Your Essential PIH Health Good Samaritan Guide: Navigating Your Healthcare Journey

Navigating the complexities of healthcare can often feel overwhelming. Whether you're seeking specialized treatment, planning a hospital visit, or simply looking for reliable health information, understanding your options is key. If you're in the Los Angeles area, PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital stands as a prominent institution, but how do you make the most of its services?

This comprehensive PIH Health Good Samaritan Guide is designed to simplify your healthcare journey. We'll explore everything from the hospital's rich history and diverse medical offerings to practical tips for your visit and valuable patient resources. By the end of this guide, you'll feel more confident and informed about accessing the high-quality care provided by PIH Health Good Samaritan.

What is PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital?

PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital, located at 1225 Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles, California, is a non-profit, 408-bed acute care teaching hospital. It's a significant part of the broader PIH Health network, known for its commitment to patient-centered care.

A Legacy of Care

Did you know that PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital is the oldest hospital in Los Angeles? Founded in 1885 by Sister Mary Wood of the Episcopal Church, it began as a modest nine-bed facility. Over its extensive history, it has consistently adapted to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the community. In December 2019, Good Samaritan Hospital officially joined the PIH Health network, a move that expanded PIH Health to include three hospitals and numerous outpatient clinics, strengthening their collective ability to provide comprehensive care across Southern California.

Who is PIH Health?

PIH Health is a non-profit, regional healthcare network serving over 3.7 million residents in Los Angeles and Orange Counties and throughout the San Gabriel Valley. Their mission is to provide high-quality healthcare without discrimination, contributing to the health and well-being of their communities. The integration of Good Samaritan Hospital into PIH Health brought together two organizations with a shared commitment to excellence and compassionate patient care.

Services Offered at PIH Health Good Samaritan

PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital is recognized for its outstanding tertiary services and advanced technology, housing several "Centers of Excellence" that draw patients from across Southern California and beyond. With 126 practicing physicians across 55 specialty areas, the hospital offers a wide array of medical services.

Comprehensive Medical Services

The hospital provides care across numerous specialties, including:

• Cancer Care
• Cardiology/Cardiovascular Services: Including cardiac cath lab, cardiac surgery, and coronary interventions.
• Gastroenterology
• Heart Care
• Imaging & Radiology: Offering advanced diagnostics like 3D mammography, high-field MRI, CT scans, and X-rays.
• Neurosciences: Including Electroencephalography (EEG).
• Orthopedics: Recognized for joint replacement and spine surgery, and listed among "60 Hospitals With Great Orthopedic Programs" in 2011.
• Pregnancy & Birth (Maternity/Perinatal Medicine): Featuring a Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and comprehensive neonatal specialty care.
• Rehabilitation Services: Including physical therapy.
• Transfusion-Free Medicine & Surgery Center

Specialized Care Units

Beyond general services, PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital features specialized units designed for specific patient needs:

• Emergency Department: Equipped to handle urgent medical needs.
• Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU): Providing advanced care for newborns, with 24-hour open visiting privileges for parents.
• Labor & Delivery Rooms: Private, homelike rooms equipped for labor, delivery, and recovery, with two support people allowed during labor.

Emergency and Urgent Care

For life-threatening emergencies, always call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital provides emergency services. For non-emergency transportation to and from the hospital, eligible patients (seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income patients) can inquire about a free transportation program when setting up their appointment.

Navigating Your Visit: A Practical PIH Health Good Samaritan Guide

Preparing for a hospital visit can reduce stress. Here’s what you need to know.

Preparing for Your Appointment

• Scheduling: You can schedule appointments online through the PIH Health website.
• What to Bring: Always bring your ID card.
• New Patients: If you are a new patient, establish a relationship with your primary care physician (PCP) and schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
• Specialist Referrals: For most specialties, your PCP will coordinate referrals. However, for allergists, dermatologists, OB/GYNs, and ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors within the PIH Health network, you may be able to self-refer.

Visitor Information and Policies

Visiting hours are generally from 8 AM to 8 PM, seven days a week, with consideration for the patient's needs and other patients on the unit.

• General Areas: Two visitors are permitted per patient at one time. Visitors in general areas of the hospital must be 12 years of age or older.
• Emergency Department: One visitor per patient is permitted.
• Specialized Areas: Visitors must be 16 years of age or older in Critical Care, Labor & Delivery, and the Infusion Center. Exceptions are made for siblings aged 3 or older in the NICU.
• Maternal-Newborn/Postpartum: Children of any age are allowed to visit the mother.
• NICU: Parents have 24-hour open visiting privileges.
• Health Precautions: Visitors showing signs of illness (cough, sore throat, etc.) may be denied entry. Masks may be required in certain areas like the Transitional Care Unit (TCU) or isolation precaution areas.

Parking and Directions

PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital is located at 1225 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90017.

• Drop-off/Pick-up: Patients can be dropped off and picked up at the hospital's main entrance on the east side of Witmer Street, utilizing the designated 5-minute zone.
• Parking Options: Both valet parking service and self-parking options are available.

Patient Resources and Support

PIH Health is dedicated to supporting patients beyond direct medical treatment.

Understanding Your Bill

Hospitals often have policies for financial assistance, also known as charity care, for individuals who cannot afford to pay. They may also offer discount payment policies for eligible patients, reducing bills to amounts similar to what Medicare or Medi-Cal would pay. If you have concerns about your hospital bill, you can inquire about these policies or even file a complaint through the Hospital Bill Complaint Program if you believe a hospital failed to follow discount payment, charity care, or debt collection requirements.

Leveraging the Patient Portal

The PIH Health patient portal is a valuable tool for managing your healthcare 24/7. Through the portal, you can:

• Access your medical information, including test and lab results.
• Make or request appointments, including telehealth appointments.
• Request prescription renewals.
• Communicate privately with your physician's office via secure messaging.
• View clinical summaries of your visits or hospital stays.
• Track vital information and wellness goals.
• Create proxy accounts for children or dependent adults.

Information from PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital prior to June 11, 2022, should be requested from the medical records department.

Community and Support Programs

PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital aims to provide compassionate healthcare services to meet the needs of its diverse community. This includes a focus on patient-centered wellness and disease prevention. They also offer pastoral services for all religions and denominations.

Why Choose PIH Health Good Samaritan?

What truly sets PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital apart in the bustling Los Angeles healthcare landscape?

Commitment to Excellence

The hospital is dedicated to continuously improving the quality of its care and services. This commitment is reflected in its accreditation by The Joint Commission, signifying adherence to rigorous standards of care and patient safety. It has also received recognitions such as the Patient Safety Excellence Award™ and America's 100 Best Hospitals for Orthopedic Surgery Award™.

Patient-Centered Approach

At the core of PIH Health Good Samaritan's philosophy is a patient-centric approach. Their facilities and services, from private rooms to family-centered care, are designed to promote comfort, dignity, and healing, ensuring personalized care for every patient.

Community Impact

With a history stretching back to 1885, PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital has been a cornerstone of healthcare in Los Angeles. Its integration into the PIH Health network further strengthens its ability to serve the community, providing advanced medical care and contributing to the overall well-being of residents.

Conclusion

Navigating healthcare can be complex, but with this PIH Health Good Samaritan Guide, you're now better equipped to understand and access the services offered by this historic and comprehensive medical institution. From its deep roots in Los Angeles to its modern, patient-focused approach and wide range of specialties, PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital strives to be a trusted partner in your health journey.

Do you have personal experiences or tips related to PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital that could help others? Share your insights in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Where is PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital located?

A1: PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital is located at 1225 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90017.

Q2: When was PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital founded, and when did it join PIH Health?

A2: PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital was founded in 1885. It officially joined the PIH Health network in December 2019.

Q3: What are some of the key medical services offered at PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital?

A3: The hospital offers a wide range of services, including Cancer Care, Heart Care, Imaging & Radiology, Orthopedics, and Pregnancy & Birth services, including a Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Q4: How can I access my medical records or communicate with my doctor's office at PIH Health Good Samaritan?

A4: You can manage your healthcare, access medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with your physician's office through the PIH Health patient portal.