17072, New Kingstown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17072, New Kingstown, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 17072 (Mechanicsburg, PA)

Finding the right healthcare can be a complex undertaking. This review provides an overview of the hospitals serving the Mechanicsburg, PA (ZIP Code 17072) area, focusing on key metrics to help you assess their overall health and suitability for your needs. We'll delve into factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings, offering a fact-rich perspective to inform your healthcare decisions.

**The Landscape: Major Players and Proximity**

Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, is strategically located, offering residents access to a range of hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. The dominant healthcare providers in the region include UPMC, Penn State Health, and WellSpan Health, each with a network of hospitals and affiliated facilities. Proximity to Harrisburg and Hershey further expands the options, providing access to specialized care and advanced medical technologies.

**UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg: A Flagship Institution**

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg, located in Harrisburg, is a significant healthcare provider for the Mechanicsburg area. As a flagship hospital, it offers a comprehensive range of services. The hospital's CMS star rating is a key indicator of its overall quality. While CMS star ratings can fluctuate, understanding the current rating is crucial. This rating considers factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. Researching the most current rating on the CMS Hospital Compare website is essential.

**Emergency Room Performance: A Critical Metric**

ER wait times are a critical factor for many patients. UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg's ER wait times should be carefully considered. Data on average wait times, from the time a patient arrives to when they see a provider, is readily available. This information is often posted on the hospital's website or accessible through online resources like ProPublica's Hospital Compare tool. Shorter wait times can be indicative of efficient operations and a focus on patient flow.

**Specialty Centers: Expertise in Specific Areas**

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg boasts several specialty centers. These centers provide focused care in areas like cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. For example, the hospital's heart and vascular institute offers advanced cardiac care, including interventional procedures and surgical interventions. The cancer center provides comprehensive cancer treatment, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. The orthopedic center offers a range of services, from joint replacements to sports medicine. Investigating the specific services offered by these centers is crucial for patients needing specialized care.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in recent years. UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg, like many modern hospitals, offers telehealth services. These services can include virtual consultations with physicians, remote monitoring of patients, and access to educational resources. Exploring the availability of telehealth options is particularly relevant for patients with mobility issues, those in rural areas, or those seeking convenient access to care.

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

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located in Hershey, is another major player in the region. As a tertiary care center, it offers a high level of specialized care and advanced medical technology. The hospital's CMS star rating is another crucial data point. Similar to UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg, the latest rating should be verified on the CMS Hospital Compare website.

**ER Wait Times at Hershey Medical Center**

ER wait times at Hershey Medical Center are another key consideration. Patients should research and compare the average wait times at Hershey Medical Center with those of other nearby hospitals. This information can be found through various online resources and hospital websites.

**Specialty Centers at Hershey Medical Center**

Hershey Medical Center is renowned for its specialized services. The hospital is home to a comprehensive cancer institute, offering cutting-edge cancer treatments and research. The heart and vascular center provides advanced cardiac care, including complex surgical procedures. The children's hospital offers a wide range of pediatric services, including specialized care for critically ill children. Patients with specific medical needs should investigate the expertise and resources available at these centers.

**Telehealth at Hershey Medical Center**

Hershey Medical Center also offers telehealth services. These services can provide convenient access to healthcare, particularly for patients in remote areas or those with mobility limitations. Investigating the specific telehealth options available, such as virtual appointments and remote monitoring programs, is recommended.

**WellSpan Health: Expanding Regional Reach**

WellSpan Health also has a presence in the region, offering a network of hospitals and clinics. While not directly in Mechanicsburg, WellSpan facilities in nearby communities provide additional healthcare options.

**WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital: A Local Option**

WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital, located in Lebanon, is a nearby hospital that may be a viable option for some residents of Mechanicsburg. Researching the hospital's CMS star rating, ER wait times, and available specialty services is crucial.

**Other Considerations: Patient Experience and Hospital Safety**

Beyond the specific metrics discussed above, other factors contribute to a hospital's overall health score. Patient experience is a key consideration. Patient satisfaction surveys, available on the CMS Hospital Compare website and other platforms, provide insights into patients' perceptions of their care. Hospital safety is also paramount. Information on hospital-acquired infections, medication errors, and other safety measures is often publicly available.

**Access to Information: Utilizing Online Resources**

Several online resources can help you gather the information needed to make informed healthcare decisions. The CMS Hospital Compare website is an invaluable resource for accessing hospital ratings, wait times, and patient experience data. ProPublica's Hospital Compare tool provides additional data and analysis. Hospital websites offer detailed information on services, physicians, and patient resources.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital is a personal decision. This review provides a framework for evaluating hospitals near Mechanicsburg, PA (ZIP Code 17072). By considering CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth offerings, and patient experience, you can make an informed choice that best suits your healthcare needs. Remember to regularly check the latest data and information, as healthcare landscapes and hospital performance can change. Consulting with your primary care physician is always recommended when making decisions about your healthcare.