17740, Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17740, Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Jersey Shore, PA (ZIP Code 17740)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review offers an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17740), providing a fact-rich snapshot of their performance, capabilities, and accessibility. This score considers factors like quality of care, patient safety, wait times, and specialized services. Note: This analysis is based on publicly available data and may change. Always consult with your physician for personalized medical advice.

**The Landscape:** The immediate vicinity of Jersey Shore is primarily served by UPMC Susquehanna hospitals, with the flagship facility in Williamsport being a key player. Other hospitals in the region, while further afield, also serve the population. The overall health landscape is influenced by the rural nature of the area, impacting access to specialized services and the availability of certain technologies.

**UPMC Williamsport (Flagship Hospital):** UPMC Williamsport is the primary hospital for residents of the 17740 ZIP code. This facility is a major regional medical center and a crucial component of the UPMC Susquehanna system.

**CMS Star Rating:** UPMC Williamsport currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating is based on a complex set of metrics encompassing mortality, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, and timely and effective care. While a 3-star rating suggests average performance, it's essential to delve deeper into specific performance areas.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times are a critical factor for residents. Publicly available data suggests average ER wait times at UPMC Williamsport fluctuate, but are generally within the national average. It's important to note that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition. The hospital’s website and local news outlets often provide real-time wait time updates.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** UPMC Williamsport offers a wide array of specialized services. These include a comprehensive heart and vascular institute, providing advanced cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. The hospital also boasts a cancer center, offering radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. Other notable services include a dedicated women's health center, a comprehensive stroke center, and a robust orthopedic program.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** UPMC has invested heavily in telehealth services, particularly in rural areas. UPMC Williamsport offers telehealth consultations for various specialties, including cardiology, neurology, and behavioral health. This is particularly beneficial for residents in the 17740 ZIP code, as it can reduce the need for travel for routine appointments and follow-up care. Telehealth options can also provide access to specialists who might not be readily available in the immediate area.

**Patient Experience:** Patient experience is a key component of the CMS star rating. UPMC Williamsport's patient satisfaction scores, as measured by the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey, are generally in line with national averages. Areas to consider include communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of hospital staff, and the cleanliness and quietness of the hospital environment. Patient reviews and online forums can provide additional insights into the patient experience.

**Other Hospitals within Reach:** While UPMC Williamsport is the primary hospital, residents may also seek care at other facilities in the region.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville, PA):** Located approximately an hour's drive from Jersey Shore, Geisinger Medical Center is a large, tertiary care center. It is a Level I trauma center and offers a wide range of specialized services, including advanced cardiac care, transplant services, and complex surgical procedures. Geisinger is known for its integrated healthcare system and its focus on population health.

**CMS Star Rating:** Geisinger Medical Center currently holds a 4-star rating from CMS, indicating above-average performance. This higher rating reflects strong performance in several key areas, including patient safety and quality of care.

**Emergency Room Performance:** Geisinger Medical Center typically has longer ER wait times than UPMC Williamsport, reflecting its role as a regional referral center. However, wait times can fluctuate, and it's advisable to check real-time data before visiting.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Geisinger Medical Center offers a broader range of specialized services than UPMC Williamsport, including advanced transplant programs, specialized cancer care, and cutting-edge research facilities. It is a major referral center for complex medical cases in the region.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Geisinger has a robust telehealth program, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This is particularly beneficial for residents in rural areas who may have difficulty accessing in-person appointments.

**Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores at Geisinger Medical Center are generally positive, reflecting its commitment to patient-centered care.

**Bucktail Medical Center (Renovo, PA):** Bucktail Medical Center is a critical access hospital located approximately 30 minutes from Jersey Shore. It provides essential services to the surrounding rural communities.

**CMS Star Rating:** Critical access hospitals are not typically rated by CMS in the same way as larger facilities.

**Emergency Room Performance:** Bucktail Medical Center's ER wait times are generally shorter than those at larger hospitals, reflecting its role as a community hospital.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Bucktail Medical Center offers basic emergency services, primary care, and some specialty clinics. It may refer patients with complex needs to larger hospitals.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Bucktail Medical Center has limited telehealth capabilities, primarily for specialist consultations.

**Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores at Bucktail Medical Center are generally positive, reflecting its focus on personalized care.

**Factors Influencing Overall Health Score:** Several factors contribute to the overall health score for hospitals near Jersey Shore.

**Accessibility:** The distance to hospitals and the availability of transportation are crucial considerations, especially for residents in rural areas. The presence of public transportation options and the availability of ambulance services can impact access to care.

**Specialty Availability:** The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology, is a critical factor. Residents may need to travel to access these services, impacting their overall health outcomes.

**Insurance Coverage:** The acceptance of various insurance plans is a significant factor. Residents with limited insurance coverage may face financial barriers to accessing care.

**Community Health Needs:** The specific health needs of the community, such as the prevalence of chronic diseases, influence the types of services that are most needed.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

**UPMC Williamsport:** A solid regional hospital offering a comprehensive range of services. The 3-star CMS rating suggests average performance, but the hospital's investment in telehealth and its specialized centers are positive aspects. ER wait times are generally acceptable.

**Geisinger Medical Center:** A highly-rated, tertiary care center offering a broader range of specialized services. The 4-star CMS rating indicates strong performance. However, the longer travel distance and potentially longer ER wait times should be considered.

**Bucktail Medical Center:** A critical access hospital providing essential services to the local community. It is a good option for basic care and emergency services, but may require referrals for specialized needs.

**Recommendations:**

* **For Routine Care:** UPMC Williamsport is the most convenient option for residents of the 17740 ZIP code.
* **For Specialized Care:** Geisinger Medical Center offers a wider range of specialized services and is a strong option for complex medical needs.
* **For Emergency Care:** UPMC Williamsport and Bucktail Medical Center provide emergency services. Geisinger Medical Center is also an option, but travel time should be considered.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Take advantage of telehealth services offered by UPMC and Geisinger to access specialists and reduce the need for travel.
* **Research and Compare:** Before seeking care, research the specific services offered by each hospital and compare patient reviews and satisfaction scores.
* **Consult Your Physician:** Always consult with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations and referrals.