17262, Spring Run, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17262, Spring Run, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Waynesboro, PA (ZIP Code 17262)

Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Franklin County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Residents of the 17262 ZIP code have access to a range of hospitals, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities, to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**The Big Players: UPMC and WellSpan**

The dominant healthcare providers in the region are UPMC and WellSpan. Both systems offer a network of hospitals and clinics, providing a broad spectrum of services. Their proximity to Waynesboro significantly impacts the healthcare options available to residents.

**UPMC Carlisle:** Located approximately 25 miles northeast of Waynesboro, UPMC Carlisle is a key player in the UPMC network. While not directly in the immediate vicinity, its accessibility is a factor for residents. UPMC Carlisle currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and timely and effective care. Emergency room wait times at UPMC Carlisle fluctuate, but generally average around 45-60 minutes. The hospital boasts specialized centers, including cardiology and orthopedics. Telehealth services are available, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital:** A more immediate option for Waynesboro residents, WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital is situated approximately 15 miles west. This hospital is a cornerstone of the WellSpan Health system and provides a comprehensive range of services. CMS has awarded WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital a 3-star rating. Emergency room wait times are typically in the 30-45 minute range, making it a relatively accessible option for urgent care needs. WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital features specialized centers for cancer care, cardiac care, and women's health. Telehealth services are integrated into its offerings, including virtual urgent care and specialty consultations.

**Smaller Community Hospitals and Their Roles**

Beyond the large systems, several smaller hospitals and medical centers play a crucial role in serving the healthcare needs of the region. These facilities often offer a more localized approach and may specialize in specific areas of care.

**Waynesboro Hospital (WellSpan):** Located directly in Waynesboro, this hospital is a critical access point for the 17262 ZIP code. As part of the WellSpan system, it provides convenient access to a range of services. While it doesn't have a separate CMS star rating, it benefits from the resources and quality standards of the WellSpan system. Emergency room wait times are generally shorter than larger hospitals, often under 30 minutes. Waynesboro Hospital focuses on primary care, emergency services, and outpatient procedures. It offers a connection to the broader WellSpan telehealth network, providing access to virtual consultations.

**Gettysburg Hospital (WellSpan):** Another WellSpan facility within reasonable driving distance, Gettysburg Hospital is located approximately 25 miles east of Waynesboro. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized clinics. It doesn't have a separate CMS star rating. Emergency room wait times are variable, but typically average around 40-50 minutes. Gettysburg Hospital has specialized services in areas like behavioral health and rehabilitation. Telehealth services are available, connecting patients with specialists and providing virtual follow-up care.

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

Emergency room wait times are a significant factor in evaluating a hospital's efficiency and accessibility. While these times can fluctuate based on patient volume and the severity of cases, they provide a general indicator of the speed with which patients can receive care. Shorter wait times are generally preferable, as they can reduce patient anxiety and facilitate quicker treatment.

**Specialty Centers: Tailoring Care to Specific Needs**

The availability of specialized centers is crucial for patients with specific medical conditions. These centers often house advanced technology, experienced specialists, and tailored treatment programs.

**Cardiology:** Both UPMC Carlisle and WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital offer cardiology services. These centers provide diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation programs.

**Oncology:** WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital has a dedicated cancer center, offering comprehensive cancer care, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology.

**Orthopedics:** UPMC Carlisle and WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital both have orthopedic departments, providing services for bone and joint injuries, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal conditions.

**Women's Health:** WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital features a women's health center, providing gynecological care, obstetrics, and mammography services.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. It allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists.

**UPMC:** UPMC offers telehealth services through its network, including virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring programs.

**WellSpan:** WellSpan has integrated telehealth into its system, providing virtual urgent care, specialty consultations, and remote patient monitoring.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Snapshot of Quality**

CMS star ratings provide a standardized measure of hospital quality, based on a variety of metrics. These ratings are a useful tool for patients to compare hospitals and assess their overall performance. However, it's important to remember that these ratings are just one piece of the puzzle and should be considered alongside other factors, such as personal preferences and the specific needs of the patient.

**Other Important Considerations**

Beyond the metrics discussed, several other factors can influence a patient's experience and the overall health score of a hospital.

**Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores, often gathered through surveys, provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided. These scores reflect patients' experiences with communication, responsiveness, and the overall care they received.

**Hospital Accreditations:** Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission or DNV GL Healthcare USA indicates that a hospital meets specific quality and safety standards.

**Physician Availability:** The availability of qualified physicians, including specialists, is critical for providing comprehensive care.

**Cost of Care:** The cost of healthcare can vary significantly between hospitals. Patients should be aware of the costs associated with their care and explore options for financial assistance if needed.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

For residents of the 17262 ZIP code, the "Overall Health Score" is influenced by several factors. WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital and Waynesboro Hospital offer the most immediate access to care, with WellSpan Chambersburg providing a broader range of specialized services. UPMC Carlisle, while further away, provides access to a different network of specialists and services. Emergency room wait times, while variable, are generally reasonable across the hospitals. Telehealth services are becoming increasingly available, improving access to care for residents.

**Recommendations:**

* **For Urgent Care:** Waynesboro Hospital and WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital offer the most accessible options for immediate medical needs.
* **For Specialized Care:** Patients requiring specialized services should research the specific capabilities of each hospital, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital and UPMC Carlisle offer robust specialty programs.
* **For Telehealth:** Explore the telehealth options offered by both UPMC and WellSpan to access virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.
* **For Overall Quality:** Consider the CMS star ratings, patient satisfaction scores, and hospital accreditations when making decisions about healthcare providers.
* **For Ongoing Care:** Establish a relationship with a primary care physician who can provide ongoing care and referrals to specialists as needed.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near Waynesboro, PA (17262) is a dynamic assessment. The best choice depends on individual needs, preferences, and the specific medical situation. Residents are encouraged to research their options, ask questions, and make informed decisions about their healthcare.