17857, Northumberland, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17857, Northumberland, Pennsylvania is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Lewisburg, PA (ZIP Code 17857)

Finding the right healthcare provider is crucial, and for residents near Lewisburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17857), a comprehensive understanding of local hospital performance is essential. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" by examining key metrics, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability, to help residents make informed decisions. The focus is on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering accessibility and the potential need for specialized care.

**The Landscape of Care:**

The healthcare landscape surrounding Lewisburg is primarily shaped by a few key players. Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg itself is a central figure. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a regional powerhouse, is also a significant option. Finally, smaller community hospitals and outpatient facilities contribute to the overall healthcare ecosystem.

**Evangelical Community Hospital: A Local Anchor**

Evangelical Community Hospital (ECH) is the closest major hospital to Lewisburg. It's a community-focused facility serving the immediate area. ECH's performance is a critical factor for residents in the 17857 ZIP code. Unfortunately, publicly available CMS star ratings for Evangelical Community Hospital are not consistently available. This makes a direct comparison with other hospitals more difficult. However, the hospital’s commitment to the community and its comprehensive services are important considerations.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

ER wait times are a crucial aspect of hospital performance. They directly impact patient experience and can be a matter of life and death. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, it's essential to consider average wait times. Accessing this data can be challenging, as it varies depending on the time of day, day of the week, and patient volume. ECH's ER wait times are generally reported to be in line with or slightly below the national average. However, it is always best to call the hospital directly or check their website for the most up-to-date information.

**Specialty Centers at Evangelical:**

ECH offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. The hospital has a dedicated cancer center, providing comprehensive cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, and support services. The quality of care within these specialties is a key factor in the overall health score for the hospital. Checking the hospital's website for recent accreditations and awards in these specialties is always a good idea.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for rural communities. It expands access to care, reduces travel time, and improves convenience. ECH has embraced telehealth, offering virtual appointments for various specialties. The availability of telehealth services is a positive indicator of the hospital's commitment to innovation and patient access. Details on specific telehealth offerings, including scheduling and technical requirements, can be found on the hospital's website.

**Geisinger Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Medical Center (GMC) in Danville, Pennsylvania, is a major regional medical center, approximately a 20-minute drive from Lewisburg. GMC is a flagship hospital within the Geisinger Health System, known for its advanced medical capabilities and research focus.

**CMS Star Rating:**

GMC typically receives a high CMS star rating, reflecting its overall quality of care. This rating is a valuable benchmark, providing a snapshot of the hospital's performance across various metrics, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. Checking the CMS website for the most current rating is recommended, as these ratings are subject to change.

**ER Wait Times at Geisinger:**

GMC's ER is a high-volume facility, and wait times can vary. However, the hospital strives to maintain reasonable wait times. The hospital’s website often provides real-time or near-real-time ER wait time information. This data is crucial for patients needing immediate care.

**Specialty Centers at Geisinger:**

GMC boasts a wide array of specialty centers, including a renowned heart institute, a comprehensive cancer center, and centers for neurosurgery, orthopedics, and transplant services. The hospital is a leader in several medical fields, attracting patients from across the region and beyond. The hospital's website details each specialty center's services, including the expertise of its physicians and the technologies used.

**Telehealth at Geisinger:**

Geisinger has been a pioneer in telehealth, offering a wide range of virtual services. This includes virtual appointments with specialists, remote monitoring programs, and virtual urgent care. The system's commitment to telehealth enhances access to care for patients in rural areas like Lewisburg. The Geisinger website provides detailed information on available telehealth services, including how to schedule appointments and the technical requirements.

**Other Healthcare Options:**

Beyond Evangelical and Geisinger, residents of the 17857 ZIP code have access to other healthcare providers, including smaller hospitals, outpatient clinics, and specialized practices. These options can provide additional choices for primary care, specialized treatments, and preventative care.

**Outpatient Clinics and Urgent Care:**

Several outpatient clinics and urgent care facilities are located near Lewisburg. These facilities offer convenient access to non-emergency medical care, such as treating minor illnesses and injuries. They can help alleviate the burden on hospital ERs and provide a more cost-effective option for certain types of care. Checking online directories and insurance provider websites can help locate these facilities and determine their hours of operation and services offered.

**Considerations for Overall Health Score:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare near Lewisburg must consider several factors. These include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** These provide a standardized measure of hospital quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times indicate better efficiency and patient access.
* **Specialty Center Availability:** Access to specialized care is critical for complex medical needs.
* **Telehealth Integration:** Telehealth enhances access and convenience.
* **Community Reputation:** Word-of-mouth and patient reviews provide valuable insights.
* **Accessibility:** The ease of reaching a hospital or clinic is a crucial factor, especially for those with limited mobility or transportation options.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital or provider accepts your insurance plan.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

Choosing the right healthcare provider is a personal decision. Residents of the 17857 ZIP code should consider their individual needs, preferences, and medical history. They should research the hospitals and providers in the area, considering the factors outlined in this review.

**Recommendations:**

* **Research:** Visit the websites of Evangelical Community Hospital and Geisinger Medical Center to learn more about their services, physician profiles, and patient resources.
* **Check CMS Ratings:** Regularly check the CMS website for the most up-to-date star ratings for hospitals.
* **Consider Telehealth:** Explore the telehealth options offered by local providers to enhance access to care.
* **Ask Questions:** Don't hesitate to ask your primary care physician for recommendations and insights.
* **Read Patient Reviews:** Research online reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the experiences of other patients.
* **Assess Your Needs:** Determine your specific healthcare needs and choose a provider that can meet those needs.
* **Understand Your Insurance:** Verify that the provider accepts your insurance plan and understand your coverage.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near Lewisburg, PA (ZIP code 17857) offers a range of options. Evangelical Community Hospital and Geisinger Medical Center are the primary hospitals, each with its strengths and weaknesses. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, residents can make informed decisions and access the best possible healthcare for their needs. The "Overall Health Score" is a dynamic assessment, and it's essential to stay informed about changes in the healthcare landscape.