17880, Swengel, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17880, Swengel, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Selinsgrove, PA (ZIP Code 17880)

The picturesque Susquehanna River Valley, encompassing the ZIP code 17880 (Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas), presents a unique healthcare landscape. Residents benefit from a mix of community hospitals, regional medical centers, and access to larger, specialized facilities within a reasonable driving distance. This review assesses the overall health score of the hospital options, considering factors like quality of care, accessibility, and specialized services.

**The Core Players: Geisinger Health System**

The dominant healthcare provider in the region is Geisinger Health System. Geisinger is a large, integrated health system with a strong presence in central Pennsylvania. Their commitment to value-based care and population health initiatives significantly impacts the overall health score for the area.

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

Geisinger Medical Center (GMC), located approximately 20 miles from Selinsgrove, serves as the flagship hospital for the system. It is a Level I Trauma Center, equipped to handle the most critical emergencies. GMC consistently receives high marks for quality of care, although specific CMS star ratings fluctuate. Recent data places GMC in the 3-4 star range, reflecting a solid performance but with areas for improvement. Patient experience scores, a critical component of CMS ratings, are generally positive, indicating a commitment to patient satisfaction.

GMC boasts a comprehensive range of specialized services. The hospital’s Heart Institute is nationally recognized for its cardiac care, including advanced procedures like complex valve replacements and minimally invasive surgeries. The Janet Weis Children's Hospital, located within GMC, provides specialized pediatric care, including a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). The hospital also houses a comprehensive cancer institute, offering advanced treatment options, including radiation oncology and medical oncology.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility:**

ER wait times at GMC can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases being treated. However, the hospital generally strives to keep wait times as short as possible. Real-time wait time information is often available on the Geisinger website and through mobile apps. Accessibility is generally good, with ample parking and clear signage.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Geisinger is a leader in telehealth, with a robust telehealth program that extends services to patients throughout the region. Telehealth options include virtual visits for primary care, specialist consultations, and chronic disease management. This is a significant advantage for residents in rural areas, providing access to care without requiring travel. Telehealth utilization rates have increased significantly in recent years, particularly for follow-up appointments and routine check-ups.

**Geisinger Shamokin Area Community Hospital (Shamokin, PA): Community Focus**

Geisinger Shamokin Area Community Hospital, approximately 30 miles from Selinsgrove, offers a more community-focused approach to healthcare. While not a Level I Trauma Center, it provides essential services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient services. CMS star ratings for this facility are generally in the 2-3 star range.

The hospital focuses on providing accessible care to the local community. It offers a range of primary care services, including family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics. It also provides specialty services, such as cardiology, gastroenterology, and orthopedics. ER wait times at Shamokin are typically shorter than those at GMC, making it a convenient option for urgent care needs. Telehealth services are also available at this location, expanding access to specialists.

**Other Considerations: Evangelical Community Hospital (Lewisburg, PA)**

Evangelical Community Hospital, located in Lewisburg, approximately 15 miles from Selinsgrove, provides another significant healthcare option. While not part of the Geisinger system, Evangelical offers a comprehensive range of services and is a well-regarded hospital in the region. CMS star ratings for Evangelical are generally in the 3-4 star range, reflecting a commitment to quality care.

Evangelical boasts a strong reputation for its cardiac care, orthopedic services, and women's health programs. The hospital has a dedicated heart center, offering advanced cardiac procedures and rehabilitation services. Its orthopedic department provides comprehensive care for joint replacements, sports injuries, and other musculoskeletal conditions. The hospital also has a well-equipped labor and delivery unit.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility:**

ER wait times at Evangelical are generally competitive with other hospitals in the area. The hospital has a convenient location and ample parking. Real-time wait time information is usually available online.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Evangelical has been expanding its telehealth offerings, providing virtual visits for certain specialties and primary care services. The hospital is actively working to integrate telehealth into its care delivery model to improve access and convenience.

**Specialty Care Access and Considerations:**

Access to specialized care is generally good for residents near Selinsgrove. The presence of GMC, with its nationally recognized specialty centers, provides access to advanced treatments and procedures. For certain specialties, such as neurosurgery and complex cancer care, patients may need to travel to GMC or other regional medical centers.

**Mental Health Services:**

Mental health services are an essential component of overall health. Both Geisinger and Evangelical offer mental health services, including inpatient and outpatient care. Access to mental health providers can be a challenge in rural areas, but both health systems are working to expand their mental health services, including telehealth options.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for residents near Selinsgrove, PA (ZIP code 17880) is favorable. The presence of a strong health system like Geisinger, coupled with the availability of other quality hospitals like Evangelical, provides residents with a range of healthcare options.

**Strengths:**

* **Comprehensive Healthcare System:** Geisinger's presence provides access to a wide range of services, from primary care to specialized treatments.
* **Specialized Centers:** GMC's Heart Institute, Cancer Institute, and Children's Hospital offer advanced care options.
* **Telehealth Integration:** Geisinger's robust telehealth program expands access to care, especially for those in rural areas.
* **Multiple Hospital Options:** Residents have a choice of hospitals, including GMC, Geisinger Shamokin, and Evangelical.
* **Commitment to Quality:** Hospitals in the area generally demonstrate a commitment to quality of care, as reflected in CMS star ratings.

**Areas for Improvement:**

* **CMS Star Rating Fluctuations:** While generally good, CMS star ratings can fluctuate, and some hospitals could improve their scores.
* **ER Wait Times:** While hospitals strive to minimize wait times, they can be a concern, especially at GMC.
* **Mental Health Access:** While services are available, expanding access to mental health providers, particularly in rural areas, remains a priority.
* **Travel for Specialized Care:** For certain specialized procedures, patients may need to travel to GMC or other regional centers.

**Conclusion:**

Residents near Selinsgrove, PA (ZIP code 17880) have access to a solid healthcare infrastructure. The Geisinger Health System plays a pivotal role, providing a comprehensive range of services and a strong commitment to value-based care. The availability of other quality hospitals, such as Evangelical, further enhances the healthcare landscape. While there are areas for improvement, the overall health score for this region is positive, reflecting a commitment to providing accessible, high-quality healthcare to its residents. Residents should research specific hospitals, their services, and their performance metrics to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.