17252, Saint Thomas, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17252, Saint Thomas, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Waynesboro, PA (ZIP Code 17252)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Waynesboro, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17252), understanding the quality and accessibility of nearby hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth offerings. The goal is to offer a comprehensive overview to inform healthcare decisions.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Proximity**

Waynesboro, nestled in Franklin County, benefits from its proximity to several hospitals, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The primary players include Chambersburg Hospital (part of WellSpan Health), Waynesboro Hospital (also WellSpan), and, within a reasonable driving distance, Gettysburg Hospital (another WellSpan facility) and York Hospital. Further afield, but still accessible, are hospitals in Hagerstown, Maryland, and the Harrisburg area. The "Overall Health Score" will weigh the performance of these facilities, focusing on those most readily accessible to 17252 residents.

**Chambersburg Hospital: A WellSpan Flagship**

Chambersburg Hospital, located approximately 20 miles from Waynesboro, serves as a regional hub for WellSpan Health. It's a significant player, offering a broad range of services. Chambersburg Hospital holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates a facility that generally meets or exceeds national standards for quality and safety. The CMS star rating system considers factors like mortality rates, readmission rates, patient experience, and timely and effective care.

**Emergency Room Dynamics at Chambersburg**

Emergency room wait times are a critical metric. Data from CMS and other sources suggests that Chambersburg Hospital's ER wait times are generally in line with, or slightly better than, the national average. However, these times can fluctuate depending on the day, time of day, and the volume of patients. It's essential to check real-time wait times through the hospital's website or other online resources before heading to the ER.

**Specialty Services at Chambersburg**

Chambersburg Hospital boasts a range of specialized services, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. It features a comprehensive cancer center offering chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. The hospital's cardiac care program includes interventional cardiology, providing services for heart attacks and other cardiac emergencies. Orthopedic services encompass joint replacements, sports medicine, and general orthopedic procedures.

**Telehealth Integration at Chambersburg**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. WellSpan Health, including Chambersburg Hospital, has invested in telehealth infrastructure. This allows patients to access virtual appointments with physicians for certain conditions, reducing the need for in-person visits. The availability and scope of telehealth services are constantly evolving, so checking the WellSpan website for the most up-to-date information is recommended.

**Waynesboro Hospital: Serving the Local Community**

Waynesboro Hospital, located directly in the 17252 ZIP code, is a critical resource for the local community. It is also part of the WellSpan Health system. Waynesboro Hospital does not have a CMS star rating, which often reflects the size and scope of services offered. Smaller hospitals may not have the same volume of data to generate a star rating.

**Emergency Room at Waynesboro**

Waynesboro Hospital’s ER is a vital component of its services. While specific, publicly available data on ER wait times for Waynesboro Hospital can be limited, it is generally considered to be more accessible than larger regional hospitals. It is important to note that ER wait times can vary.

**Specialty Services at Waynesboro**

Waynesboro Hospital offers a range of services tailored to the local community's needs. These include primary care, surgical services, and diagnostic imaging. It also provides rehabilitation services, including physical therapy and occupational therapy. The hospital focuses on providing convenient access to essential healthcare services.

**Telehealth at Waynesboro**

Waynesboro Hospital, as part of the WellSpan system, offers telehealth options. These virtual appointments are available for certain specialties and follow-up care. The hospital’s website provides details on available telehealth services.

**Gettysburg Hospital: A WellSpan Option**

Gettysburg Hospital, approximately 30 miles from Waynesboro, is another WellSpan facility. Gettysburg Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. This rating indicates a standard of care similar to Chambersburg Hospital.

**Emergency Room at Gettysburg**

Gettysburg Hospital’s ER services are a key component of its care. Wait times are typically available online, but can vary.

**Specialty Services at Gettysburg**

Gettysburg Hospital offers a range of specialty services. These include cardiology, orthopedics, and a comprehensive cancer center.

**Telehealth at Gettysburg**

Gettysburg Hospital, as part of the WellSpan system, has telehealth options.

**York Hospital: Expanding the Options**

York Hospital, located further afield, is another option for residents of 17252. It is not part of the WellSpan system. York Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Emergency Room at York**

York Hospital's ER provides care for a large population. Wait times can vary, and are typically available online.

**Specialty Services at York**

York Hospital offers a comprehensive range of specialty services, including cardiology, neurology, and surgical services.

**Telehealth at York**

York Hospital offers telehealth options.

**Hospitals in Hagerstown, MD: Cross-Border Considerations**

For some Waynesboro residents, hospitals in Hagerstown, Maryland, may be accessible. These include Meritus Medical Center. Meritus Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Overall Health Score: A Comparative Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" considers several factors. Chambersburg Hospital, with its 3-star CMS rating and comprehensive services, scores highly. Its proximity to Waynesboro and its broad range of specialties make it a strong choice for many healthcare needs. Waynesboro Hospital, being directly in the 17252 ZIP code, offers convenient access to essential services. Gettysburg Hospital, also with a 3-star rating, is another solid option. York Hospital and Meritus Medical Center, while further away, provide additional choices and specialty services.

**Key Considerations for Waynesboro Residents**

* **Proximity:** Waynesboro Hospital offers the most immediate access. Chambersburg Hospital is a short drive away.
* **Specialty Needs:** Consider the specific medical needs. Chambersburg Hospital and York Hospital offer a wider range of specialized services.
* **ER Wait Times:** Check real-time wait times online before visiting the ER.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Utilize telehealth options for convenient consultations and follow-up appointments.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** While not the only indicator of quality, CMS star ratings provide a valuable benchmark.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

The healthcare landscape near Waynesboro, PA, offers a variety of options. Chambersburg Hospital and Waynesboro Hospital, as part of the WellSpan Health system, provide a strong foundation of care. Gettysburg Hospital and York Hospital offer additional choices. By considering the factors outlined in this review, residents of 17252 can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs, choosing the facilities that best align with their individual circumstances.