17026, Fredericksburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17026, Fredericksburg, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: A Review of Hospitals Near Hummelstown, PA (ZIP Code 17026)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near Hummelstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17026), focusing on key metrics like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. This information is intended to aid informed decision-making, but should not replace consultation with a healthcare professional.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Proximity**

The primary healthcare providers serving the Hummelstown area are concentrated in the Harrisburg metropolitan area. Proximity is a crucial factor, and this review considers hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, typically within a 30-minute radius. The dominant players include UPMC Harrisburg (formerly PinnacleHealth), Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, and several smaller community hospitals.

**UPMC Harrisburg: A Deep Dive**

UPMC Harrisburg, with its flagship hospital at 111 South Front Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101, is a significant presence. UPMC Harrisburg operates multiple campuses, including Community Osteopathic Hospital and West Shore Hospital. The main campus is a large, multi-specialty facility. Its CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating is a critical indicator of overall quality. CMS assigns star ratings based on various measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While specific star ratings fluctuate, it's essential to check the most recent data on the CMS Hospital Compare website (Medicare.gov) for the most up-to-date assessment.

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration. While real-time wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day and patient volume, UPMC Harrisburg typically reports its average ER wait times on its website and through third-party platforms. These platforms often provide estimates, but it's important to remember that these are averages and individual experiences may differ. UPMC Harrisburg has a robust emergency department, equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies.

UPMC Harrisburg offers a comprehensive range of specialized services. They have dedicated centers for cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and women's health. They also provide advanced surgical procedures and intensive care units. The hospital’s website details the specific specialties and services offered, including the availability of specialized physicians and support staff.

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important. UPMC Harrisburg has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists through video conferencing. The availability and scope of telehealth services are constantly evolving; patients should check the UPMC website for current telehealth options.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center: A Research Powerhouse**

Located at 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a major academic medical center and a teaching hospital. This affiliation with Penn State University often translates into access to cutting-edge research and advanced medical technologies. The Hershey Medical Center's CMS star rating is a key indicator of its performance. Again, consulting the CMS Hospital Compare website for the most recent data is crucial.

The Hershey Medical Center's emergency department is a high-volume facility, often serving a large geographic area. ER wait times are typically available on the hospital’s website or through third-party platforms. The hospital’s emergency department is equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies, including trauma cases.

The Hershey Medical Center is renowned for its specialized centers and programs. It has nationally recognized programs in cardiology, cancer care (including the Penn State Cancer Institute), neurosurgery, and transplant services. The hospital’s website provides detailed information about its specialized centers, research initiatives, and the expertise of its medical staff.

Telehealth is a significant focus at the Hershey Medical Center. They offer a wide array of telehealth services, including virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring, and access to specialists through video consultations. The hospital actively promotes its telehealth capabilities, making it easier for patients to access care remotely.

**Community Hospitals and Alternatives**

Several smaller community hospitals are also within a reasonable driving distance of Hummelstown. These hospitals often provide a more localized approach to care, focusing on primary care, general surgery, and other essential services. Examples include hospitals in the Harrisburg area, such as UPMC Community Osteopathic and UPMC West Shore.

The CMS star ratings and ER wait times for these community hospitals are available on the CMS Hospital Compare website and through the hospitals' own websites. Their specialized services may be more limited than those offered by the larger medical centers, but they often provide convenient access to essential healthcare services.

**ER Wait Times: A Crucial Metric**

ER wait times are a critical factor for patients needing immediate medical attention. These times can vary significantly, influenced by factors such as patient volume, staffing levels, and the severity of patient conditions. Both UPMC Harrisburg and Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center provide information about their ER wait times, often updated in real-time or near real-time. Patients can also consult third-party websites and apps that aggregate ER wait time data. However, it is important to remember that these are estimates and may not always reflect individual experiences.

**Specialty Centers and Services: Meeting Specific Needs**

The availability of specialized centers and services is a crucial consideration for patients with specific medical needs. UPMC Harrisburg and Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center offer a broad range of specialized services, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and women's health. These hospitals often have dedicated centers staffed by specialists with expertise in specific medical areas. Community hospitals may offer some specialized services, but their scope may be more limited. Patients should research the specific services offered by each hospital to determine which best meets their needs.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, providing patients with convenient access to medical consultations, remote monitoring, and other services. Both UPMC Harrisburg and Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center have expanded their telehealth offerings. These services can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Patients should check the hospitals' websites for information about available telehealth services, including virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and access to specialists.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

This review provides a general overview. The "Overall Health Score" is subjective and depends on individual needs and priorities. Factors to consider include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings offer a general assessment of quality, but they are not the only factor.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are generally preferable, but the severity of the condition is paramount.
* **Specialized Services:** Access to specialized care is crucial for patients with specific medical needs.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth can improve access to care and convenience.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider reviews and feedback from other patients.
* **Proximity:** Consider the convenience of location and travel time.

**Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, consult with their primary care physicians, and research the hospitals' websites and resources. The information provided in this review is intended to aid in this process, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The CMS Hospital Compare website (Medicare.gov) is an invaluable resource for comparing hospitals and accessing quality data.