17045, Liverpool, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17045, Liverpool, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Hershey, PA (ZIP Code 17045)

Finding the right healthcare in the Hershey, PA area (ZIP code 17045) requires more than just proximity. This review provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, going beyond simple hospital listings to evaluate key performance indicators, specialty offerings, and accessibility factors. We'll examine the flagship institutions and other relevant providers, offering a comprehensive view to help you make informed decisions about your health.

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

Dominating the healthcare landscape near 17045 is the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. This sprawling facility is a Level I trauma center, offering a comprehensive range of services. Its commitment to advanced care is evident in its numerous specialty centers, including the Penn State Cancer Institute, the Penn State Heart and Vascular Institute, and the Penn State Children's Hospital.

Hershey Medical Center holds a respectable, but not perfect, rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). As of the latest available data, the hospital holds a 3-star rating. This rating is based on factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating suggests areas for improvement, it's crucial to understand the nuances. Hospitals with complex cases and a wide range of services often face different challenges than smaller facilities.

**Emergency Room Performance: A Critical Metric**

ER wait times are a critical consideration. Hershey Medical Center's ER typically experiences moderate wait times, often fluctuating depending on the time of day and patient volume. Real-time wait times are usually displayed on the hospital's website and through third-party platforms, providing valuable information for patients. The hospital has invested in initiatives to improve ER efficiency, but given its high volume, some wait times are inevitable.

**Specialty Centers and Their Impact**

The presence of specialized centers significantly enhances the healthcare options available. The Penn State Cancer Institute offers advanced cancer treatment options, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. The Heart and Vascular Institute provides comprehensive cardiac care, from preventative cardiology to complex surgeries. The Children's Hospital provides specialized pediatric care, including intensive care, surgery, and a wide range of pediatric subspecialties.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Hershey Medical Center has significantly expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual visits for various specialties. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues. Telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual visits and patient satisfaction rates, are generally positive, reflecting the growing acceptance and effectiveness of this technology.

**Other Hospitals and Healthcare Providers in the Area**

While Hershey Medical Center is the dominant player, other healthcare providers also contribute to the overall health ecosystem near 17045.

* **UPMC Harrisburg Hospital:** Located approximately 20-30 minutes from Hershey, UPMC Harrisburg Hospital offers a broad range of services, including a Level II trauma center. It's a strong option for those seeking care outside of Hershey Medical Center. CMS ratings for UPMC Harrisburg Hospital fluctuate, so it is important to check the most recent data. ER wait times are generally competitive with Hershey Medical Center.

* **Community General Osteopathic Hospital (CGOH):** CGOH, also in the Harrisburg area, provides a variety of services, focusing on osteopathic medicine principles. It's a smaller hospital but can be a good option for specific needs. CMS ratings and ER wait times vary.

* **Local Clinics and Urgent Care Centers:** Numerous clinics and urgent care centers are located in and around Hershey, providing convenient access to primary care, minor illness treatment, and basic diagnostic services. These facilities often have shorter wait times than hospital ERs, making them a good choice for non-emergency situations.

**Specialty Care Considerations**

Beyond general hospital services, the availability of specialized care is crucial.

* **Cardiology:** Both Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg Hospital offer comprehensive cardiology services, including interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, and cardiac surgery.

* **Oncology:** The Penn State Cancer Institute is a major regional resource for cancer care. Other facilities in the area also offer oncology services.

* **Orthopedics:** Hershey Medical Center and other hospitals have strong orthopedic departments, offering surgical and non-surgical treatments for musculoskeletal conditions.

* **Mental Health:** Access to mental health services is a growing concern. Hershey Medical Center and other providers offer inpatient and outpatient mental health services.

**Accessibility and Patient Experience**

Accessibility includes factors like transportation, language services, and ease of navigating the healthcare system. Hershey Medical Center offers shuttle services and is working to improve patient navigation. Language services are available to assist non-English speaking patients. Patient satisfaction surveys, available through CMS and other sources, provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

The overall health score for the 17045 area is strong, primarily due to the presence of the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. The hospital's comprehensive services, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings provide a robust healthcare infrastructure. However, the 3-star CMS rating suggests areas for improvement. ER wait times, while variable, are a factor to consider.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

* **Prioritize Hershey Medical Center for complex medical needs:** Its Level I trauma center and specialized institutes offer advanced care.
* **Consider UPMC Harrisburg Hospital for alternative options:** It provides a good range of services and can be a good choice for certain needs.
* **Utilize urgent care centers for minor illnesses:** These facilities offer convenient and often faster access to care.
* **Check real-time ER wait times before going to the ER:** This can help you manage your expectations.
* **Explore telehealth options for follow-up appointments:** This can improve convenience and access.
* **Review CMS ratings and patient satisfaction surveys:** These provide valuable insights into hospital performance and patient experience.
* **Discuss your specific needs with your primary care physician:** They can help you navigate the healthcare system and make the best choices for your health.

**Conclusion**

The healthcare landscape near 17045 offers a solid foundation of care, anchored by the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. By considering the factors discussed in this review – CMS ratings, ER wait times, specialty offerings, and accessibility – you can make informed decisions about your healthcare needs and navigate the system effectively. Regular review of updated information is recommended, as healthcare services and performance metrics are constantly evolving.