17821, Danville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17821, Danville, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Danville, PA (ZIP Code 17821)

Finding the best healthcare options is crucial, and for residents near Danville, PA (ZIP code 17821), several hospitals offer a range of services. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like quality ratings, wait times, specialty offerings, and telehealth availability, to help you navigate your healthcare choices. Note that this is not a ranking, but an informational overview to aid in informed decision-making.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The primary healthcare providers serving the Danville area include Geisinger Medical Center, Evangelical Community Hospital, and several smaller facilities. Proximity to these hospitals is generally good for residents of the 17821 ZIP code, though travel times can vary depending on location within the area.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville, PA): A Flagship Institution**

Geisinger Medical Center, located directly in Danville, is the dominant healthcare presence. It is a large, tertiary care center and a teaching hospital. This means it offers a wide range of services and often handles complex medical cases. Geisinger is known for its integrated health system, emphasizing coordinated care and a focus on population health.

**Quality Ratings & Performance:**

Geisinger Medical Center's performance is tracked by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which assigns star ratings. As of the latest available data, Geisinger Medical Center has a four-star rating. This rating reflects its performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. It's important to note that CMS ratings are just one metric, and other organizations like U.S. News & World Report also provide hospital rankings based on different methodologies. Geisinger consistently appears on these lists, particularly for specialties like cardiology and cancer care.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for many patients. Data on ED wait times is publicly available. Geisinger Medical Center's ED typically sees a high volume of patients. While specific wait times fluctuate, it's advisable to check the hospital's website or use online tools that provide real-time or recent wait time estimates before heading to the ER.

**Specialty Centers & Services:**

Geisinger boasts a comprehensive array of specialty centers. Its Heart Institute is nationally recognized for its cardiovascular care, offering advanced procedures and a team of specialized physicians. The Cancer Institute provides comprehensive cancer treatment, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, as well as access to clinical trials. The hospital also has dedicated centers for neurosciences, orthopedics, women's health, and a Level I Trauma Center, equipped to handle the most severe injuries.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Geisinger is a leader in telehealth services. They offer a wide range of virtual care options, including video consultations with specialists, remote monitoring for chronic conditions, and virtual urgent care. This is particularly beneficial for residents in rural areas, providing access to care without the need for travel. The health system has invested heavily in telehealth infrastructure, making it a readily available option for many patients.

**Evangelical Community Hospital (Lewisburg, PA): A Community-Focused Approach**

Located a short drive from Danville in Lewisburg, Evangelical Community Hospital provides another key healthcare option. It is a community-focused hospital, offering a broad range of services with a strong emphasis on patient-centered care.

**Quality Ratings & Performance:**

Evangelical Community Hospital generally receives positive ratings from CMS. It is important to check the latest CMS data for its star rating, as these can change over time. This hospital also participates in various quality improvement initiatives and is often recognized for its commitment to patient safety and satisfaction.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:**

Evangelical Community Hospital's ED is a critical resource for the surrounding communities. Like Geisinger, it’s advisable to check current wait times before visiting. These can be found on the hospital's website or through online resources.

**Specialty Centers & Services:**

Evangelical offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. They have a dedicated birthing center and provide comprehensive services for mothers and newborns. They also have a cancer center and offer various surgical procedures.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Evangelical Community Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings. They provide virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services to improve access to care. This is particularly valuable for follow-up appointments and managing chronic conditions.

**Other Healthcare Options:**

Besides the major hospitals, the area around Danville has numerous other healthcare providers. These include:

* **Primary Care Physicians:** Numerous family medicine practices and internal medicine clinics are available, providing essential primary care services.
* **Specialty Clinics:** Various specialty clinics offer services in areas like dermatology, gastroenterology, and endocrinology.
* **Urgent Care Centers:** Several urgent care centers provide immediate care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, offering an alternative to the ER for less serious conditions.
* **Rehabilitation Centers:** Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and rehabilitation services are available to support recovery from injuries and illnesses.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

When selecting a hospital, consider the following factors:

* **Your specific healthcare needs:** Do you require specialized care for a particular condition?
* **Insurance coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.
* **Proximity and accessibility:** Consider the travel time and ease of access to the hospital.
* **Hospital ratings and reviews:** Research patient satisfaction scores and read reviews from other patients.
* **Specialty services offered:** Does the hospital have the specific specialists and services you require?
* **Telehealth availability:** If you prefer virtual care options, check the hospital's telehealth offerings.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the available information, the overall health score for the Danville area is generally positive. The presence of Geisinger Medical Center, a major tertiary care center, significantly boosts the area's healthcare capabilities. Evangelical Community Hospital provides a valuable community-focused alternative. The availability of primary care physicians, specialty clinics, and urgent care centers further enhances the healthcare landscape.

**Specific Considerations for 17821 Residents:**

Residents of the 17821 ZIP code have convenient access to both Geisinger Medical Center and Evangelical Community Hospital. The choice between these two hospitals will depend on individual needs and preferences. Geisinger's breadth of services and advanced specialty centers make it a strong choice for complex medical conditions. Evangelical's community focus and commitment to patient-centered care are attractive for those seeking a more personalized experience.

**Conclusion:**

The Danville, PA area offers a robust healthcare environment. While Geisinger Medical Center is a major asset, Evangelical Community Hospital and other providers offer valuable alternatives. Residents should research their options, considering their specific needs and preferences, to make informed healthcare decisions. Regularly checking hospital websites for updated information on wait times, services, and telehealth availability is recommended. This "Overall Health Score" review aims to provide a helpful starting point for navigating the healthcare landscape near ZIP code 17821.