17232, Lurgan, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17232, Lurgan, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Mercersburg, PA (ZIP Code 17232)

The pursuit of quality healthcare near Mercersburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17232) reveals a landscape of options, ranging from community hospitals to regional medical centers. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to offer a comprehensive picture to residents seeking informed healthcare choices.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

Mercersburg, a small town in Franklin County, finds itself within a reasonable driving distance of several hospitals. The primary focus will be on facilities within a 30- to 60-minute radius, acknowledging that access to specialized care might necessitate travel. The hospitals considered here are the most relevant for residents of 17232 seeking a range of medical services.

**The Flagship: Chambersburg Hospital**

The most prominent hospital in the immediate vicinity is **WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital**, located in Chambersburg, approximately a 20-minute drive from Mercersburg. This hospital serves as a regional hub, offering a broad spectrum of services. Chambersburg Hospital is a significant player in the area, and its performance significantly impacts the overall health score for the region.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Key Indicator**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a readily accessible measure of quality. These ratings, based on a variety of factors including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience, are a crucial component of the Overall Health Score.

WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital currently holds a **3-star rating** from CMS. This rating, while respectable, indicates room for improvement compared to higher-rated facilities. The CMS star rating is based on data from 2023.

**Emergency Room Performance: Timeliness Matters**

Emergency room wait times are a critical concern for patients. Shorter wait times can lead to better patient outcomes and a more positive experience. Unfortunately, publicly available data on ER wait times is not always updated frequently.

While precise, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, general estimates suggest that WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital typically experiences wait times that are in line with the regional average. Patients should expect to wait, but the hospital strives to triage and treat patients based on the severity of their condition.

**Specialty Centers: Access to Expertise**

The availability of specialized care is another essential element of the Overall Health Score. Chambersburg Hospital offers a range of specialty centers, including:

* **Cardiology:** Providing diagnosis and treatment of heart conditions.
* **Oncology:** Offering cancer treatment services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
* **Orthopedics:** Specializing in musculoskeletal care, including joint replacements and sports medicine.
* **Women's Health:** Providing comprehensive services for women, including obstetrics and gynecology.

The presence of these specialty centers significantly enhances the Overall Health Score for residents of the area, reducing the need for travel to more distant facilities for specialized care.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth services are increasingly important, particularly for rural communities. WellSpan Health, the parent organization of Chambersburg Hospital, has expanded its telehealth offerings. These services include virtual visits with primary care physicians and specialists, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and behavioral health support. Telehealth capabilities improve access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

**Other Notable Hospitals: Expanding the Options**

Beyond Chambersburg, residents of 17232 have other options, though they may involve a longer drive.

**Waynesboro Hospital:** Another WellSpan facility, located in Waynesboro, is approximately a 30-minute drive. Waynesboro Hospital is a smaller community hospital that offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, and diagnostic imaging.

**Meritus Medical Center (Hagerstown, MD):** Located in Hagerstown, Maryland, approximately a 45-minute drive from Mercersburg, Meritus Medical Center is a larger regional hospital. It offers a broader range of specialized services, including a Level II trauma center and advanced cardiac care. Meritus Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.

**UPMC Carlisle (Carlisle, PA):** UPMC Carlisle is located in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, about an hour's drive from Mercersburg. This facility offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including specialized care in various fields. UPMC Carlisle has a 3-star rating from CMS.

**Comparing the Options: A Comparative Glance**

Comparing these hospitals requires a nuanced approach. Chambersburg Hospital, being the closest, offers convenience. Waynesboro Hospital provides another local option. Meritus Medical Center and UPMC Carlisle offer a broader range of specialty services but require more travel time.

**Considerations Beyond the Numbers**

The Overall Health Score is not solely based on numerical data. Other factors play a role in patient experience and overall health.

* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores, often gathered through surveys, provide insight into patient experiences. While not always directly reflected in CMS ratings, they are a vital component.
* **Community Health Needs Assessments:** Hospitals conduct community health needs assessments to identify and address local health challenges.
* **Hospital Affiliations:** The affiliations of hospitals with larger healthcare systems can influence access to resources, technology, and specialized expertise.

**Overall Health Score Assessment for the Mercersburg Area**

Based on the available data, the Overall Health Score for residents of 17232 is **moderate to good**.

* **Strengths:** The presence of WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital as a regional hub provides convenient access to a wide range of services, including specialty centers and telehealth options. The availability of other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance offers additional choices.
* **Weaknesses:** The CMS star rating for Chambersburg Hospital indicates a need for improvement. ER wait times, while not excessively long, could be improved. The need for travel to access certain specialized services, like a Level I trauma center, remains a factor.

**Recommendations for Residents**

* **Prioritize Proximity:** For routine care and emergencies, WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital is a convenient option.
* **Consider Special Needs:** For specialized care, research the specific capabilities of each hospital and factor in travel time.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Leverage telehealth options for convenient access to primary care and specialist consultations.
* **Review Patient Feedback:** Consult patient reviews and ratings to gain insights into patient experiences.
* **Stay Informed:** Keep abreast of hospital performance data and any changes in services or ratings.

**Conclusion: A Dynamic Healthcare Landscape**

The healthcare landscape near Mercersburg, PA, is dynamic. Residents have access to a range of options, from local community hospitals to regional medical centers. While Chambersburg Hospital serves as a primary hub, residents should be aware of the strengths and limitations of each facility. By considering factors like CMS ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities, residents can make informed decisions and optimize their healthcare experience. The Overall Health Score reflects the current state of healthcare access, but it is essential to stay informed and adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape.