18925, Furlong, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18925, Furlong, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Doylestown, PA (ZIP Code 18925)

Navigating healthcare can feel overwhelming. For residents of Doylestown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18925), understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, examining key factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities, offering a clear picture of the healthcare landscape.

**Doylestown Hospital: The Flagship**

Doylestown Hospital, the most prominent healthcare provider in the immediate vicinity, consistently receives high marks. Its flagship status is reinforced by its consistent performance. The hospital is a part of Doylestown Health, a larger system that includes outpatient facilities and physician practices.

**CMS Star Rating:** Doylestown Hospital holds a respectable 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a strong commitment to quality.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times are a critical factor for any hospital. Doylestown Hospital generally reports wait times that are within the national average. However, these times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of patient cases. Checking real-time wait times through the hospital's website or other online resources is always recommended before heading to the ER.

**Specialty Centers:** Doylestown Hospital boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. The hospital is known for its advanced cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. Its Neuroscience Institute provides comprehensive neurological care, including stroke treatment and neurosurgery. The hospital also has a well-regarded cancer institute, offering advanced treatments and supportive services.

**Telehealth Initiatives:** Doylestown Health has embraced telehealth to expand access to care. They offer virtual visits for a variety of specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and certain follow-up appointments. This allows patients to receive care remotely, which can be particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those seeking convenience. The hospital is continually expanding its telehealth offerings to meet the evolving needs of the community.

**Other Hospitals in the Region**

While Doylestown Hospital is the primary healthcare provider in the immediate area, residents of 18925 have access to other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. These hospitals offer alternative options and may be preferred for specific specialties or services.

**St. Mary Medical Center (Langhorne, PA):** Located approximately 15-20 minutes from Doylestown, St. Mary Medical Center is another major hospital in the region. It is part of Trinity Health.

**CMS Star Rating:** St. Mary Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times at St. Mary Medical Center can vary, and it is recommended to check real-time data before visiting.

**Specialty Centers:** St. Mary Medical Center is known for its women's health services, including obstetrics and gynecology. It also has a comprehensive cardiovascular program and a robust surgical department.

**Telehealth Initiatives:** St. Mary Medical Center offers telehealth services, including virtual visits for certain specialties and remote monitoring programs.

**Abington Hospital – Jefferson Health (Abington, PA):** Located about 30 minutes from Doylestown, Abington Hospital is a large, tertiary care center affiliated with Jefferson Health.

**CMS Star Rating:** Abington Hospital generally has a 3-star or 4-star rating from CMS, depending on the year and specific metrics.

**Emergency Room Performance:** As a larger hospital, Abington Hospital's ER often handles a high volume of patients. Wait times can fluctuate, and it's crucial to check current wait times online.

**Specialty Centers:** Abington Hospital offers a wide range of specialty services, including advanced cancer care, comprehensive cardiac care, and a Level II Trauma Center. It has a strong reputation for its specialized medical and surgical programs.

**Telehealth Initiatives:** Abington Hospital has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual visits, remote monitoring, and other digital health services.

**Other Considerations: Accessibility and Convenience**

Beyond quality metrics, accessibility and convenience play a significant role in choosing a hospital. Factors to consider include:

**Distance and Transportation:** The proximity of a hospital to your home is a major factor. Consider the ease of access, traffic patterns, and available transportation options.

**Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its affiliated physicians are in your insurance network. This can significantly impact your out-of-pocket costs.

**Physician Referrals:** If you have a primary care physician, they can provide referrals to specialists and hospitals, which can streamline the care process.

**Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Online reviews and patient testimonials can offer valuable insights into the patient experience at a particular hospital. Websites like Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report provide ratings and reviews.

**Specific Needs:** Consider your individual healthcare needs. If you require specialized care, such as cardiac surgery or cancer treatment, research the hospitals that offer those services and their respective reputations.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Based on the available data, the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near ZIP Code 18925 is positive. Doylestown Hospital is the clear leader, offering a good balance of quality, comprehensive services, and accessibility. St. Mary Medical Center and Abington Hospital provide additional options, particularly for specific specialties or preferences.

**Doylestown Hospital:** Earns a solid "B+" grade. Its strong CMS rating, diverse specialty centers, and commitment to telehealth make it a reliable choice.

**St. Mary Medical Center:** Receives a "B-" grade. While its CMS rating is slightly lower, it offers valuable services and is a convenient option for many residents.

**Abington Hospital:** Awarded a "B" grade. Its comprehensive services and advanced specialty centers are a draw, but its distance and potentially longer ER wait times should be considered.

**Telehealth's Growing Role:** Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, providing convenient access to care and expanding the reach of healthcare services. All the hospitals in the area are investing in telehealth initiatives, which is a positive trend.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of Doylestown (18925) have access to quality healthcare options. Doylestown Hospital serves as a strong primary provider, complemented by the services offered by St. Mary Medical Center and Abington Hospital. When choosing a hospital, consider your individual needs, insurance coverage, and the specific services offered by each facility. Researching wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options will help you make an informed decision and ensure you receive the best possible care.