17881, Trevorton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17881, Trevorton, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: A Review of Hospitals Near Sunbury, PA (ZIP Code 17881)

Finding the right healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an objective look at the hospitals serving the Sunbury, PA area (ZIP code 17881), focusing on key metrics to help you assess your options. We’ll examine factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities, offering a comprehensive “Overall Health Score” perspective. Note that this review is based on publicly available data and is current as of October 26, 2023.

**The Landscape: Key Hospitals in the Region**

The primary hospitals serving the Sunbury area are Geisinger Medical Center (Danville, PA), Evangelical Community Hospital (Lewisburg, PA), and UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury. Each offers a distinct range of services and caters to different patient needs. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses is crucial for informed healthcare decisions.

**Geisinger Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA, is the flagship hospital of the Geisinger Health System. It’s a major regional referral center, often attracting patients from a wide geographic area. Geisinger Medical Center holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates a solid performance across various quality measures.

Geisinger Medical Center boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. The hospital's Heart Institute is renowned for its advanced cardiac care, including complex procedures and research initiatives. Their Cancer Institute provides a multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment, offering surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Additionally, Geisinger has a strong presence in neurosciences, orthopedics, and women's health.

Emergency room wait times at Geisinger Medical Center can vary. While specific real-time data fluctuates, it's advisable to check online resources like the hospital's website or third-party platforms for the most up-to-date information. Given its role as a regional hub, expect potentially longer wait times compared to smaller facilities, especially during peak hours.

Geisinger is a leader in telehealth. They offer a wide array of virtual care options, including virtual urgent care, specialist consultations, and remote patient monitoring. This commitment to telehealth enhances access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Geisinger's investment in telehealth is a significant advantage, promoting convenience and timely access to medical expertise.

**Evangelical Community Hospital: A Community-Focused Approach**

Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, PA, provides a more community-focused healthcare experience. It is a smaller hospital compared to Geisinger Medical Center, but it offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to the local population. Evangelical Community Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS.

Evangelical Community Hospital excels in primary care and general medical services. They have a strong network of family medicine physicians and specialists. The hospital also offers specialized services in areas like cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. They are known for their commitment to patient-centered care and personalized attention.

Emergency room wait times at Evangelical Community Hospital are generally shorter than those at Geisinger Medical Center. However, it's still important to check real-time data before heading to the ER. The hospital's smaller size often translates to quicker processing times, particularly for less critical conditions.

Evangelical Community Hospital has been expanding its telehealth offerings. While not as extensive as Geisinger's program, they are increasingly incorporating virtual consultations and remote monitoring to improve patient access and convenience. This investment in telehealth reflects a growing trend toward providing care beyond the physical hospital walls.

**UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury: Local Access**

UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury, formerly Sunbury Community Hospital, is a smaller facility providing local access to care. It serves the immediate Sunbury community and surrounding areas. Information on CMS ratings can vary and should be checked with the hospital directly.

UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury focuses on essential healthcare services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient services. They offer a range of specialties, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. The hospital is a convenient option for residents seeking local medical attention.

Emergency room wait times at UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury are typically shorter than those at larger regional hospitals. However, wait times can fluctuate depending on the volume of patients and the severity of their conditions. It is always wise to check the hospital's website or call ahead for current wait times.

Telehealth capabilities at UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury are evolving. They are gradually incorporating virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring to enhance access to care and improve patient outcomes. The hospital's telehealth initiatives are a sign of their commitment to embracing technological advancements in healthcare.

**Analyzing the Metrics: Emergency Room Wait Times**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for patients needing immediate medical attention. While specific data fluctuates, understanding the general trends is essential. Geisinger Medical Center, as a regional referral center, may experience longer wait times, especially during peak hours. Evangelical Community Hospital and UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury, being smaller facilities, often have shorter wait times. However, it's crucial to verify real-time data before visiting any ER.

**Analyzing the Metrics: CMS Star Ratings**

CMS star ratings offer a valuable snapshot of hospital quality. Geisinger Medical Center's 4-star rating suggests a strong performance across various quality metrics. Evangelical Community Hospital's 3-star rating indicates a commitment to quality care, though there is room for improvement. UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury's rating should be confirmed directly with the hospital. These ratings are a helpful starting point for evaluating hospital performance, but they should be considered alongside other factors, such as personal experiences and specific healthcare needs.

**Analyzing the Metrics: Specialty Centers and Services**

The availability of specialized services is a key consideration for patients with specific medical needs. Geisinger Medical Center's comprehensive specialty centers, including its Heart Institute and Cancer Institute, are a significant advantage. Evangelical Community Hospital and UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury offer a range of essential services, but may not have the same breadth of specialized care. Patients with complex conditions may benefit from the expertise and resources available at Geisinger Medical Center.

**Analyzing the Metrics: Telehealth Capabilities**

Telehealth is transforming healthcare delivery. Geisinger Medical Center's robust telehealth program, with its virtual urgent care and specialist consultations, provides convenient access to care. Evangelical Community Hospital and UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury are also investing in telehealth, though their offerings may be less extensive. Telehealth is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations, enabling them to receive timely medical attention without traveling long distances.

**Beyond the Metrics: Patient Experience and Personal Needs**

While these metrics provide a valuable framework for evaluating hospitals, patient experience and personal needs are also crucial. Consider factors like the hospital's reputation for patient satisfaction, the availability of specific specialists, and your own preferences regarding the type of care you seek. Read patient reviews, talk to your primary care physician, and research the hospital's approach to your specific medical condition.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

Based on the available data, the "Overall Health Score" for the hospitals near Sunbury, PA (ZIP code 17881) can be summarized as follows:

* **Geisinger Medical Center:** Scores highly due to its 4-star CMS rating, comprehensive specialty centers, and robust telehealth program. However, patients should be prepared for potentially longer ER wait times.
* **Evangelical Community Hospital:** Offers a good option for community-focused care, with generally shorter ER wait times. The 3-star CMS rating indicates a commitment to quality.
* **UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury:** Provides local access to care, making it a convenient option for residents. Further information on CMS ratings and services should be obtained directly from the hospital.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital is a personal decision. This review provides a fact-rich overview of the hospitals serving the Sunbury, PA area, empowering you to make informed choices. Consider your specific healthcare needs, research the hospitals' specialties, and weigh the factors discussed in this review to determine the best option for you and your family. Remember to always verify real-time data, such as ER wait times, before seeking medical care.