17046, Lebanon, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17046, Lebanon, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Hershey, PA (ZIP Code 17046)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Hershey, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17046), access to quality medical care is paramount. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the hospitals serving this area, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability, to provide an overall health score assessment.

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

The cornerstone of healthcare in the region is the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a sprawling academic medical center. This hospital is a Level I trauma center, meaning it’s equipped to handle the most severe injuries and illnesses. It’s also a teaching hospital, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation. The Hershey Medical Center boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not perfect, signifies a hospital that generally performs at or above the national average in areas like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

The Hershey Medical Center’s Emergency Department (ED) is a busy hub. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, it's crucial to consider that as a Level I trauma center, the ED often prioritizes the most critical cases. However, they are actively working to improve efficiency and reduce wait times. The hospital's website and various online platforms provide estimated wait times.

**Specialty Centers: A Deep Dive**

Hershey Medical Center excels in several specialty areas. The Penn State Cancer Institute is a comprehensive cancer center, offering cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials. Their heart and vascular center is renowned for its expertise in cardiovascular care, including complex surgeries and interventional procedures. The hospital also houses a highly regarded children's hospital, Penn State Children's Hospital, providing specialized pediatric care across a wide range of disciplines. The hospital's neurosurgery program is also nationally recognized, handling complex neurological conditions.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Penn State Health has embraced telehealth, recognizing its potential to expand access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. They offer a range of telehealth services, including virtual visits with primary care physicians, specialists, and behavioral health providers. The hospital's telehealth platform allows patients to consult with doctors remotely, receive medication refills, and manage chronic conditions from the comfort of their homes. Specific statistics on telehealth utilization are available on the Penn State Health website.

**Other Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: A Broader View**

While Hershey Medical Center is the primary provider, several other healthcare facilities contribute to the overall health ecosystem in the 17046 area.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital:** Located approximately 20 miles from Hershey, UPMC Harrisburg Hospital is another major player in the region. It is a large, comprehensive hospital offering a wide range of services. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. This rating reflects its performance relative to national averages.

The Emergency Department at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital serves a significant patient population. Wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. The hospital's website and online resources offer information on current wait times.

**UPMC West Shore Hospital:** UPMC West Shore Hospital, located in Mechanicsburg, PA, is about 15 miles from Hershey. It is a community hospital that provides a variety of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized clinics. UPMC West Shore Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital:** Situated in Camp Hill, PA, approximately 15 miles from Hershey, Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital offers a range of medical services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized clinics. Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Other Healthcare Options:**

Beyond the major hospitals, the Hershey area is served by numerous outpatient clinics, urgent care centers, and specialty practices. These facilities provide convenient access to primary care, specialist consultations, and diagnostic services. The availability of these facilities helps to create a robust healthcare network, allowing residents to access care based on their specific needs.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Metric**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of hospital efficiency and patient access. While wait times fluctuate, it's essential to consider them when choosing a healthcare facility. Both Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg Hospital provide online resources with estimated wait times. These estimates are not always precise, but they can provide a general sense of the current situation.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Comparative Tool**

CMS star ratings offer a valuable tool for comparing hospitals. These ratings are based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While not a perfect measure, they provide a valuable benchmark for evaluating hospital performance. The Hershey Medical Center's 4-star rating is a positive indicator, while the 3-star ratings of UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, UPMC West Shore Hospital, and Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital reflect their performance relative to the national average.

**Specialty Centers: Meeting Specific Needs**

The presence of specialized centers is critical for patients with complex medical conditions. Hershey Medical Center's Cancer Institute, heart and vascular center, children's hospital, and neurosurgery program offer specialized care that may not be available at other facilities. This is particularly important for residents requiring advanced treatments or specialized expertise.

**Telehealth: The Future of Healthcare**

Telehealth is rapidly changing the healthcare landscape. The availability of telehealth services at Hershey Medical Center and other facilities expands access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telehealth can be a convenient option for routine check-ups, medication management, and consultations with specialists.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Based on the available data, the Hershey, PA (17046) area enjoys a strong healthcare infrastructure. The Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center serves as a flagship institution, offering a wide range of services, including advanced specialty care and a robust telehealth program. The hospital's 4-star CMS rating reflects its commitment to quality care.

The presence of UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, UPMC West Shore Hospital, and Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital provides additional options for residents, increasing access to care. While these hospitals have 3-star CMS ratings, they still offer essential services.

ER wait times are a factor to consider. While both Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg Hospital strive to provide timely care, wait times can vary. Residents should utilize online resources to check estimated wait times before visiting the ED.

The availability of specialty centers, particularly at Hershey Medical Center, is a significant advantage for residents with complex medical needs. The expansion of telehealth services further enhances access to care and provides convenient options for patients.

**Recommendations**

Residents of Hershey, PA (17046) have access to a solid healthcare system. For complex medical needs, the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is the primary choice. For routine care and less critical emergencies, UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, UPMC West Shore Hospital, and Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital offer convenient alternatives. Residents should utilize online resources to research hospitals, check wait times, and explore telehealth options. Prioritizing preventative care and maintaining a strong relationship with a primary care physician is also essential for overall health and well-being. This overall assessment indicates a favorable health score for the residents of Hershey, PA.