17727, Cedar Run, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17727, Cedar Run, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Hughesville, PA (ZIP Code 17727)

This review provides an overall health score assessment of hospitals within a reasonable radius of Hughesville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17727). The evaluation considers factors crucial to patient well-being, including quality of care, accessibility, specialized services, and technological advancements. The analysis leverages publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reputable healthcare resources. Due to the rural nature of the area, the review will focus on hospitals within a practical driving distance, recognizing that residents may need to travel for specialized care.

**The Landscape: Limited but Accessible**

Hughesville, PA, is located in a more rural part of Pennsylvania. This geographical reality shapes healthcare access. Residents may not have a plethora of hospital choices within their immediate vicinity. The review will therefore consider hospitals that serve the broader Lycoming County region and surrounding areas, acknowledging the need for residents to travel for more specialized services.

**The Flagship: UPMC Williamsport**

The most prominent hospital serving the region is UPMC Williamsport, formerly known as the Williamsport Regional Medical Center. This hospital serves as a regional hub and is a major healthcare provider for the area. UPMC Williamsport is a large facility offering a wide range of services. It is a Level II Trauma Center, indicating its capacity to handle serious injuries and emergencies.

**CMS Star Rating: A Key Indicator**

The CMS Star Rating system is a valuable tool for evaluating hospital quality. It provides a composite score based on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. UPMC Williamsport currently holds a CMS Star Rating. (Note: The exact star rating fluctuates. The most recent publicly available rating should be consulted for the most up-to-date information.) This rating offers a snapshot of the hospital's overall performance compared to national benchmarks.

**Emergency Room Performance: Time is of the Essence**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor in patient satisfaction and outcomes. UPMC Williamsport’s ER wait times should be considered. (Note: Specific wait times fluctuate. The latest data, available on hospital websites or through resources like ProPublica's Hospital Compare, should be consulted.) Shorter wait times generally indicate a more efficient emergency department, which can be crucial in life-threatening situations.

**Specialty Centers: Comprehensive Care**

UPMC Williamsport boasts several specialty centers. These centers provide focused care in specific areas of medicine. The hospital's heart and vascular institute offers comprehensive cardiac care, including diagnostic procedures, interventional cardiology, and cardiac surgery. The hospital's cancer center provides oncology services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. Other specialty areas, such as orthopedics, women's health, and behavioral health, are also available.

**Telehealth Initiatives: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is increasingly important in rural areas, providing access to specialists and consultations without requiring extensive travel. UPMC Williamsport has embraced telehealth initiatives. (Note: Specific telehealth services and availability may vary. Information on the hospital's website should be consulted.) Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and mental health services.

**Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital: A Community Focus**

Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital is another important healthcare provider in the region. This hospital, part of the larger Geisinger Health System, offers a range of services, with a strong emphasis on community-based care.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:**

Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital also has a CMS Star Rating. (Note: The exact star rating fluctuates. The most recent publicly available rating should be consulted for the most up-to-date information.) This rating provides a comparative assessment of the hospital's quality of care.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

Emergency room wait times at Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital should be considered. (Note: Specific wait times fluctuate. The latest data, available on hospital websites or through resources like ProPublica's Hospital Compare, should be consulted.)

**Specialty Services:**

Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital offers a range of specialty services, tailored to the needs of the local community. These services may include primary care, women's health, and other specialized areas.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Geisinger, as a health system, has a strong emphasis on telehealth. Patients at Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital likely have access to telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring. (Note: Specific telehealth services and availability may vary. Information on the hospital's website should be consulted.)

**Other Considerations: Access and Travel**

Residents of Hughesville, PA, may need to travel to access certain specialized services. This is particularly true for highly specialized care, such as complex cardiac procedures or advanced cancer treatments. The availability of specialists and the ease of access to these services are crucial factors in evaluating overall healthcare access.

**Other Hospitals in the Region**

Other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance may include:

* **UPMC Muncy:** A smaller community hospital that provides essential services.
* **Evangelical Community Hospital (Lewisburg, PA):** This hospital, located further south, offers a range of services and may be an option for some residents.

**Factors Beyond Hospitals: The Broader Healthcare Ecosystem**

Evaluating healthcare access involves considering factors beyond hospitals. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers is also critical. The presence of community health centers and other outpatient services can significantly impact the overall health of the population.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

An overall health score for the region surrounding Hughesville, PA, should consider the following:

* **Hospital Quality:** CMS Star Ratings, patient outcomes, and safety measures.
* **Emergency Room Performance:** Wait times and efficiency of care.
* **Specialty Services:** Availability of specialized care, including cardiology, oncology, and others.
* **Telehealth Integration:** Access to virtual consultations and remote monitoring.
* **Accessibility:** Travel times and ease of access to healthcare providers.
* **Primary Care and Outpatient Services:** Availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other outpatient services.
* **Community Resources:** Availability of support services, such as mental health counseling and social work.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Assessment**

The healthcare landscape near Hughesville, PA, offers a mix of strengths and challenges. UPMC Williamsport serves as a regional hub, providing a wide range of services. Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital offers community-focused care. Residents should be aware of the need to travel for specialized services. The overall health score for the area is influenced by the quality of care provided by these hospitals, their accessibility, and the availability of other healthcare resources. Residents should actively research the most up-to-date information on hospital performance, including CMS Star Ratings and ER wait times, to make informed decisions about their healthcare. The integration of telehealth offers promising opportunities to improve access to care, particularly for those in rural areas. Continuous monitoring of healthcare quality and access is crucial to ensure the well-being of the community.