717-981-9000
Specialties at this Location
- Emergency Medicine
If you're having an emergency, please dial 911.
The emergency department (ED) at Penn State Hampden Medical Center is prepared to handle injuries and medical emergencies. We specialize in the assessment and treatment of patients with stroke, obstetrical and gynecological, urologic, orthopedic, and general heart and vascular concerns. We also have specially trained forensic registered nurses, called Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners who provide victims of sexual assault with compassionate and comprehensive care while providing evidentiary support.
The ED works with a network of physicians and advanced practice providers (physician assistants and advanced practice nurses) to ensure access to high-quality care in our community.
No matter what time of day or night, our emergency department is here when you need us.
Important things to know
What happens when I arrive?
You will be greeted by our registration staff and asked to provide basic information about your injury or illness. A registered nurse will evaluate your symptoms and check your vital signs, medical history and current medications. You may be seen by a provider in an area called triage. This will aid in beginning your workup as quickly as possible.
The triage process allows for identification of the more seriously ill or injured patients. These patients may be seen first, even if they arrive after other patients. We know that waiting can be frustrating, especially when you’re in pain or not feeling well, but we will care for you as soon as we can. If you or a loved one gets worse at any time while you are waiting, please immediately notify someone at the front desk.
What’s next?
You will either be taken to a patient care area or asked to be seated in the waiting area. Our ED staff may begin tests, including labs and imaging studies, if needed. It is our goal to reevaluate your condition periodically, but if you feel your condition has changed, let one of our staff members know immediately. Please do not eat or drink anything until first checking with one of our registered nurses.
What happens in the patient care area?
You will be examined by a physician and/or provider who specializes in emergency medicine. Based on your condition, you will receive additional tests and treatments. It may take two hours or more to get your test results. A registered nurse will keep you informed about what is happening with your treatment.
You may be asked the same questions by multiple members of our care team, so we have the most accurate information. This is done to verify your identity and provide you with safe, high-quality care.
How long does it take for specialist consultations, lab and imaging results?
If a specialty consultation with a physician who specializes in your illness or injury is required, it may take up to several hours. During this waiting period you will remain under the care of the ED physician and staff. The timing for your lab and imaging results may vary depending on the amount and complexity of the studies, as well as the hospital’s patient volume.
Can I have visitors?
To get the latest information about visitation, please go to Penn State Health is managing COVID-19.
What happens after I am treated?
If your illness or injury requires admission to Hampden Medical Center, the ED staff will make these arrangements and a staff member will transport you to an available bed. If your condition requires treatment that is not available at Hampden Medical Center, the ED staff will facilitate a transfer to an appropriate health care facility.
What happens when I am discharged?
Patients who are discharged will be given complete after-care instructions and prescriptions, as needed.
Patient Portal
My Penn State Health is a secure website where you can schedule appointments, email your health care provider, check test results, refill prescriptions and pay your bill.
Billing
For questions about your copay or the billing process, our registration team can assist you.
We value your feedback
Our goal is to provide each patient with the highest-quality emergency medical care. If you have any questions or concerns about the care you received in the ED, please contact the Patient Experience team at 717-981-8134, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.