17702, Williamsport, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17702, Williamsport, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Williamsport, PA (ZIP Code 17702)

Choosing the right hospital is a critical decision, especially when faced with a health crisis. For residents of the Williamsport, PA area (ZIP Code 17702), several healthcare options are available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities, to help you navigate the local healthcare landscape.

**The Flagship: UPMC Williamsport Hospital**

UPMC Williamsport Hospital, formerly known as Williamsport Regional Medical Center, is the dominant healthcare provider in the region. It's the flagship facility, serving as a regional hub for specialized care. Unfortunately, at the time of this review, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has not assigned a star rating to UPMC Williamsport Hospital. This lack of a rating makes it difficult to compare its overall quality to other hospitals using this standardized metric. However, this does not necessarily mean the hospital is deficient. It could be due to various factors, including data collection timing or specific CMS criteria.

UPMC Williamsport boasts a comprehensive range of services. It houses a Level II Trauma Center, crucial for handling serious injuries and emergencies. This designation signifies the hospital's ability to provide immediate and specialized care for trauma patients. The hospital also features a dedicated heart and vascular institute, offering advanced cardiology services, including interventional procedures and cardiac rehabilitation.

**Emergency Room Dynamics: UPMC Williamsport**

ER wait times are a significant concern for patients. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, UPMC Williamsport Hospital generally reports wait times that are in line with or slightly above the national average. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. The hospital's website and online resources often provide estimated wait times, allowing patients to make informed decisions.

**Specialty Centers and Services: UPMC Williamsport**

Beyond its trauma and cardiology services, UPMC Williamsport offers a wide array of specialty centers. These include a comprehensive cancer center, providing advanced treatments like radiation therapy and chemotherapy. It also has a robust women's health program, encompassing obstetrics, gynecology, and specialized services like mammography and breast cancer treatment. UPMC Williamsport also houses a rehabilitation center, assisting patients in recovering from injuries and illnesses through physical, occupational, and speech therapy.

**Telehealth Presence: UPMC Williamsport**

UPMC has significantly invested in telehealth services, extending its reach beyond the physical hospital walls. Patients can access virtual consultations with physicians, receive remote monitoring for chronic conditions, and participate in online support groups. Telehealth options are particularly valuable for residents in rural areas, providing access to specialists without the need for extensive travel. UPMC's telehealth platform offers a variety of services, including virtual urgent care, allowing patients to receive immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions.

**Competing Options: Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital**

Approximately 20 miles from Williamsport, Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital presents an alternative for residents. While smaller than UPMC Williamsport, Geisinger Jersey Shore offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and primary care. The hospital's CMS star rating is not available at the time of this review.

**Emergency Room Dynamics: Geisinger Jersey Shore**

ER wait times at Geisinger Jersey Shore are generally shorter than those at UPMC Williamsport. However, it's important to note that wait times can fluctuate depending on the volume of patients and the severity of their conditions. Patients should always call ahead or check online resources for the most up-to-date information.

**Specialty Centers and Services: Geisinger Jersey Shore**

Geisinger Jersey Shore offers a more limited range of specialty services compared to UPMC Williamsport. However, it provides essential services like general surgery, orthopedics, and cardiology. The hospital also has a dedicated labor and delivery unit, catering to the needs of expectant mothers.

**Telehealth Presence: Geisinger Jersey Shore**

Geisinger has also expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. These services are particularly beneficial for patients who live in remote areas or have difficulty traveling to appointments. Geisinger's telehealth platform includes options for virtual primary care visits, specialist consultations, and behavioral health services.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Facilities and Outpatient Clinics**

Beyond the main hospitals, the Williamsport area has several smaller facilities and outpatient clinics. These include urgent care centers, primary care physician offices, and specialized clinics. These facilities can provide convenient access to healthcare services for routine medical needs.

**Analyzing the Data: Overall Health Score Assessment**

Without a CMS star rating for either UPMC Williamsport or Geisinger Jersey Shore, it's difficult to provide a definitive "Overall Health Score" based solely on this metric. However, a comprehensive assessment must consider other factors.

**UPMC Williamsport's Strengths:** The hospital's Level II Trauma Center is a significant advantage, offering critical care for severe injuries. The comprehensive range of specialty services, including cardiology, cancer care, and women's health, makes it a regional hub for complex medical needs. Its robust telehealth program provides convenient access to care.

**UPMC Williamsport's Weaknesses:** The lack of a CMS star rating makes it difficult to assess its overall quality compared to other hospitals. ER wait times can be longer than those at other facilities.

**Geisinger Jersey Shore's Strengths:** Shorter ER wait times can be advantageous for patients seeking immediate medical attention. It offers essential services, including general surgery and primary care.

**Geisinger Jersey Shore's Weaknesses:** The range of specialty services is more limited than UPMC Williamsport.

**Factors Beyond the Score: Patient Experience and Individual Needs**

The "Overall Health Score" is just one piece of the puzzle. Patients should also consider factors like:

* **Patient Reviews:** Online reviews from other patients can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the overall patient experience.
* **Physician Credentials and Experience:** Researching the qualifications and experience of individual physicians is crucial, especially for specialized care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirming that the hospital and physicians accept your insurance plan is essential.
* **Proximity and Accessibility:** Consider the distance to the hospital and the ease of access, especially in emergencies.
* **Personal Preferences:** Some patients may prefer a larger hospital with a wider range of services, while others may prefer a smaller facility with a more personalized approach.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

For residents of the Williamsport area (ZIP Code 17702), UPMC Williamsport Hospital is the primary healthcare provider, offering a comprehensive range of services and a Level II Trauma Center. Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital provides an alternative, with potentially shorter ER wait times.

Without CMS star ratings for either hospital, a thorough assessment requires considering factors beyond this metric. Evaluate your individual healthcare needs, research physician credentials, consider patient reviews, and factor in insurance coverage and accessibility. By carefully weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision about which hospital best suits your healthcare needs. It is also advisable to check with each hospital directly for the most up-to-date information on wait times, services, and telehealth options.