17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Lewisburg, PA (ZIP Code 17864)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Lewisburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17864), understanding the quality and accessibility of nearby hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, offering a comprehensive view of available healthcare options.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Proximity**

The immediate vicinity of Lewisburg is served by a few key hospitals, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Proximity is a significant factor, impacting access to care, particularly in emergencies. The primary players include Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg itself, Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, and some smaller facilities offering specialized services.

**Evangelical Community Hospital: A Local Anchor**

Evangelical Community Hospital, located directly in Lewisburg, is a central healthcare provider for the area. It is a community hospital, offering a range of services from primary care to specialized treatments. Its convenience is a major advantage for residents of Lewisburg and the surrounding communities.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:**

Evangelical Community Hospital currently holds a **3-star rating** from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a hospital's overall quality, based on measures of patient outcomes, safety, patient experience, and efficiency. While a 3-star rating is considered average, it's important to delve deeper into specific performance metrics.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:**

ED wait times are a critical indicator of hospital efficiency and patient access. Evangelical Community Hospital's ED wait times are a mixed bag. Data from the CMS Hospital Compare website indicates that the average time to see a provider can fluctuate, but generally falls within the national average. However, specific wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition. It's advisable to check real-time wait times if possible, especially during peak hours.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Evangelical Community Hospital offers a variety of specialty services. It has a comprehensive cardiac program, including interventional cardiology. They also have a strong focus on women's health, with obstetrics and gynecology services. Other key areas include orthopedics, rehabilitation, and a cancer center. The hospital is also equipped with advanced imaging technology.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important for accessing care, especially in rural areas. Evangelical Community Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and access to specialists. The hospital's website and patient portal provide information on available telehealth options.

**Geisinger Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, approximately a 20-minute drive from Lewisburg, is a large, tertiary care center and a major regional referral hospital. It offers a broader range of services and specialists compared to Evangelical Community Hospital.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:**

Geisinger Medical Center consistently scores well in national rankings. It has a **4-star rating** from CMS. This higher rating reflects a strong performance in many areas of patient care.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:**

Geisinger Medical Center's ED is a high-volume facility. While the hospital handles a large number of patients, its ED wait times are generally comparable to or slightly better than the national average. However, wait times can vary depending on the volume of patients and the complexity of their conditions.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Geisinger Medical Center boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. It is renowned for its heart and vascular institute, cancer institute, and neuroscience institute. The hospital also offers advanced surgical procedures, including robotic surgery. The hospital's transplant program is also well-regarded.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Geisinger is a leader in telehealth. It has invested heavily in telehealth infrastructure and offers a wide array of virtual services, including primary care, specialty consultations, and remote monitoring programs. Geisinger's telehealth platform is user-friendly and accessible to patients throughout the region.

**Other Healthcare Options:**

Beyond Evangelical Community Hospital and Geisinger Medical Center, residents of Lewisburg have access to other healthcare providers. These include:

* **Smaller Hospitals and Clinics:** Some smaller hospitals and clinics in surrounding towns may offer specialized services or provide primary care.
* **Outpatient Facilities:** Numerous outpatient facilities, such as urgent care centers and ambulatory surgery centers, are available in the area.
* **Specialty Practices:** Numerous specialty practices, including cardiology, dermatology, and ophthalmology, are available in the area.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

Several factors should influence your choice of hospital:

* **Proximity:** The closer the hospital, the quicker you can access care, especially in emergencies.
* **Specialty Needs:** Consider your specific healthcare needs and whether the hospital offers the required specialists and services.
* **CMS Star Rating:** While not the only factor, the CMS star rating provides a general indication of hospital quality.
* **ED Wait Times:** Assess average wait times to understand how quickly you can expect to be seen in the ED.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Consider whether the hospital offers telehealth options for convenient access to care.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the patient experience.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital is in your insurance network.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the available data, the overall health score for hospitals near Lewisburg, PA (ZIP Code 17864) can be assessed as follows:

* **Evangelical Community Hospital:** A solid local option with a 3-star CMS rating. It offers convenient access and a range of services, including cardiology, women's health, and cancer care. ED wait times are variable but generally within the national average. Telehealth capabilities are expanding.
* **Geisinger Medical Center:** A higher-rated (4-star CMS) regional powerhouse with a comprehensive range of specialty services and a strong telehealth program. While slightly further away, it offers access to a broader network of specialists and advanced treatments. ED wait times are generally reasonable.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of Lewisburg (ZIP Code 17864) have access to a good selection of healthcare options. Evangelical Community Hospital provides convenient local care, while Geisinger Medical Center offers a wider range of specialized services. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and choose the hospital that best suits their individual circumstances. Regular monitoring of hospital performance metrics, including CMS ratings and ED wait times, is recommended to stay informed about the quality and accessibility of care in the area. The expanding telehealth options further enhance access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and chronic disease management. Ultimately, the best hospital is the one that meets your specific needs and provides the highest quality of care.