17847, Milton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17847, Milton, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near Lewisburg, PA (ZIP Code 17847)

Finding quality healthcare is paramount, and for residents near Lewisburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17847), several options exist. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors from CMS star ratings and ER wait times to specialty centers and telehealth offerings. We'll dissect the strengths and weaknesses of the major players in the region, offering a clear picture of the healthcare landscape.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Geographic Considerations**

The primary hospitals serving the 17847 ZIP code are located in and around the town of Lewisburg, as well as in nearby cities like Danville and Williamsport. Proximity is a significant factor, influencing access to care, particularly in emergencies. Traffic patterns, especially during peak hours and on weekends, can affect travel times to these facilities.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville, PA): The Flagship and Its Score**

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, approximately a 20-minute drive from Lewisburg, is the undisputed flagship hospital in the region. It is a large, tertiary care center offering a comprehensive range of services. Geisinger is a major employer and a significant economic driver for the region.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Geisinger Medical Center consistently receives a high rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While these ratings fluctuate slightly year to year, Geisinger typically earns a four or five-star rating, reflecting strong performance across various quality metrics. This indicates a commitment to patient safety, effective care, and positive patient experiences.
* **Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times at Geisinger Medical Center are generally within the national average. While specific wait times can vary depending on the time of day and patient volume, Geisinger strives to maintain efficient ER operations. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours.
* **Specialty Centers:** Geisinger boasts a wide array of specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, and orthopedics. The hospital's Heart Institute is particularly well-regarded, offering advanced cardiac care. The Geisinger Cancer Institute provides comprehensive cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
* **Telehealth Initiatives:** Geisinger is a leader in telehealth, offering a robust suite of virtual care options. They provide virtual appointments with primary care physicians and specialists, as well as remote monitoring programs for chronic conditions. This is a significant advantage for residents in rural areas, reducing the need for travel.
* **Overall Health Score:** Geisinger Medical Center earns a high Overall Health Score. Its strong CMS star rating, comprehensive specialty services, and commitment to telehealth make it a top choice for residents in the region.

**Evangelical Community Hospital (Lewisburg, PA): A Community Focus**

Located directly in Lewisburg, Evangelical Community Hospital offers a more localized healthcare experience. It provides a range of services, focusing on community needs.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Evangelical Community Hospital typically receives a solid CMS star rating, often in the three- to four-star range. This reflects a good level of quality and patient care.
* **Emergency Room Performance:** Evangelical's ER wait times are generally shorter than those at Geisinger, offering quicker access to emergency care for residents in Lewisburg.
* **Specialty Centers:** Evangelical offers a strong focus on primary care, with a range of specialists available. It has a well-regarded Women's Health Center and provides services in areas like cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery.
* **Telehealth Initiatives:** Evangelical has been expanding its telehealth offerings, providing virtual appointments and remote monitoring services. While perhaps not as extensive as Geisinger's program, it is continually growing.
* **Overall Health Score:** Evangelical Community Hospital provides a valuable service to the community. Its convenient location, shorter ER wait times, and focus on community needs contribute to a good Overall Health Score.

**UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport (Williamsport, PA): Another Option**

UPMC Susquehanna, located in Williamsport, about a 45-minute drive from Lewisburg, provides another hospital option for residents.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UPMC Susquehanna's CMS star ratings can vary but generally fall within the average range.
* **Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times at UPMC Susquehanna can fluctuate, but they are generally comparable to the national average.
* **Specialty Centers:** UPMC Susquehanna offers a variety of specialty services, including cardiology, cancer care, and orthopedic surgery.
* **Telehealth Initiatives:** UPMC Susquehanna has been increasing its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring.
* **Overall Health Score:** UPMC Susquehanna provides a valuable healthcare resource for the region.

**Other Considerations: Access, Convenience, and Specific Needs**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several factors influence the Overall Health Score for residents near 17847:

* **Primary Care Physicians:** Access to primary care physicians is crucial. The availability of family doctors and internal medicine specialists in the Lewisburg area is generally good, but wait times for appointments can vary.
* **Specialized Care:** For specialized care, such as complex cardiac procedures or advanced cancer treatment, Geisinger Medical Center is often the preferred choice due to its comprehensive facilities and expertise.
* **Mental Health Services:** Access to mental health services is an important consideration. Both Geisinger and Evangelical offer mental health services, but availability and wait times can be a concern.
* **Urgent Care Centers:** Several urgent care centers are located in and around Lewisburg. These centers provide convenient options for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries.
* **Transportation:** Transportation options, particularly for those without personal vehicles, can impact access to healthcare. Public transportation options in the area are limited.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the quality of care. Both Geisinger and Evangelical consistently receive positive feedback from patients, reflecting a commitment to patient-centered care.

**Telehealth: A Growing Influence**

Telehealth is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Geisinger's robust telehealth program offers significant advantages, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. Evangelical and UPMC Susquehanna are also expanding their telehealth capabilities, providing more virtual care options. Telehealth is a key factor in improving the Overall Health Score for residents in the 17847 ZIP code.

**Specific Concerns and Considerations**

* **ER Wait Times:** While Geisinger's ER wait times are generally within the national average, patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. Evangelical's ER often provides quicker access.
* **Specialty Access:** While both Geisinger and UPMC Susquehanna offer comprehensive specialty services, access to certain specialists may require referrals and involve wait times.
* **Mental Health:** Access to mental health services can be a challenge. Residents should explore available resources and consider telehealth options.
* **Cost of Care:** The cost of healthcare is a significant concern. Patients should understand their insurance coverage and inquire about costs before receiving services.

**Conclusion: A Region with Solid Healthcare Options**

The 17847 ZIP code area benefits from a strong healthcare infrastructure. Geisinger Medical Center, with its high CMS star rating, comprehensive specialty services, and robust telehealth program, is the flagship hospital. Evangelical Community Hospital provides a valuable community-focused option. UPMC Susquehanna offers another choice. Residents should consider their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage when selecting a healthcare provider. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each facility, residents can make informed decisions and optimize their Overall Health Score. The ongoing expansion of telehealth services promises to further enhance access to care in the region.