17075, Newton Hamilton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17075, Newton Hamilton, Pennsylvania is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Palmyra, PA (ZIP Code 17075)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can feel daunting. This review provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment of hospitals within a reasonable radius of Palmyra, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17075), offering insights into their strengths, weaknesses, and key performance indicators. This is not a ranking, but a comprehensive overview to help residents make informed decisions.

**Hershey Medical Center: The Flagship**

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located in Hershey, PA, stands as the region's flagship hospital. It boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), a testament to its overall quality of care. This rating considers factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Hershey Medical Center is a Level I trauma center, equipped to handle the most critical emergencies.

The hospital’s emergency room (ER) experiences, while variable, are generally reported to have wait times that can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the severity of cases. The hospital publishes average ER wait times, which are readily available online. Hershey Medical Center is known for its extensive specialty centers. The Penn State Cancer Institute offers comprehensive cancer care, including advanced treatment options and clinical trials. The hospital also houses specialized centers for heart and vascular care, neurosciences, and women's health.

Hershey Medical Center has significantly invested in telehealth services. They offer virtual visits for a wide range of specialties, including primary care, cardiology, and behavioral health. Telehealth appointments are often available for follow-up care and consultations, providing convenient access to specialists.

**WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital: Community Focus**

WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital in Lebanon, PA, is another key healthcare provider in the area. It has a 3-star CMS rating. Good Samaritan Hospital is a community hospital offering a broad range of services.

ER wait times at Good Samaritan are generally reported to be shorter than those at Hershey Medical Center, though this can vary. The hospital focuses on providing timely care in its emergency department. The hospital offers specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and a comprehensive women's health center.

Good Samaritan Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly for chronic disease management and behavioral health. Virtual appointments are available for patients needing ongoing care.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital: Broadening the Options**

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, located in Harrisburg, PA, provides another option for residents. It has a 3-star CMS rating. This hospital offers a wide array of services and is a major regional provider.

ER wait times at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital are comparable to those at other regional hospitals. The hospital publishes its average ER wait times. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital houses a comprehensive cancer center, offering radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology services. It also has specialized centers for heart care, orthopedics, and neurology.

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital has a robust telehealth program, including virtual visits for primary care, specialist consultations, and mental health services. They are actively expanding their telehealth platform.

**Other Important Considerations: Specialty Centers and Outpatient Facilities**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several specialized centers and outpatient facilities contribute to the overall healthcare ecosystem near Palmyra.

**Orthopedic Care:** Several orthopedic practices and outpatient facilities provide specialized care for musculoskeletal issues. These facilities often offer physical therapy, sports medicine, and surgical interventions.

**Cardiology:** Cardiology practices are prevalent, offering diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation.

**Cancer Care:** In addition to the cancer centers at Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, outpatient cancer centers provide chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care services.

**Behavioral Health:** Access to mental health services is crucial. Several mental health clinics and outpatient facilities offer therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care.

**Rehabilitation Services:** Rehabilitation centers provide physical, occupational, and speech therapy to help patients recover from injuries, illnesses, or surgeries.

**Factors Influencing the Overall Health Score**

The “Overall Health Score” is not a single number but a composite assessment based on multiple factors.

**CMS Star Ratings:** The CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality, considering patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Higher ratings indicate better overall performance.

**ER Wait Times:** Long ER wait times can be a significant source of stress and can delay critical care. Shorter wait times are generally preferred.

**Specialty Centers:** The availability of specialized centers for cardiology, cancer care, orthopedics, and other specialties ensures that residents have access to advanced medical expertise.

**Telehealth Services:** Telehealth offers convenient access to healthcare, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. Robust telehealth programs enhance the overall healthcare experience.

**Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews provide insights into the patient experience, including communication, responsiveness, and overall satisfaction.

**Accessibility:** The proximity of hospitals and healthcare facilities to Palmyra is a crucial factor. Easy access to care reduces travel time and improves convenience.

**Cost of Care:** While this review does not delve into specific costs, it is important to consider the affordability of healthcare services. Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket expenses should be factored into decision-making.

**Specific Considerations for Palmyra Residents**

Residents of Palmyra, PA, have a range of healthcare options within a reasonable driving distance. Hershey Medical Center, with its Level I trauma center and comprehensive specialty centers, is a major draw. WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital and UPMC Harrisburg Hospital offer additional options with their own strengths.

**Travel Time:** The distance to these hospitals is generally manageable. Hershey Medical Center is the closest major hospital, with a relatively short commute.

**Specialty Needs:** Residents with specific healthcare needs, such as cancer treatment or cardiac care, should consider the specialized centers available at each hospital.

**Insurance Coverage:** It is essential to verify that the hospitals and providers are within your insurance network.

**Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital and healthcare provider is a personal decision. Residents of Palmyra should consider their individual healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and preferences.

**Recommendations:**

* **Research:** Conduct thorough research on each hospital, considering their CMS ratings, ER wait times, and specialty services.
* **Consult with Your Primary Care Physician:** Seek advice from your primary care physician, who can provide personalized recommendations.
* **Consider Telehealth:** Explore the telehealth options offered by each hospital for convenient access to care.
* **Read Patient Reviews:** Consult online reviews to gain insights into patient experiences.
* **Prioritize Your Needs:** Determine your specific healthcare needs and choose a hospital that offers the appropriate services.

By carefully considering these factors, residents of Palmyra can make informed decisions about their healthcare and access the quality care they deserve. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, so it is essential to stay informed and adapt to new developments.