17920, Aristes, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 17920, Aristes, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Frackville, PA (ZIP Code 17920)

Navigating healthcare can feel like traversing a complex maze. For residents of Frackville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17920), understanding the landscape of available hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, analyzing key metrics to offer a clear picture of the healthcare options within a reasonable radius. We'll delve into factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability, aiming to empower informed decision-making.

**The Regional Landscape: A Focus on Proximity and Accessibility**

The immediate vicinity of Frackville doesn't boast a plethora of hospitals. Residents typically rely on facilities within a 20- to 40-mile radius. This review will primarily focus on hospitals in Schuylkill County and neighboring areas, recognizing that travel time and accessibility are paramount.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings: A Measure of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star rating system is a widely recognized benchmark for hospital quality. It provides a snapshot of a hospital's performance across various categories, including patient experience, safety, and efficiency.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill (Pottsville Campus):** Located in Pottsville, approximately 10 miles from Frackville, Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill is a significant player. As of the latest available data, it holds a **3-star CMS rating**. This rating reflects a solid performance, but indicates room for improvement compared to higher-rated institutions. The hospital offers a broad range of services, including a cardiac center, cancer care, and surgical specialties.

**Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital–Orwigsburg:** Situated closer to Frackville than Pottsville, this facility is a vital resource for the community. While specific CMS star ratings can fluctuate, it is essential to check the most recent data on the CMS website for the most up-to-date information. The hospital provides comprehensive care, including emergency services, inpatient care, and outpatient clinics.

**St. Luke's Hospital–Anderson Campus (Bethlehem):** While further afield (approximately 45-50 miles), St. Luke's Anderson Campus in Bethlehem is a major regional hospital. It frequently receives higher CMS ratings, often achieving **4 or 5 stars**. This reflects a commitment to quality and patient satisfaction. The Anderson Campus offers a vast array of specialized services, including advanced cardiac care, comprehensive cancer treatment, and a robust surgical program. However, the longer travel distance must be factored into any decision.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Metric**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of a hospital's efficiency and ability to handle urgent medical needs. Long wait times can be stressful and potentially detrimental to patient outcomes.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill (Pottsville Campus):** Publicly available data on ER wait times can vary. It's advisable to consult resources like the hospital's website or third-party platforms that track ER wait times. Generally, wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and overall patient volume.

**Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital–Orwigsburg:** Similar to Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill, monitoring current ER wait times is essential. Check the hospital's website or utilize online tools that provide real-time updates.

**St. Luke's Hospital–Anderson Campus (Bethlehem):** The Anderson Campus, being a larger facility, may experience varying ER wait times. While it has the capacity to handle a larger volume of patients, it's still important to check current wait times, especially during peak hours.

**Specialty Centers and Services: Addressing Specific Needs**

Beyond general care, the availability of specialized services is a key consideration. Patients with specific medical conditions require access to specialized expertise and resources.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill (Pottsville Campus):** This hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and surgical specialties. It's a good option for many common healthcare needs.

**Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital–Orwigsburg:** This hospital provides a comprehensive suite of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. It caters to a wide range of medical requirements.

**St. Luke's Hospital–Anderson Campus (Bethlehem):** The Anderson Campus excels in specialty care. It boasts centers for advanced cardiac care, comprehensive cancer treatment, and complex surgical procedures. It is a strong choice for patients requiring highly specialized medical attention.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. It provides remote access to healthcare professionals, offering convenience and potentially reducing travel burdens.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill (Pottsville Campus):** The availability of telehealth services should be confirmed through the hospital's website or by contacting them directly. Telehealth options can include virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists.

**Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital–Orwigsburg:** Check the hospital's website for information on telehealth services. The availability of telehealth can vary depending on the specialty and the specific needs of the patient.

**St. Luke's Hospital–Anderson Campus (Bethlehem):** St. Luke's Health Network has a well-established telehealth program. They offer a wide array of virtual care options, including primary care, specialist consultations, and behavioral health services. This is a significant advantage for patients seeking convenient access to care.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction: The Human Element**

Patient experience is a crucial factor. Consider patient reviews, testimonials, and surveys to gauge the overall satisfaction levels.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill (Pottsville Campus):** Explore online platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews to get an idea of patient experiences. Look for recurring themes, both positive and negative.

**Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital–Orwigsburg:** Patient reviews and satisfaction scores are available on various online platforms. Analyze these reviews to understand the hospital's strengths and weaknesses from a patient perspective.

**St. Luke's Hospital–Anderson Campus (Bethlehem):** St. Luke's Health Network typically scores well on patient satisfaction surveys. Research online reviews and patient testimonials to gain insights into the patient experience at the Anderson Campus.

**Other Considerations: Beyond the Core Metrics**

Beyond the core metrics, consider factors like:

* **Insurance Network:** Ensure the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Physician Availability:** Research the availability of specialists in your area.
* **Hospital Affiliations:** Consider any affiliations the hospital has with other healthcare systems.
* **Community Involvement:** Look for hospitals that are actively involved in community health initiatives.

**Overall Health Score Summary and Recommendations**

Based on the available information, here's a summary:

* **Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill (Pottsville Campus):** A solid option for general care, with a 3-star CMS rating. Check ER wait times and confirm the availability of desired specialty services.
* **Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital–Orwigsburg:** A valuable resource for the local community, offering comprehensive care. Monitor ER wait times and assess the availability of specific specialties.
* **St. Luke's Hospital–Anderson Campus (Bethlehem):** A strong choice for specialized care, with a higher CMS rating and a robust telehealth program. However, consider the longer travel distance.

**Recommendations for Residents of Frackville (ZIP Code 17920):**

1. **Prioritize Proximity:** For routine care and emergencies, consider Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill (Pottsville Campus) and Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital–Orwigsburg due to their closer proximity.
2. **Evaluate Specific Needs:** If you require specialized care, such as advanced cardiac or cancer treatment, St. Luke's Hospital–Anderson Campus (Bethlehem) is a strong contender, despite the longer travel.
3. **Utilize Telehealth:** Leverage telehealth services to access care remotely, reducing travel and improving convenience.
4. **Stay Informed:** Regularly check hospital websites and online resources for the latest information on wait times, services, and patient satisfaction.
5. **Consult Your Primary Care Physician:** Discuss your healthcare needs with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations and referrals.

This "Overall Health Score" review provides a starting point for navigating the healthcare landscape near Frackville. By considering these factors and staying informed, residents can make well-informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.