17872, Shamokin, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17872, Shamokin, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Watsontown, PA (ZIP Code 17872)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals readily accessible to residents of Watsontown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17872), focusing on key metrics like quality, accessibility, and specialized services. This is not a definitive ranking, but rather an informative overview to aid in informed healthcare decisions.

**The Landscape:** Watsontown, PA, is nestled in a region with a mix of community hospitals and larger regional medical centers. Proximity and ease of access are critical factors for residents, influencing choices in emergency situations and for routine care. The following analysis focuses on the hospitals most likely to serve this community.

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

Geisinger Medical Center (GMC) in Danville, PA, is the dominant healthcare provider in the region, a mere 15-20 minute drive from Watsontown. It's a large, tertiary care center and the flagship of the Geisinger Health System. GMC's size and scope mean it offers a broad range of services, from primary care to highly specialized treatments.

* **CMS Star Rating:** GMC currently holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating is based on a composite score reflecting performance across various quality measures, including mortality, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, and timely and effective care.
* **Emergency Department (ED):** GMC's ED is a high-volume facility. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, it's crucial to understand that wait times can be longer than at smaller facilities due to the complexity of cases handled. The hospital utilizes a triage system to prioritize patients based on severity. Expect to see wait times posted on their website.
* **Specialty Centers:** GMC boasts a comprehensive array of specialty centers. These include the Heart Institute, the Cancer Institute, the Neuroscience Institute, and the Women's Health Center. The hospital has a strong reputation for cardiac care, with advanced interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery capabilities. The Cancer Institute offers a full spectrum of cancer treatments, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. The Neuroscience Institute provides care for neurological conditions, including stroke, epilepsy, and movement disorders.
* **Telehealth:** Geisinger has been a leader in telehealth. They offer a wide range of telehealth services, including virtual visits for primary care, specialty consultations, and remote monitoring programs. This can be particularly beneficial for residents in rural areas, reducing the need for travel. The system has invested heavily in telehealth infrastructure and has a robust platform for virtual care.
* **Accessibility:** GMC is relatively accessible from Watsontown, with good road access. Parking is available, although it can be busy. Public transportation options are limited in the area.
* **Overall Health Score:** GMC scores highly due to its comprehensive services, strong specialty programs, and commitment to telehealth. The 4-star CMS rating reflects a commitment to quality. The large size can mean longer wait times in the ED.

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

Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, PA, is another important option, located approximately 15-20 minutes from Watsontown. It's a smaller, community-focused hospital, offering a range of services with a strong emphasis on patient-centered care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Evangelical currently holds a 4-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Department (ED):** Evangelical's ED is generally less congested than GMC's. Wait times are typically shorter, making it a good option for less critical emergencies.
* **Specialty Centers:** Evangelical offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. They have a well-regarded cardiac catheterization lab. The hospital has a strong focus on surgical services, including minimally invasive procedures.
* **Telehealth:** Evangelical is expanding its telehealth offerings. They offer virtual visits for certain specialties and primary care.
* **Accessibility:** Evangelical is easily accessible from Watsontown. Parking is generally available and convenient.
* **Overall Health Score:** Evangelical provides a solid level of care with a strong community focus. The shorter ED wait times are a significant advantage. The 4-star CMS rating indicates a commitment to quality.

**UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Regional Medical Center (Williamsport, PA): A Regional Presence**

UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Regional Medical Center, located in Williamsport, PA, is approximately a 45-minute drive from Watsontown. It is a regional medical center, part of the larger UPMC system.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Regional Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Department (ED):** The ED at Williamsport Regional Medical Center is another option for residents. Wait times can vary.
* **Specialty Centers:** The hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.
* **Telehealth:** UPMC has a robust telehealth platform.
* **Accessibility:** While the drive is longer, the hospital is accessible.
* **Overall Health Score:** This hospital offers a range of services. The longer drive time is a consideration.

**Other Considerations**

* **Rural Health Clinics:** The region surrounding Watsontown has several rural health clinics that provide primary care services. These clinics can be a convenient option for routine checkups, vaccinations, and management of chronic conditions.
* **Urgent Care Centers:** Several urgent care centers are located in the region. These facilities can be a good option for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, offering a faster alternative to the ED for certain conditions.
* **Specialized Care:** For highly specialized treatments, such as complex surgeries or advanced cancer therapies, residents may need to travel to larger medical centers outside the immediate area, such as those in Philadelphia or Pittsburgh.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient experience is a critical factor in overall health. Consider reading patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the quality of care and the overall experience at each hospital.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network. This will help minimize out-of-pocket expenses.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider your personal preferences when choosing a hospital. Some individuals may prefer a smaller, community-focused hospital, while others may prefer the comprehensive services offered by a larger medical center.

**Conclusion**

Residents of Watsontown, PA, have access to a range of healthcare options. Geisinger Medical Center is the dominant provider, offering a comprehensive array of services. Evangelical Community Hospital provides a strong community focus. UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Regional Medical Center is another option. The best choice depends on individual needs and preferences. Consider factors like CMS star ratings, ED wait times, specialty services, telehealth availability, accessibility, and patient reviews when making your decision. Remember to always seek immediate medical attention for life-threatening emergencies.