17859, Orangeville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17859, Orangeville, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Lewisburg, PA (ZIP Code 17859)

The pursuit of optimal health often begins with choosing the right healthcare provider. For residents near Lewisburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17859), understanding the local healthcare landscape is crucial. This review offers an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like hospital quality, emergency room wait times, specialty services, and telehealth availability, providing a snapshot to aid informed decision-making.

**The Flagship Hospitals: A Deep Dive**

The cornerstone of any healthcare assessment is the performance of major hospitals. Geisinger Medical Center, located in Danville, PA, is a dominant force in the region, serving as a tertiary referral center. Geisinger is known for its integrated healthcare system, offering a wide array of services. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality metrics. Geisinger Medical Center currently holds a 4-star rating, indicating above-average performance in areas such as patient safety, readmission rates, and timely and effective care. This rating is a valuable benchmark for patients.

Another key player in the area is Evangelical Community Hospital, located in Lewisburg itself. Evangelical also holds a 4-star CMS rating, demonstrating a commitment to quality care within the local community. This hospital provides a broad range of services, including a well-regarded emergency department and specialized programs. The proximity of Evangelical to ZIP Code 17859 is a significant advantage for residents seeking convenient access to care.

**Emergency Room Performance: A Critical Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for patients. Both Geisinger Medical Center and Evangelical Community Hospital provide publicly available data on their ER wait times. While these times fluctuate depending on patient volume and severity of illness, understanding the average wait times can help patients manage expectations. Data from the Hospital Compare website, maintained by CMS, is a valuable resource for this information. It is important to note that wait times are just one factor to consider, and the quality of care provided is paramount.

**Specialty Centers: Accessing Specialized Expertise**

The availability of specialized medical care is another critical factor in assessing overall health. Geisinger Medical Center boasts a comprehensive array of specialty centers. These include nationally recognized programs in cardiology, cancer care, and neurology. Geisinger's Heart Institute, for example, is a regional leader in cardiovascular care, offering advanced treatments and procedures. The Geisinger Cancer Institute provides comprehensive cancer services, from diagnosis to treatment and support. The hospital also has a strong neurology program, addressing a wide range of neurological conditions.

Evangelical Community Hospital, while smaller than Geisinger, also offers specialized services. They have a dedicated Women's Health Center, providing comprehensive care for women's health needs. They also have a robust surgical program and offer specialized care in areas such as orthopedics and gastroenterology. The presence of these specialty centers within the local healthcare ecosystem significantly benefits residents.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Geisinger has been a pioneer in telehealth, offering a wide range of virtual care options. These include virtual visits with primary care physicians and specialists, remote monitoring programs for chronic conditions, and behavioral health services. Geisinger's telehealth platform allows patients to access care from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists.

Evangelical Community Hospital also offers telehealth services, although the scope may be somewhat more limited compared to Geisinger. They are actively expanding their telehealth capabilities to improve access to care for their patients. The availability of telehealth options is a significant advantage for residents in the 17859 ZIP code, particularly those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

**Other Healthcare Providers: A Broader Perspective**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, the healthcare landscape near Lewisburg includes a network of primary care physicians, specialists, and outpatient clinics. Access to primary care is essential for preventive care and managing chronic conditions. Patients should research local primary care physicians, considering factors like experience, patient reviews, and insurance coverage.

Specialists in various fields, such as dermatology, ophthalmology, and podiatry, are also available in the area. Patients may need to seek referrals from their primary care physicians to access these specialists. The availability of these specialists ensures that residents have access to comprehensive medical care.

Outpatient clinics provide a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, physical therapy, and laboratory testing. These clinics often offer convenient and cost-effective alternatives to hospital-based care. Patients should research the outpatient clinics in their area to determine which ones meet their needs.

**Overall Health Score: Key Considerations**

When evaluating the overall health score for the 17859 ZIP code area, several factors weigh heavily. The presence of two 4-star rated hospitals, Geisinger Medical Center and Evangelical Community Hospital, is a significant strength. These hospitals offer a wide range of services and demonstrate a commitment to quality care.

Emergency room wait times, while fluctuating, are a critical consideration. Patients should research the average wait times at local hospitals and consider them when making healthcare decisions.

The availability of specialty centers, particularly at Geisinger Medical Center, is a major advantage. Residents have access to specialized expertise in various fields, including cardiology, cancer care, and neurology.

Telehealth services, particularly those offered by Geisinger, are expanding access to care, especially for those in rural areas. Patients can access virtual visits, remote monitoring programs, and behavioral health services from the comfort of their homes.

**The Verdict: A Strong Healthcare Foundation**

The healthcare landscape near Lewisburg, PA (ZIP Code 17859) provides a strong foundation for residents. The presence of two 4-star hospitals, a comprehensive range of specialty services, and expanding telehealth options contribute to a favorable overall health score. Residents should research their healthcare options carefully, considering their individual needs and preferences. The availability of high-quality hospitals, specialized care, and convenient telehealth services empowers residents to take control of their health and well-being. While ER wait times require attention, the overall picture is positive. Residents of the 17859 ZIP code have access to a robust healthcare system that can meet a wide range of medical needs.