17820, Catawissa, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17820, Catawissa, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Danville, PA (ZIP Code 17820)

Danville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Montour County, relies on a few key hospitals to serve its healthcare needs. Assessing the overall health score of these facilities requires a deep dive into various factors, from patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes to access to specialized services and technological advancements. This review focuses on the prominent hospitals near ZIP code 17820, offering a comprehensive look at their strengths and weaknesses.

**Geisinger Medical Center: The Flagship and Its Stars**

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA, is the undeniable flagship healthcare provider for the region. As a large, tertiary care center, it offers a broad spectrum of medical services and specialties. Its prominence is reflected in its designation as a Magnet hospital for nursing excellence, a significant achievement highlighting the quality of care provided.

Geisinger Medical Center has consistently received a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, based on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience, places Geisinger in a favorable position compared to many other hospitals nationally. However, it's crucial to note that CMS ratings are just one metric, and a comprehensive assessment requires considering other factors.

**Emergency Department Dynamics**

Emergency room wait times are a critical aspect of hospital performance. Geisinger Medical Center's ER sees a high volume of patients, and wait times can fluctuate. Data suggests that the average wait time to see a provider in the ER is often reported, but it's important to check real-time data through Geisinger's website or other sources, as these times can vary based on the time of day, day of the week, and patient volume. Shorter wait times generally indicate a more efficient ER, which can be crucial in urgent situations.

**Specialty Centers and Advanced Care**

Geisinger Medical Center boasts a wide array of specialty centers. Its Heart Institute is nationally recognized for its cardiovascular care, offering advanced procedures and treatments. The hospital also has a comprehensive cancer center, providing multidisciplinary care for patients with various types of cancer. Additionally, the hospital offers specialized services in areas such as neurosurgery, orthopedics, and women's health. The presence of these centers underscores the hospital's ability to handle complex medical cases.

**Telehealth Integration: Expanding Access**

Geisinger has been a pioneer in telehealth, leveraging technology to expand access to care, particularly in rural areas. The health system offers a range of telehealth services, including virtual visits with primary care physicians and specialists, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and behavioral health services. This commitment to telehealth is particularly valuable for residents in the 17820 ZIP code, who may face geographical barriers to accessing healthcare. The number of telehealth visits and the types of services offered are indicators of the hospital's commitment to innovation and patient convenience.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient satisfaction is a crucial element in assessing a hospital's overall health score. Geisinger Medical Center participates in the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey, which measures patient experiences. Publicly available HCAHPS scores offer insights into patient perceptions of communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of hospital staff, pain management, and overall hospital rating. Analyzing these scores provides a valuable perspective on the patient experience at Geisinger.

**Other Hospitals in the Vicinity**

While Geisinger Medical Center is the dominant healthcare provider, other hospitals in the region also contribute to the overall health landscape.

**Evangelical Community Hospital (Lewisburg, PA)**

Located in Lewisburg, PA, approximately 20 miles from Danville, Evangelical Community Hospital offers a range of services and is a community-focused hospital. Evangelical has a good reputation for patient satisfaction and community involvement. It also has a 4-star rating from CMS.

**Emergency Room and Specialty Care at Evangelical**

Evangelical's ER wait times are generally shorter than those at Geisinger, which can be a significant advantage for patients seeking immediate care. The hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. While not as extensive as Geisinger's, Evangelical provides essential services to the local population.

**Telehealth at Evangelical**

Evangelical has also expanded its telehealth capabilities.

**Other Considerations: Accessibility and Community Health**

Beyond individual hospital performance, the overall health score for the 17820 ZIP code is influenced by factors beyond the walls of the hospitals themselves.

**Accessibility of Care**

The geographic location of hospitals and the availability of transportation options are crucial for residents. Public transportation options in the area are limited, making access to care more challenging for those without personal vehicles.

**Community Health Initiatives**

The hospitals' involvement in community health initiatives also contributes to the overall health score. Programs focused on preventative care, health education, and addressing social determinants of health can improve the well-being of the community.

**Conclusion: A Multifaceted Assessment**

Assessing the overall health score for hospitals near ZIP code 17820 requires a nuanced approach. Geisinger Medical Center, as the flagship hospital, offers a comprehensive range of services and benefits from its high CMS star rating and advanced specialty centers. However, factors like ER wait times and patient experience should be considered. Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg provides a valuable alternative, particularly with its shorter ER wait times and strong community focus. Telehealth initiatives at both hospitals are working to improve access to care.

Ultimately, the best hospital for an individual depends on their specific needs and preferences. While Geisinger Medical Center is the dominant provider, residents should consider the strengths of both hospitals and other healthcare providers in the region when making decisions about their healthcare. The overall health score of the region is also influenced by factors such as accessibility, community health initiatives, and the availability of primary care physicians and specialists. Continuous monitoring of hospital performance metrics, patient feedback, and evolving healthcare trends is essential for maintaining and improving the health of the community.