17749, Mc Ewensville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17749, Mc Ewensville, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Jersey Shore, PA (ZIP Code 17749)

This review assesses the overall health landscape for residents near Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17749), focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and the availability of critical healthcare services. We analyze data from various sources, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and publicly available reports, to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for the region. This score considers factors like hospital ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty care availability, telehealth services, and overall patient experience.

**The Keystone of Care: UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport**

The most prominent healthcare provider in the area is UPMC Susquehanna, with its flagship hospital in Williamsport, approximately a 20-minute drive from Jersey Shore. UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport is a significant player, serving a wide geographic area. This hospital holds a respectable 3-star rating from CMS. While not the highest possible score, it reflects a consistent level of care and performance across various quality metrics.

UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport boasts a comprehensive range of services. It is a designated Level II Trauma Center, a crucial designation for handling severe injuries and emergencies. This means the hospital has the resources and expertise to provide immediate and advanced trauma care. The hospital also houses a robust cardiology program, including interventional cardiology, which is vital for the treatment of heart disease, a leading cause of mortality.

**ER Performance and Accessibility:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical indicator of accessibility and can significantly impact patient outcomes. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport generally reports wait times that are within the national average. However, it's crucial for patients to understand that wait times can vary depending on the time of day, the severity of the patient's condition, and the overall volume of patients. It's advisable to check the hospital's website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Beyond general medical care, UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport offers specialized services. The hospital has a dedicated cancer center, providing comprehensive cancer treatment, including radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology. This is a vital resource for the local community, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized cancer care. The hospital also has a strong focus on women's health, with obstetrics and gynecology services.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. UPMC Susquehanna has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing patients with access to virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and access to specialists who may not be readily available in the immediate area. The utilization rates and patient satisfaction scores for these services are generally positive, reflecting the growing acceptance of telehealth.

**Other Healthcare Options: Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital**

Located directly in Jersey Shore, Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital offers a more localized healthcare option. This hospital is a smaller facility compared to UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport, but it plays a crucial role in providing immediate care and serving the local community. Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital provides a range of services, including emergency care, primary care, and some specialty services.

**Geisinger's Focus:**

Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital's strength lies in its community focus. The hospital is committed to providing accessible and personalized care to residents of Jersey Shore and the surrounding areas. The hospital has a strong primary care network, which is essential for preventative care and managing chronic conditions.

**ER Performance at Geisinger Jersey Shore:**

ER wait times at Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital are generally shorter than those at UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport, reflecting the smaller patient volume. However, wait times can still fluctuate. Patients should always be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours.

**Specialty Services at Geisinger Jersey Shore:**

While not as extensive as UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport, Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital offers several specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. The hospital has a dedicated surgical suite and a team of experienced surgeons.

**Telehealth at Geisinger:**

Geisinger has also integrated telehealth services, allowing patients to access virtual consultations and remote monitoring. This is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions who require regular follow-up care.

**Comparing the Two:**

The choice between UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport and Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital depends on individual needs and preferences. UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport offers a broader range of services, including a Level II Trauma Center and a comprehensive cancer center. Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital provides a more localized and community-focused approach, with generally shorter ER wait times.

**Other Considerations:**

**Access to Primary Care Physicians:**

The availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor in overall health. Both UPMC and Geisinger have primary care networks in the area. However, it's essential for residents to establish a relationship with a primary care physician for preventative care and ongoing health management.

**Mental Health Services:**

Access to mental health services is another important consideration. Both UPMC and Geisinger offer mental health services, including outpatient therapy and psychiatric care. However, wait times for mental health appointments can sometimes be longer than for other medical services.

**Patient Satisfaction:**

Patient satisfaction is a key indicator of quality of care. Both UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport and Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital participate in patient satisfaction surveys. While specific scores fluctuate, both hospitals generally receive positive feedback from patients.

**Overall Health Score for Jersey Shore (17749):**

Based on the available data, the "Overall Health Score" for residents near Jersey Shore, PA (17749) is considered to be **Good**. The region benefits from the presence of two major healthcare providers: UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport, a larger hospital with a wide range of services, and Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital, a more localized option with shorter ER wait times. Both hospitals have integrated telehealth services, improving access to care. While UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport has a 3-star CMS rating, this indicates a consistent level of care. The availability of specialty services, including a Level II Trauma Center and a cancer center, further enhances the health landscape. The presence of strong primary care networks and mental health services contributes to the overall score.

**Areas for Improvement:**

While the overall health score is good, there are areas for potential improvement. Reducing ER wait times, particularly at UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport, would enhance accessibility. Expanding telehealth offerings and increasing patient awareness of these services could further improve access to care, especially for those in remote areas. Continued investment in primary care and mental health services is also crucial.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of Jersey Shore (17749) have access to a reasonable level of healthcare services. The presence of two major hospitals, along with a network of primary care physicians and specialists, provides a solid foundation for healthcare delivery. However, patients should be aware of potential wait times and should actively seek out preventative care and manage their health conditions. The ongoing development of telehealth services promises to further improve access and convenience for residents in the area.