17110, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17110, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 17110

This review assesses the overall health landscape for residents near the 17110 ZIP code, focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services. The analysis incorporates data from various sources, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and publicly available health reports. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare options available in the area.

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

The Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located in Hershey, PA, is a major player in the region's healthcare ecosystem. As a flagship facility, it boasts a five-star CMS rating, reflecting high performance across various quality metrics. This rating indicates a commitment to patient safety, effective clinical care, and positive patient experiences. Hershey Medical Center is a teaching hospital, contributing to the training of future healthcare professionals and fostering a culture of innovation.

**Specialized Care at Hershey**

Hershey Medical Center houses several specialized centers, including the Penn State Cancer Institute, which offers comprehensive cancer treatment and research. The hospital's Heart and Vascular Institute provides advanced cardiovascular care, including complex surgeries and interventional procedures. The Children's Hospital at Hershey Medical Center offers specialized pediatric services, ensuring comprehensive care for young patients. Hershey also has a robust transplant program, performing various organ transplants.

**Accessibility and Telehealth at Hershey**

Hershey Medical Center recognizes the importance of accessibility. They have implemented a telehealth program, allowing patients to access healthcare services remotely, which is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and consultations. This expands access to care, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The hospital also has a strong presence in the community with several outpatient clinics and primary care practices, extending its reach and making healthcare more convenient.

**Emergency Room Performance at Hershey**

Emergency room wait times are a critical indicator of hospital efficiency. While specific real-time wait times fluctuate, Hershey Medical Center generally aims to keep wait times reasonable. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours. It is advisable to check the hospital's website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information.

**UPMC Harrisburg: A Regional Hub**

UPMC Harrisburg, located in Harrisburg, PA, is another significant healthcare provider in the area. While it doesn't have a CMS star rating, it is still a large and comprehensive hospital. UPMC Harrisburg provides a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized medical treatments.

**Specialized Services at UPMC Harrisburg**

UPMC Harrisburg offers specialized services, including a comprehensive cardiac care program. The hospital also has a dedicated cancer center, providing cancer patients with advanced treatments and support services. UPMC Harrisburg has a strong focus on women's health, offering a full spectrum of services, from obstetrics to gynecological care.

**Accessibility and Telehealth at UPMC Harrisburg**

UPMC Harrisburg is committed to improving access to care. They have multiple outpatient clinics and primary care practices in the area, making it easier for patients to receive care close to home. They also offer telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely.

**Emergency Room Performance at UPMC Harrisburg**

Like Hershey Medical Center, UPMC Harrisburg's emergency room wait times vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times and are encouraged to check the hospital's website or call ahead for the most current information.

**Other Hospitals in the Area**

Several other hospitals and healthcare facilities serve the 17110 area. These include smaller community hospitals and specialty clinics. The quality and scope of services offered by these facilities vary. Residents should research these facilities to determine if they meet their specific healthcare needs.

**Holy Spirit Hospital**

Holy Spirit Hospital, located in Camp Hill, PA, is part of the UPMC system. It offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized medical treatments. While Holy Spirit Hospital does not have a CMS star rating, it is a well-regarded hospital in the community.

**Community General Osteopathic Hospital**

Community General Osteopathic Hospital, located in Harrisburg, PA, is another option for residents in the area. It offers a variety of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized medical treatments. It is important to research the specific services offered by this hospital to determine if they meet your healthcare needs.

**Analyzing the Data: A Comparative Overview**

Comparing the hospitals in the area reveals some key differences. Hershey Medical Center, with its five-star CMS rating, stands out for its commitment to high-quality care. UPMC Harrisburg and Holy Spirit Hospital offer a broad range of services and play a vital role in the regional healthcare network. Community General Osteopathic Hospital provides another option for residents.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Several factors should be considered when choosing a hospital. These include:

* **Specialty Services:** Does the hospital offer the specific services you need?
* **Physician Availability:** Are there specialists available to treat your specific condition?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital accept your insurance plan?
* **Location and Accessibility:** Is the hospital conveniently located and easy to access?
* **Patient Reviews:** What are other patients saying about their experiences at the hospital?
* **CMS Star Rating:** A higher CMS star rating generally indicates better quality of care.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are preferable.
* **Telehealth Options:** Telehealth can improve access to care.

**Telehealth in the 17110 Area**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery. Both Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg offer telehealth services, allowing patients to access care remotely. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations, and managing chronic conditions. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care, especially for those who live in rural areas or have mobility limitations.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Residents near the 17110 ZIP code have access to a range of healthcare options, including flagship hospitals like Hershey Medical Center and regional hubs like UPMC Harrisburg. Hershey Medical Center, with its five-star CMS rating, is a top choice for many residents. UPMC Harrisburg and Holy Spirit Hospital offer comprehensive services and are important contributors to the healthcare landscape. Community General Osteopathic Hospital provides another option.

When choosing a hospital, residents should consider their individual healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and the availability of specialized services. Emergency room wait times and telehealth options should also be taken into account. By carefully researching the available options, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they receive the best possible care. The increasing availability of telehealth services is a positive development, enhancing access to care and offering greater convenience for patients.