17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

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

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Hershey, PA (ZIP Code 17044)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can feel overwhelming. For residents of Hershey, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17044), access to quality medical care is a critical consideration. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the hospitals in the vicinity, examining key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information is intended to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

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

The cornerstone of healthcare in the region is the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located directly in Hershey. This is a large, academic medical center and a Level I trauma center, meaning it's equipped to handle the most critical and complex medical cases. The hospital boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a generally above-average performance compared to other hospitals nationally. The CMS rating considers factors such as patient outcomes, safety of care, readmission rates, and patient experience.

**Emergency Room Performance**

ER wait times are a crucial factor in assessing a hospital's responsiveness. While specific real-time wait times fluctuate, the Hershey Medical Center generally reports wait times that are comparable to or slightly better than the national average for similar-sized hospitals. Patients should expect to be triaged upon arrival, with the most critical cases receiving immediate attention. Data on average wait times is often available on the hospital's website or through online platforms like Google or Healthgrades.

**Specialty Centers: A Deep Dive**

Hershey Medical Center houses a multitude of specialized centers. The Penn State Cancer Institute is a significant resource, offering comprehensive cancer care, including advanced treatment options like radiation therapy and clinical trials. The hospital also features a robust heart and vascular center, providing services from preventative cardiology to complex surgical procedures. Furthermore, the Children's Hospital at Hershey Medical Center offers a full spectrum of pediatric care, including specialized services for children with chronic illnesses and complex medical needs. The hospital's transplant program, performing procedures like kidney and liver transplants, adds to its comprehensive offerings.

**Telehealth Integration: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Hershey Medical Center has embraced telehealth, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments across various specialties. This allows patients to access care from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. The hospital's telehealth platform supports video conferencing, secure messaging, and remote patient monitoring in some cases. The availability and scope of telehealth services are continually expanding.

**Beyond Hershey: Exploring Other Options**

While Hershey Medical Center is the primary provider, residents may also consider other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital:** Located in Harrisburg, approximately 15 miles from Hershey, UPMC Harrisburg Hospital is another major healthcare provider in the region. It holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This hospital provides a wide range of services, including a comprehensive heart and vascular institute, a cancer center, and a women's health center. ER wait times at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital can vary, and it's advisable to check real-time data online or via the hospital's website.

**UPMC Pinnacle West Shore Hospital:** Situated in Mechanicsburg, approximately 10 miles from Hershey, UPMC Pinnacle West Shore Hospital is another option. It is a smaller hospital compared to Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg. It also has a 3-star CMS rating. It offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized clinics. ER wait times can fluctuate, and it is always a good idea to check online resources for the most up-to-date information.

**Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital:** Located in Camp Hill, approximately 12 miles from Hershey, Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital is another hospital that residents may consider. It is part of the Geisinger Health System. While it is a smaller hospital than Hershey Medical Center, it offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized clinics. The hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Comparing and Contrasting: Key Considerations**

When choosing a hospital, several factors should be considered. The CMS star rating is a useful indicator of overall quality, but it's not the only factor. Consider the specific needs of the patient. Does the patient require specialized care, such as cardiac surgery or cancer treatment? If so, the Hershey Medical Center, with its comprehensive specialty centers, might be the preferred choice. Location and travel time are also important. For routine care or less critical emergencies, a closer hospital might be more convenient.

**Access to Primary Care and Specialists**

Beyond hospital care, access to primary care physicians and specialists is vital. The Hershey Medical Center has a large network of affiliated physicians, offering a wide range of primary care and specialist services. Residents should research available doctors and specialists within their insurance network. UPMC and Geisinger also have large networks of physicians in the area.

**Patient Experience: A Critical Component**

Patient experience is an increasingly important metric. CMS ratings include patient experience scores, reflecting patient satisfaction with factors like communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and cleanliness of the environment. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals provide patient reviews and ratings, offering insights into the experiences of other patients.

**The Role of Insurance and Cost**

Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs are significant considerations. Patients should verify that the hospital and physicians are within their insurance network. Healthcare costs can vary significantly, so it's important to understand the potential costs of care before receiving treatment. Hospitals are required to provide information about their pricing, and patients can request estimates for services.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care: The Future of Healthcare**

The use of telehealth is growing. Hershey Medical Center, UPMC, and Geisinger are all expanding their telehealth offerings. Telehealth can provide convenient access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. Patients should inquire about telehealth options when scheduling appointments.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

For residents of Hershey, PA (17044), the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is the leading healthcare provider, offering a wide range of services, including a Level I trauma center, a comprehensive cancer institute, and a robust heart and vascular center. Its 4-star CMS rating indicates a commitment to quality care. However, residents should also consider other hospitals in the area, such as UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, UPMC Pinnacle West Shore Hospital, and Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital, depending on their specific needs and preferences. Access to primary care physicians and specialists, patient experience, insurance coverage, and the availability of telehealth services are all important factors to consider when making healthcare decisions. ER wait times should be checked on the hospitals' websites. By considering all of these factors, residents can make informed choices and access the best possible healthcare for their needs.