider physician quality, insurance coverage, patient reviews, and convenience.

By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, residents of 17009 can make informed decisions about their healthcare and choose the hospitals that best meet their individual needs. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, so staying informed and proactive is crucial for maintaining optimal health.