17048, Lykens, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17048, Lykens, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Hershey, PA (ZIP Code 17048)

The area surrounding Hershey, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17048) is served by a robust healthcare network, offering a range of services from primary care to specialized treatments. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, examining key factors such as hospital quality, emergency room performance, specialty centers, and telehealth availability, to help residents make informed healthcare decisions.

**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, a large academic medical center and Level I trauma center. This hospital is a significant employer and a major regional resource. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) awards hospitals a star rating based on various quality metrics. Hershey Medical Center currently holds a respectable, though not exceptional, **3-star rating** from CMS. This rating reflects its performance across areas like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. The hospital’s commitment to research and education is evident, contributing to advancements in medical care.

**Emergency Room Performance: A Critical Metric**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of a hospital's responsiveness and efficiency. Data for Hershey Medical Center shows average ER wait times, which can fluctuate depending on patient volume and severity of cases. While specific real-time data is dynamic, residents should anticipate potential wait times, especially during peak hours. The hospital's Level I trauma designation means it is equipped to handle the most critical emergencies, which can sometimes impact wait times for less urgent cases.

**Specialty Centers: Expertise in Key Areas**

Hershey Medical Center boasts several renowned specialty centers. The **Penn State Cancer Institute** provides comprehensive cancer care, including advanced treatment options and clinical trials. The **Heart and Vascular Institute** offers a full spectrum of cardiac and vascular services, from preventative care to complex surgeries. The **Children's Hospital** provides specialized pediatric care, including a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). The presence of these specialized centers significantly enhances the overall health score for the region, providing access to advanced care close to home.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services are increasingly important for healthcare access, especially in rural or underserved areas. Hershey Medical Center has invested in telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This allows patients to connect with providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits for certain conditions and follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth contributes positively to the overall health score by improving access to care and convenience.

**Nearby Alternatives: Exploring Options**

While Hershey Medical Center is the dominant provider, residents in the 17048 area have access to other healthcare options. These include smaller community hospitals and outpatient clinics.

**UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital:** Located in Harrisburg, approximately 15 miles from Hershey, UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital offers a range of services and is a significant regional hospital. It is also a Level I trauma center. The hospital's CMS star rating and ER wait times should be considered when evaluating options.

**UPMC Community Osteopathic Hospital:** Also in Harrisburg, this hospital provides a different focus, with a strong emphasis on osteopathic medicine. The hospital's CMS star rating and ER wait times should be considered when evaluating options.

**Outpatient Clinics and Urgent Care:** Numerous outpatient clinics and urgent care centers are located in and around Hershey. These facilities offer convenient access to primary care, minor illness treatment, and diagnostic services. They can be valuable alternatives to the ER for less urgent medical needs.

**Data Limitations and Considerations:**

It is important to acknowledge the limitations of this review. Hospital quality data, such as CMS star ratings, is based on historical data and may not fully reflect current performance. ER wait times can fluctuate significantly. Patient experience is subjective. Residents should always consult with their primary care physician and consider their individual healthcare needs when making decisions about where to seek care.

**Assessing the Overall Health Score**

The overall health score for the 17048 area is strong, driven by the presence of a major academic medical center, specialized centers, and a network of supporting healthcare providers. The Hershey Medical Center, with its Level I trauma center and comprehensive services, is a significant asset. The availability of telehealth services further enhances access to care. The presence of nearby hospitals, such as UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital, provides additional options and competition, which can drive improvements in quality and service.

**Areas for Improvement:**

While the overall health score is positive, there are areas where the healthcare system could improve. Reducing ER wait times at Hershey Medical Center would be beneficial. Expanding telehealth services and promoting their utilization could further improve access to care, especially for those in rural areas. Continued investment in preventative care and community health initiatives would also contribute to a healthier population.

**Conclusion: A Positive Outlook**

Residents of the 17048 area are fortunate to have access to a robust healthcare system. The presence of Hershey Medical Center, with its specialized centers and commitment to research, provides a high level of care. The availability of alternative providers and telehealth services further enhances the overall health score. While there is always room for improvement, the healthcare landscape in and around Hershey is well-equipped to meet the needs of its residents. The overall health score for the area is **Good**, reflecting the quality of care, access to services, and the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare delivery.