17836, Leck Kill, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17836, Leck Kill, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Lewisburg, PA (ZIP Code 17836)

Finding the right healthcare provider can be a daunting task. This review offers an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals within a reasonable radius of Lewisburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17836), providing a snapshot of their strengths and weaknesses based on publicly available data. We'll delve into factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth offerings to help you make informed decisions. This is not a substitute for professional medical advice; always consult with your physician.

**The Landscape: Key Players in the Region**

The primary healthcare providers serving the Lewisburg area are Geisinger Medical Center and Evangelical Community Hospital. These hospitals are the dominant players, offering a comprehensive range of services and acting as referral centers for smaller clinics and practices. Other facilities, such as UPMC Susquehanna hospitals in nearby cities, are also within a reasonable driving distance and offer additional options.

**Geisinger Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Medical Center (GMC), located in Danville, PA, is a flagship hospital for the Geisinger Health System. It's a large, tertiary care center offering a wide array of specialties. GMC is a teaching hospital, meaning it's affiliated with medical schools and actively involved in training future physicians. This often translates to access to the latest medical advancements and a higher level of specialized care.

**CMS Star Rating & Performance:**

GMC's performance, as measured by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), is a key indicator of quality. While the most recent CMS star rating is a dynamic metric, reflecting ongoing performance, it's essential to check the most current data on the CMS website. The star rating is based on factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, patient experience, and efficiency. GMC typically scores well, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient care.

**Emergency Room (ER) Performance:**

ER wait times are a crucial factor for anyone needing immediate medical attention. While specific wait times fluctuate, GMC generally strives to maintain reasonable wait times. Data on ER wait times is often available on the hospital's website or through resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website. Shorter wait times can be indicative of efficient emergency department operations and a commitment to timely care.

**Specialty Centers & Services:**

GMC boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. These include a heart institute, a cancer institute, a neuroscience institute, and a women's health center. The hospital also has a dedicated pediatric unit and a Level I Trauma Center, providing the highest level of trauma care. The availability of these specialized services means that patients can often receive complex care close to home, reducing the need for travel to distant medical centers.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Geisinger has been a leader in telehealth adoption. They offer a wide range of telehealth services, including virtual visits for primary care, specialty consultations, and remote monitoring programs. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, providing convenient access to healthcare without the need for long drives. The availability of telehealth services also extends access to specialists and allows for ongoing care management.

**Evangelical Community Hospital: Community-Focused Care**

Evangelical Community Hospital, located in Lewisburg, PA, is a community-focused hospital serving the immediate area. It provides a wide range of services, including primary care, surgical services, and specialized care. Evangelical is known for its commitment to patient-centered care and its strong ties to the local community.

**CMS Star Rating & Performance:**

Evangelical's CMS star rating is another key indicator of its performance. Like GMC, the most current rating should be checked on the CMS website. The hospital consistently aims for high scores, reflecting its commitment to patient safety and quality.

**Emergency Room (ER) Performance:**

Evangelical's ER performance is a critical factor for local residents. Wait times are typically competitive with other regional hospitals. Checking the most recent data available from the hospital or CMS is important. Shorter wait times are a sign of an efficient and responsive emergency department.

**Specialty Centers & Services:**

Evangelical offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. While not as extensive as GMC's offerings, Evangelical provides essential specialty care for the local community. The hospital also has a comprehensive imaging department and a surgical suite equipped for a variety of procedures.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Evangelical has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing patients with access to virtual visits and remote monitoring programs. This is particularly helpful for follow-up appointments and chronic disease management. The hospital continues to invest in telehealth technology to improve patient access to care.

**UPMC Susquehanna: Expanding the Network**

UPMC Susquehanna operates several hospitals in the region, including facilities in Williamsport and other nearby towns. These hospitals provide additional healthcare options for residents of the Lewisburg area.

**CMS Star Rating & Performance:**

UPMC Susquehanna hospitals, like GMC and Evangelical, are evaluated by CMS. Checking the CMS website for the most recent star ratings for each specific UPMC Susquehanna facility is crucial. These ratings reflect the quality of care provided at each location.

**Emergency Room (ER) Performance:**

ER wait times at UPMC Susquehanna hospitals can vary depending on the location and time of day. Checking the hospital's website or utilizing resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website can provide up-to-date information on wait times.

**Specialty Centers & Services:**

UPMC Susquehanna hospitals offer a variety of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. The specific services available vary by location, so it's important to check the offerings of each individual hospital.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

UPMC Susquehanna has been expanding its telehealth capabilities, providing virtual visits and remote monitoring services. These services can enhance patient access to care and improve convenience.

**Comparing the Hospitals: A Quick Overview**

* **Geisinger Medical Center:** Offers the most comprehensive range of services, including a Level I Trauma Center and a wide array of specialty centers. Known for its research and teaching affiliations.
* **Evangelical Community Hospital:** Community-focused, providing essential services and a strong emphasis on patient-centered care. Convenient location for Lewisburg residents.
* **UPMC Susquehanna:** Provides additional options in the region, with services varying by location. Offers a network of care.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Beyond the data, several personal factors should influence your choice:

* **Proximity:** Consider the travel time to each hospital, especially in an emergency.
* **Specialty Needs:** If you have a specific medical condition, research which hospital offers the best specialized care for your needs.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital is in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online reviews from other patients to get insights into their experiences.
* **Physician Preferences:** If you have a primary care physician, ask for their recommendations.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

Based on the available data, Geisinger Medical Center generally scores highly in terms of comprehensive services, CMS star ratings, and telehealth capabilities. Evangelical Community Hospital provides excellent local care and a strong community focus. UPMC Susquehanna offers additional options in the region, expanding access to care.

**Disclaimer:** This review is based on publicly available data and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your physician for personalized healthcare recommendations. Hospital performance and wait times can change, so always check the most current data.