17860, Paxinos, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17860, Paxinos, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Mifflinburg, PA (ZIP Code 17860)

The residents of Mifflinburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17860) have a few key choices when seeking hospital care, each offering a different blend of services, accessibility, and quality metrics. This review provides an overview of the major players, focusing on factors crucial to overall health, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to equip residents with the information needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**The Core Players: Geisinger and Evangelical Community Hospital**

The dominant healthcare provider in the region is Geisinger, a large integrated health system with multiple facilities within a reasonable driving distance of Mifflinburg. The closest major hospital is Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA. Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, PA, represents another significant option, offering a more localized approach. Both hospitals serve as critical access points for acute care and specialized services.

**Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA: A Regional Hub**

Geisinger Medical Center (GMC) in Danville is the flagship hospital of the Geisinger system and a major referral center for the region. GMC is a Level I Trauma Center, equipped to handle the most critical emergencies. It’s a teaching hospital, affiliated with the Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, which means it benefits from a constant influx of new medical knowledge and research.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality of care, patient experience, and other factors. While CMS star ratings can fluctuate, GMC has consistently maintained a respectable rating. It’s essential to check the most current CMS data for the most up-to-date assessment. The hospital's strong points often include its cardiology and cancer care programs, which attract patients from a wide geographic area.

ER wait times at GMC can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. While precise, real-time wait times are difficult to predict, it's wise to consider that a Level I Trauma Center will prioritize the most critical cases. Patients with less urgent conditions may experience longer waits. Geisinger provides online tools and apps that may offer estimates or updates on ER wait times, but these should be viewed as estimates only.

GMC boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. Its Heart Institute is renowned for its advanced cardiac care, including complex procedures. The Geisinger Cancer Institute offers a full spectrum of cancer treatment options, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. The hospital also has specialized centers for neurology, orthopedics, and women's health.

Telehealth is a significant focus for Geisinger. The system has invested heavily in telehealth infrastructure, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other digital health services. Telehealth options can be particularly beneficial for residents of rural areas like Mifflinburg, reducing the need for travel for certain appointments and follow-up care. The specific telehealth services available to patients in Mifflinburg would be determined by their insurance coverage and the type of care needed.

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

Evangelical Community Hospital (ECH) in Lewisburg offers a more community-focused approach to healthcare. It’s a smaller hospital than GMC, but it provides a wide range of services and is often more accessible to residents of Mifflinburg. ECH is a not-for-profit hospital, which means its primary focus is on serving the community.

ECH’s CMS star rating is an important indicator of its quality of care. As with GMC, the most current CMS data should be consulted for the latest assessment. ECH typically performs well in patient satisfaction surveys, reflecting a commitment to a positive patient experience.

ER wait times at ECH are generally shorter than those at GMC, particularly for less critical conditions. However, it's important to remember that wait times can fluctuate. The hospital’s website or app might provide estimated wait times, but these are subject to change.

ECH offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and a comprehensive women's health program. The hospital has a dedicated surgical center and provides a variety of outpatient services. While not as extensive as GMC’s offerings, ECH provides essential specialized care.

Telehealth capabilities at ECH are expanding. The hospital offers virtual visits and remote monitoring services, though the scope of these services might be more limited compared to Geisinger. The availability of telehealth options depends on the patient's insurance and the type of care required.

**Other Considerations: Accessibility and Transportation**

Accessibility is a crucial factor for residents of Mifflinburg. The distance to both GMC and ECH should be considered, along with the availability of transportation. Public transportation options in the area are limited, so personal vehicles are often necessary. Emergency medical services (EMS) are available, but response times can be affected by distance and traffic.

**Comparing the Options: Key Takeaways**

Choosing the right hospital involves weighing several factors. Geisinger Medical Center, with its Level I Trauma Center and extensive specialty programs, is the regional powerhouse. However, the longer ER wait times and the larger size of the hospital might be less appealing to some. Evangelical Community Hospital offers a more community-focused experience, shorter wait times, and easier access for Mifflinburg residents.

**Specific Considerations for Mifflinburg Residents**

For residents of Mifflinburg, the choice between GMC and ECH often comes down to the nature of their medical needs. For serious emergencies or complex conditions, GMC's advanced capabilities may be the best option. For routine care, less critical illnesses, and a more personalized experience, ECH might be a better fit.

**Telehealth's Growing Role**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, especially for those in rural areas. Both Geisinger and Evangelical offer telehealth services, allowing patients to access care remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists.

**Research and Preparation**

Before needing hospital care, residents of Mifflinburg should take the time to research their options. This includes checking the latest CMS star ratings, reviewing patient satisfaction scores, and understanding their insurance coverage. It’s also wise to familiarize yourself with the location of both hospitals and the routes to get there.

**In Conclusion**

The residents of Mifflinburg have access to quality healthcare options, with Geisinger Medical Center and Evangelical Community Hospital serving as the primary choices. The best hospital for a given individual depends on their specific needs, preferences, and circumstances. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each hospital, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they receive the best possible care. Regular review of CMS data, hospital websites, and patient feedback will help maintain an up-to-date understanding of the evolving healthcare landscape.