17845, Millmont, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17845, Millmont, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Lewisburg, PA (ZIP Code 17845)

The quest for quality healthcare near Lewisburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17845) reveals a landscape dominated by a few key players, each offering a unique blend of services, strengths, and weaknesses. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" based on a variety of factors, including hospital quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, telehealth capabilities, and overall patient experience. While no single hospital is perfect, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each is crucial for informed healthcare decisions.

**The Flagship: Evangelical Community Hospital**

Evangelical Community Hospital, located directly in Lewisburg, is the cornerstone of healthcare for the region. It's a non-profit, community-owned hospital serving the area for over a century. Evangelical holds a respectable 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), a key indicator of overall quality. This rating reflects performance across various metrics, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

Evangelical's Emergency Department (ED) is a critical resource for the community. While specific wait times fluctuate, the hospital strives to maintain reasonable wait times, a crucial factor in emergency care. The hospital's website provides real-time ED wait times, a valuable tool for patients.

Evangelical boasts a comprehensive range of specialized services. The hospital's Heart and Vascular Center is a significant regional asset, providing advanced cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and open-heart surgery. The hospital also has a robust cancer care program, offering radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology services. Furthermore, Evangelical has a strong focus on women's health, with a dedicated maternity unit and a range of gynecological services.

Telehealth is increasingly important, and Evangelical has embraced this technology. They offer a variety of telehealth services, including virtual visits for primary care and specialty consultations. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas who may have difficulty accessing in-person appointments. The hospital's telehealth platform is designed to provide convenient and accessible care.

**Geisinger's Presence: Geisinger Medical Center (Danville)**

While not directly in Lewisburg, Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, approximately a 20-minute drive, is a major healthcare provider for the region. Geisinger is a large, integrated health system known for its innovative approach to healthcare delivery. Geisinger Medical Center also holds a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting a strong commitment to quality and patient safety.

Geisinger's ED is a busy, high-volume department. Wait times can be longer than at Evangelical, reflecting the larger patient population served. However, Geisinger's ED is equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies, including trauma cases.

Geisinger is renowned for its specialty centers and research capabilities. The hospital's Heart Institute is nationally recognized, offering advanced cardiac care, including heart transplantation. Geisinger's Cancer Institute provides comprehensive cancer care, including cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials. Geisinger also has specialized centers for neurosciences, orthopedics, and other complex medical conditions.

Geisinger has invested heavily in telehealth, offering a comprehensive suite of virtual care services. This includes virtual primary care visits, specialist consultations, and remote patient monitoring programs. Geisinger's telehealth platform is designed to improve access to care and enhance patient convenience.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Hospitals and Outpatient Facilities**

Beyond Evangelical and Geisinger, the healthcare landscape near Lewisburg includes smaller hospitals and outpatient facilities. These facilities often provide specialized services or serve as convenient options for routine care.

Some urgent care clinics and outpatient centers are available within a reasonable driving distance. These facilities are useful for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, offering an alternative to the ED for less serious medical needs.

**Patient Experience: A Crucial Factor**

Patient experience is a critical aspect of healthcare quality. Both Evangelical and Geisinger emphasize patient satisfaction. Patient satisfaction scores, often gathered through surveys, are a key indicator of how patients perceive their care.

Both hospitals actively solicit patient feedback and use this information to improve their services. Patient reviews and testimonials are readily available online, providing valuable insights into the experiences of other patients.

**Financial Considerations: Insurance and Costs**

Healthcare costs are a significant concern for patients. Both Evangelical and Geisinger accept a wide range of insurance plans. However, patients should verify their insurance coverage and understand their out-of-pocket costs before receiving care.

The cost of healthcare can vary significantly depending on the services provided and the patient's insurance coverage. Patients should inquire about the cost of services and explore financial assistance options if needed.

**Specific Strengths and Weaknesses**

Evangelical Community Hospital's strength lies in its local presence and community focus. Its smaller size can translate to a more personalized patient experience. However, its specialty offerings may be less extensive than those of Geisinger.

Geisinger Medical Center's strength is its breadth of services and advanced medical capabilities. Its large size and research focus contribute to its reputation as a leading healthcare provider. However, its larger size can sometimes result in longer wait times and a less personalized experience.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

**Evangelical Community Hospital:**

* **CMS Star Rating:** 4 stars
* **ER Wait Times:** Generally reasonable, with real-time updates available.
* **Specialty Centers:** Strong in cardiology, cancer care, and women's health.
* **Telehealth:** Offers a range of virtual care services.
* **Overall:** A strong community hospital with a good reputation for patient care.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville):**

* **CMS Star Rating:** 4 stars
* **ER Wait Times:** Can be longer due to high volume.
* **Specialty Centers:** Nationally recognized in cardiology, cancer care, and other specialties.
* **Telehealth:** Extensive telehealth offerings.
* **Overall:** A comprehensive healthcare system with advanced medical capabilities.

**The Verdict: Choosing the Right Hospital**

The "Overall Health Score" for the hospitals near Lewisburg, PA, is highly positive. Both Evangelical and Geisinger are strong healthcare providers. The best choice depends on individual needs and preferences.

For routine care and a more personalized experience, Evangelical Community Hospital is an excellent choice. For complex medical conditions and access to a wider range of specialists, Geisinger Medical Center is a strong option.

Patients should consider their individual needs, insurance coverage, and preferences when making healthcare decisions. Researching each hospital's specific services, patient reviews, and wait times is crucial for making an informed choice. Utilizing telehealth options can also enhance access to care and convenience. The healthcare landscape near Lewisburg offers a good level of care, providing residents with choices that can be tailored to their individual needs.