17815, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17815, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Danville, PA (ZIP Code 17815)

The residents of Danville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17815) and surrounding areas have a crucial question: Where can they receive the best healthcare? This review provides an in-depth analysis of the primary hospital options, evaluating their performance across various metrics to offer an "Overall Health Score" perspective. This score isn't a single number, but rather a composite understanding based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities.

**Geisinger Medical Center: The Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA, is undoubtedly the dominant healthcare provider in the region. As a flagship hospital within the Geisinger Health System, it serves as a regional referral center and teaching hospital. Its size and scope mean it offers a comprehensive range of services, making it a critical resource for the community.

Geisinger Medical Center holds a **4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating, based on a complex algorithm evaluating patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience, places it in the "above average" category. While not a perfect score, it indicates a solid level of quality compared to other hospitals nationally.

Emergency room (ER) wait times are a critical factor for many patients. Data suggests that Geisinger Medical Center's ER wait times fluctuate, but generally, patients can expect to be seen by a provider within a reasonable timeframe. Specific wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the presenting conditions. It's always advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before heading to the ER.

Geisinger's specialty centers are a major draw. They have a renowned **Heart Institute**, offering advanced cardiac care, including open-heart surgery and interventional cardiology. The **Geisinger Cancer Institute** provides comprehensive cancer treatment, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. The hospital also boasts a robust **neuroscience program**, dealing with neurological conditions and providing advanced treatments.

Telehealth is a growing area of focus for Geisinger. They have expanded their telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists for patients in rural areas. This is particularly important for residents in the geographically dispersed areas served by the health system. The hospital's telehealth platform has been utilized extensively, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, improving access to care and reducing the need for in-person visits.

**Evangelical Community Hospital: A Community-Focused Option**

Located in Lewisburg, PA, approximately 15 miles from Danville, Evangelical Community Hospital offers a different healthcare experience. It's a smaller, community-focused hospital, providing a range of services with a strong emphasis on patient-centered care.

Evangelical Community Hospital has a **4-star CMS rating**, mirroring Geisinger's score. This indicates a similar level of overall quality, though the specific areas of strength and weakness may differ. This rating suggests that Evangelical is providing a high level of care to its patients.

ER wait times at Evangelical are generally shorter than those at Geisinger, reflecting the smaller patient volume. However, wait times can still fluctuate, and it's important to check for real-time updates. The hospital is known for its efficient ER operations, which can be a significant advantage for patients needing immediate care.

Evangelical's specialty services include a **comprehensive cardiac program**, offering diagnostic and interventional cardiology services. They also have a well-regarded **orthopedics department**, specializing in joint replacements and sports medicine. While it may not have the same breadth of specialized services as Geisinger, Evangelical provides a high level of care in these key areas.

Telehealth is also a growing area for Evangelical. They have increased their telehealth offerings, especially for follow-up appointments and chronic disease management. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live in remote areas or have difficulty traveling to the hospital.

**Comparing the Options: A Nuanced Perspective**

Choosing the "best" hospital depends on individual needs and preferences. Geisinger Medical Center's size and scope make it the go-to option for complex medical conditions and specialized care. Its comprehensive services and regional reach offer a wide range of expertise. However, the larger size can sometimes lead to longer wait times and a less intimate patient experience.

Evangelical Community Hospital offers a more community-focused environment, with potentially shorter wait times and a greater emphasis on personalized care. Its strong specialty programs and commitment to patient satisfaction make it a good option for many residents. However, its smaller size means that it may not offer the same breadth of services as Geisinger.

**Other Considerations: Access and Convenience**

Beyond the hospitals themselves, access and convenience are crucial factors. The distance from Danville to both Geisinger and Evangelical is manageable, but residents in more rural areas may face longer travel times.

Both hospitals are accessible by ambulance, and both have adequate parking facilities.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

Both Geisinger Medical Center and Evangelical Community Hospital provide high-quality healthcare to the residents of the Danville area.

**Geisinger Medical Center** excels in its comprehensive services, specialized centers, and advanced technology. It is a strong choice for complex medical needs and access to a wide range of specialists. Its **4-star CMS rating** reflects its overall quality, though wait times can be a factor.

**Evangelical Community Hospital** offers a more community-focused experience, with potentially shorter wait times and a strong emphasis on patient satisfaction. Its **4-star CMS rating** indicates a high level of care, and its specialty programs are well-regarded.

The "best" choice depends on individual needs. For complex conditions, Geisinger's comprehensive services are likely the better option. For a more personalized experience and potentially shorter wait times, Evangelical is an excellent choice. Both hospitals are committed to expanding their telehealth offerings, which will continue to improve access to care for the community. Residents should research both options, consider their specific needs, and make an informed decision based on their individual circumstances.