17214, Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17214, Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Chambersburg, PA (ZIP Code 17214)

Navigating healthcare can feel like traversing a complex maze. Understanding the quality and accessibility of hospitals near you is crucial for making informed decisions about your health. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the hospitals serving the Chambersburg, PA (ZIP Code 17214) area, focusing on key metrics like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth offerings. The goal is to offer a clear, fact-based picture to empower residents with the information they need.

**Defining the Scope:**

The primary hospitals considered in this review are those located within a reasonable driving distance of Chambersburg, PA, and which commonly serve residents of the 17214 ZIP code. This includes hospitals in Chambersburg itself, as well as those in nearby towns like Gettysburg and Harrisburg. The analysis draws on publicly available data from sources such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reputable healthcare information providers.

**Quality Ratings: The CMS Star System and Beyond**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a readily understandable snapshot of overall quality. These ratings are based on a range of factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While not a perfect measure, the CMS star rating is a valuable starting point for assessing a hospital's performance.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital:**

WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, located directly in Chambersburg, is a key provider for the local community. Unfortunately, at the time of this review, the hospital's CMS star rating is unavailable. This absence of a rating doesn't necessarily indicate poor quality, but it does mean that the hospital's performance in the areas assessed by CMS is not currently being publicly quantified. WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital is a 212-bed facility and is a Level III Trauma Center.

**UPMC Carlisle:**

UPMC Carlisle, while not directly in Chambersburg, is another hospital that often serves residents of the 17214 area. UPMC Carlisle has a 3-star CMS rating. This indicates an average level of performance compared to other hospitals nationwide. This rating should be considered alongside other factors, such as specific services and patient experiences.

**UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg:**

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg, located in Harrisburg, is a larger, more comprehensive facility that may also be a destination for residents seeking specialized care. UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Metric**

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for anyone needing immediate medical attention. The length of time spent waiting in the ER can impact patient outcomes and overall satisfaction. While precise, real-time wait times can fluctuate, general trends and average wait times provide valuable insights.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital:**

WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital's ER wait times are a crucial factor for local residents. Publicly available data often provides average wait times, which can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and overall patient volume. Checking the hospital's website or using online tools that track ER wait times can provide more up-to-date information.

**UPMC Carlisle and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg:**

Similarly, ER wait times at UPMC Carlisle and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg are important considerations. Patients should consult hospital websites or use online resources to assess the expected wait times at each facility. Longer wait times may necessitate considering alternative options, especially for non-life-threatening conditions.

**Specialty Centers and Services: Meeting Diverse Needs**

Beyond general medical care, the availability of specialized services is critical for addressing specific health needs. This includes centers for cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and other specialized areas.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital:**

WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, cancer care, and women's health. The hospital's website provides detailed information on the specific services offered, including the availability of specialists and advanced technologies. The hospital also has a comprehensive surgical program.

**UPMC Carlisle and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg:**

UPMC Carlisle and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg offer a broader range of specialized services due to their larger size and scope. UPMC Carlisle has a robust cardiac program, and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg offers advanced cancer treatment, transplant services, and a wider array of surgical specialties. Patients seeking specialized care should carefully research the specific services available at each facility.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in recent years. Virtual appointments and remote monitoring can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital:**

WellSpan Health, the parent organization of WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, has invested in telehealth services. This includes virtual visits with primary care physicians and specialists, as well as remote monitoring programs for chronic conditions. The availability of specific telehealth services may vary, so patients should check the hospital's website for details.

**UPMC Carlisle and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg:**

UPMC has also expanded its telehealth offerings. Both UPMC Carlisle and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg provide virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services. UPMC's telehealth platform allows patients to connect with providers from the comfort of their homes, improving access to care and convenience.

**Patient Experience: Beyond Numbers**

While quality ratings and wait times are important, patient experience is equally crucial. Factors like communication with healthcare providers, the cleanliness of the facility, and the overall level of care contribute to a patient's experience.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital:**

Patient feedback on WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital can be found through online reviews and patient satisfaction surveys. These sources provide valuable insights into the experiences of other patients.

**UPMC Carlisle and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg:**

Similarly, patient reviews and satisfaction surveys provide valuable information about the patient experience at UPMC Carlisle and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg. Reviewing these sources can help patients assess the quality of care and the overall experience at each facility.

**Access to Care: Insurance and Financial Considerations**

Understanding insurance coverage and financial assistance options is essential for accessing healthcare services. Hospitals typically accept a variety of insurance plans and offer financial assistance programs for patients who qualify.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital:**

WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital accepts a wide range of insurance plans. Patients should verify their insurance coverage before receiving care. The hospital also offers financial assistance programs for eligible patients.

**UPMC Carlisle and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg:**

UPMC facilities also accept a broad spectrum of insurance plans. Patients should confirm their coverage with their insurance provider and the hospital. UPMC also provides financial assistance programs to help patients manage healthcare costs.

**Community Health Needs and Resources:**

Understanding the health needs of the Chambersburg community is essential for assessing the overall healthcare landscape. This includes considering factors such as chronic disease prevalence, access to preventive care, and social determinants of health.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital:**

WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital participates in community health needs assessments, which identify the most pressing health concerns in the area. The hospital also partners with local organizations to address these needs.

**UPMC Carlisle and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg:**

UPMC also conducts community health needs assessments in the areas they serve. These assessments help the hospitals tailor their services to meet the specific needs of the community.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

Assessing the hospitals near Chambersburg, PA (ZIP Code 17214) reveals a healthcare landscape with both strengths and areas for consideration. WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital provides essential services directly in the community, while UPMC Carlisle and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg offer a broader range of specialized care.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital:** Offers essential local services, including a Level III Trauma Center, and a range of specialty services. The lack of a CMS star rating is a notable factor.

**UPMC Carlisle:** Provides a 3-star CMS rating and a range of services, including a cardiac program, but is not directly in Chambersburg.

**UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg:** Offers a 3-star CMS rating and a broader range of specialized services, including advanced cancer treatment and transplant services, but is located further away.

**Recommendations:**

Residents of the 17214 ZIP code should consider the following when choosing a hospital:

* **Specific Needs:** Prioritize hospitals that offer the specific services required.
* **Wait Times:** Consider ER wait times, especially for urgent medical needs.
* **Quality Ratings:** Use CMS star ratings as a starting point, but also consider other factors like patient reviews.
* **Proximity:** Factor in the distance to each hospital, considering travel time and convenience.
* **Insurance:** Verify insurance coverage with each hospital.
* **Telehealth:** Explore telehealth options for convenient access to care.

This review provides a snapshot of the healthcare options available near Chambersburg, PA. Patients are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their health. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, so staying informed is essential for navigating the complexities of the healthcare system.