17061, Millersburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17061, Millersburg, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Lebanon, PA (ZIP Code 17061)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an in-depth look at the hospitals serving the Lebanon, Pennsylvania area (ZIP Code 17061), evaluating their overall health scores based on a range of factors. We'll examine CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, telehealth offerings, and other critical data points to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Proximity**

The primary hospitals serving the 17061 ZIP code are concentrated within a relatively close radius. This provides residents with choices, but also necessitates a careful comparison of each facility's strengths and weaknesses. The most prominent hospitals in the region include: WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital, located directly in Lebanon, and Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a short drive away. Other facilities, such as Reading Hospital, are within a reasonable driving distance and may be considered depending on specific needs.

**WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital: A Deep Dive**

WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital, the most immediate option for residents of 17061, is a critical access hospital. This designation, while not directly impacting quality of care, reflects the hospital's commitment to serving a rural community and its financial structure. While the CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star ratings are a crucial indicator of overall quality, it's important to note that critical access hospitals are not always rated the same way as larger facilities.

Data regarding WellSpan Good Samaritan's CMS star rating requires recent updates. The CMS star rating system evaluates hospitals on a scale of one to five stars, with five being the highest. The evaluation encompasses various factors, including patient experience, readmission rates, safety of care, and effectiveness of care. Without a current CMS star rating, it is difficult to directly compare WellSpan Good Samaritan to other hospitals in the region.

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for many patients. While specific real-time data fluctuates, it's important to consult up-to-date resources like the hospital's website or third-party platforms like Google Maps to get an estimate of current wait times. Shorter wait times often indicate efficient operations and can be a crucial factor in emergency situations.

WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital offers a range of specialty services. These include cardiology, orthopedics, and surgical services. Detailed information on specific programs and physician availability can be found on the hospital's website. Understanding the scope of these services is essential for matching your healthcare needs with the hospital's capabilities.

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in modern healthcare. WellSpan Health, the parent organization of Good Samaritan, likely offers telehealth options. These services allow patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, which can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and mental health services. Check the WellSpan Health website for details on available telehealth services, including the types of appointments offered and the technology used.

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

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located in Hershey, PA, is a major regional medical center and a teaching hospital. It typically receives a CMS star rating, reflecting its performance across various quality metrics. The most recent CMS star rating should be reviewed to understand its overall standing. A higher star rating generally indicates a higher level of quality and patient satisfaction.

Emergency room wait times at Hershey Medical Center can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Checking real-time wait time estimates on the hospital's website or through online platforms is recommended. Given its larger size and broader service offerings, the Hershey Medical Center may experience longer wait times than smaller facilities.

Hershey Medical Center boasts a comprehensive array of specialty centers and programs. These include a renowned cancer institute, a heart and vascular institute, a children's hospital, and specialized centers for neurology, orthopedics, and other medical disciplines. The breadth of these services makes it a valuable resource for complex medical needs.

Telehealth is a significant component of Hershey Medical Center's service offerings. They likely provide a wide range of telehealth options, including virtual appointments with specialists, remote monitoring programs, and online patient portals. Check the Penn State Health website for information on telehealth services, including the types of appointments available, the technology used, and any associated costs.

**Reading Hospital: A Broader Perspective**

Reading Hospital, located in Reading, PA, is another option within a reasonable driving distance of 17061. It's a large regional hospital with a broad range of services. The hospital's CMS star rating should be consulted to assess its overall quality performance.

Emergency room wait times at Reading Hospital should be checked using online resources. As with other hospitals, wait times can fluctuate, so it's crucial to obtain the most current information.

Reading Hospital offers a comprehensive range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and surgical services. Their website provides detailed information about specific programs and physician availability.

Telehealth services are likely available at Reading Hospital. Check their website for information on virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and other telehealth offerings.

**Other Considerations: Beyond the Big Hospitals**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, residents should consider other healthcare providers in the area. These include urgent care centers, outpatient clinics, and specialized practices. These facilities can provide convenient access to care for less acute conditions and can often offer lower wait times than emergency rooms.

**Access to Specialists: A Critical Factor**

The availability of specialists is a crucial factor in evaluating a hospital's overall health score. Access to cardiologists, oncologists, neurologists, and other specialists is essential for providing comprehensive care. Review the hospital websites and consult your primary care physician to determine which hospitals have the specialists you need.

**Patient Experience: The Human Element**

Patient experience is a critical component of overall health. This includes factors such as communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness to patient needs, and the overall cleanliness and comfort of the facility. Patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience at each hospital.

**Financial Considerations: Insurance and Costs**

Healthcare costs can be a significant burden. Before receiving care, verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan. Discuss the potential costs of treatment with your insurance provider and the hospital's billing department. Understand the potential for out-of-pocket expenses, such as deductibles and co-pays.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital is a personal decision. This review provides a framework for evaluating the hospitals near 17061, based on factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. By gathering this information and considering your individual healthcare needs, you can make an informed decision that best suits your circumstances. Remember to consult the most up-to-date information available on hospital websites and other reliable sources. It's always best to consult with your primary care physician for recommendations tailored to your specific needs.