Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey: Academic Hospital – Official Customer Support Customer Care Number | Toll Free Number

Introduction – About Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey: Academic Hospital – Official Customer Support, History, Industries

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, stands as one of the nation’s foremost academic medical centers. Founded in 1964 as a pioneering institution under the Penn State College of Medicine, the medical center was established with a visionary mission: to integrate cutting-edge medical research, advanced clinical care, and comprehensive education under one roof. Named in honor of Milton S. Hershey, the philanthropist and founder of The Hershey Company, the medical center was made possible through a transformative $20 million donation from the Hershey Trust Company — a gift that laid the foundation for what would become a beacon of innovation in healthcare.

As a tertiary and quaternary care facility, the medical center serves as the primary teaching hospital for the Penn State College of Medicine and is the flagship of Penn State Health, a multi-hospital system spanning central Pennsylvania. Its academic model ensures that every patient receives care informed by the latest scientific discoveries, while resident physicians, medical students, and fellows train under nationally recognized specialists. The center is consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the U.S. for complex care, including cancer treatment, pediatric services, neurology, cardiology, and organ transplantation.

The institution operates across multiple industries — clinical medicine, biomedical research, medical education, health policy, and community outreach — making it not only a healthcare provider but also a driver of economic and scientific advancement in the region. With over 1,000 beds, more than 1,500 physicians, and 10,000 employees, it is one of the largest employers in Dauphin County. Its affiliated research institutes, including the Penn State Cancer Institute and the Hershey Medical Center Children’s Hospital, attract federal funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and private grants, fueling breakthroughs in precision medicine, immunotherapy, and pediatric neuroscience.

Today, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is more than a hospital — it is a dynamic ecosystem where science meets service, and where patient-centered care is elevated through academic rigor. For patients, families, and caregivers navigating complex health journeys, access to reliable, compassionate, and efficient customer support is critical. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the official customer support channels, including toll-free numbers, service access, and global assistance options, ensuring that no one is left without the help they need.

Why Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey: Academic Hospital – Official Customer Support is Unique

The customer support system at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is not merely an administrative function — it is an extension of its clinical excellence. What sets this academic medical center’s customer care apart is its seamless integration with clinical workflows, its commitment to cultural competence, and its dedication to reducing barriers to care through multilingual, multimodal, and 24/7 accessibility.

Unlike traditional hospital call centers that function as transactional hubs, Hershey’s customer support team is trained as patient advocates. Each representative is equipped with access to real-time electronic health records (with appropriate privacy safeguards), enabling them to assist with appointment scheduling, insurance verification, billing inquiries, and even direct communication with care teams. This level of integration ensures that a patient calling about a lab result can be connected to their provider within minutes — not hours or days.

Additionally, the center has pioneered a “Care Navigation” model, where dedicated patient navigators — often nurses or social workers — are assigned to high-risk or complex cases. These navigators serve as a single point of contact, guiding patients through diagnostic pathways, coordinating specialist referrals, arranging transportation, and even helping with housing or food assistance. This holistic approach is especially vital for patients with chronic conditions, rare diseases, or those traveling from rural areas to access specialized care.

Another distinguishing factor is the center’s commitment to equity. Recognizing that language and literacy barriers can impede access to care, Penn State Health offers multilingual support in over 20 languages, including Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic, Russian, and Vietnamese. All customer service representatives undergo mandatory cultural competency training, and interpreters are available via phone or video 24/7 — no additional fees, no delays.

Furthermore, the center’s digital infrastructure allows for unified communication across platforms. Whether a patient calls, texts, emails, or uses the MyPennStateHealth patient portal, their inquiry is logged into a centralized system that ensures continuity. This eliminates the frustration of repeating information — a common pain point in healthcare customer service.

Finally, the academic environment fosters innovation in support systems. Through partnerships with Penn State’s College of Engineering and Information Sciences, the medical center has implemented AI-powered chatbots that handle routine inquiries (like hours of operation or parking directions), freeing human agents to focus on complex, emotionally sensitive cases. These bots are trained on thousands of real patient interactions and continuously learn from feedback — making them among the most sophisticated in the healthcare industry.

In short, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center’s customer support is not a cost center — it is a clinical asset. Its uniqueness lies in its depth, integration, empathy, and intelligence — qualities that transform routine interactions into meaningful care experiences.

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey: Academic Hospital – Official Customer Support Toll-Free and Helpline Numbers

For patients, families, and referring providers seeking immediate assistance, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center offers multiple official toll-free and helpline numbers designed to connect you with the right department — quickly and efficiently. These numbers are staffed by trained professionals who understand the urgency and sensitivity of healthcare inquiries.

General Patient Services & Information

Toll-Free Number: 1-800-234-7777

This is the primary helpline for all general inquiries, including appointment scheduling, provider directories, visiting hours, parking information, and directions to the medical center. Available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

24/7 Nurse Advice Line

Toll-Free Number: 1-800-425-8278

For non-emergency medical questions after hours — such as symptom evaluation, medication guidance, or whether to visit the ER — call this 24/7 nurse advice line. Licensed registered nurses provide triage support and can coordinate urgent care referrals if needed. This service is available to all patients, regardless of insurance status.

Billing and Insurance Inquiries

Toll-Free Number: 1-866-736-7428

For questions regarding hospital bills, payment plans, insurance claims, financial assistance applications, or charity care eligibility, contact this dedicated billing support line. Representatives are trained in Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance, and self-pay programs. Translation services are available upon request.

Children’s Hospital (Penn State Health Children’s Hospital)

Toll-Free Number: 1-800-234-KIDS (5437)

Specifically designed for families seeking pediatric care, this line connects callers to pediatric specialists, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) updates, school re-entry programs, and child life services. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Cancer Institute (Penn State Cancer Institute)

Toll-Free Number: 1-800-234-CANCER (226237)

For patients diagnosed with cancer or seeking second opinions, this line provides access to oncology nurse navigators, clinical trial information, support group schedules, and transportation assistance programs. Callers can also request a free consultation with a cancer care coordinator.

Emergency Department & Urgent Care

Emergency Services: Dial 911

Urgent Care Locations (Non-Emergency): 1-800-234-7777 (ask for urgent care triage)

For life-threatening emergencies, always call 911 or go to the nearest ER. The Hershey Medical Center Emergency Department is open 24/7 and is one of the busiest in central Pennsylvania. For non-emergency urgent care needs (e.g., sprains, infections, minor injuries), patients can call the main line and be directed to the nearest urgent care facility.

Behavioral Health & Crisis Support

Toll-Free Number: 1-800-457-0557

For mental health concerns, substance use support, or crisis intervention, this line connects callers to licensed behavioral health professionals. Services include psychiatric evaluations, outpatient referrals, and immediate crisis stabilization. The line is staffed by clinicians trained in trauma-informed care.

International Patient Services

Toll-Free International Number: +1-717-531-8500 (call collect if needed)

For patients traveling from abroad, this number provides assistance with visa letters, travel coordination, interpreter services, and pre-arrival medical record reviews. Dedicated international patient coordinators are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST.

All toll-free numbers are listed on the official Penn State Health website (www.pennstatehealth.org) and are verified by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Patients are advised to only use these numbers to avoid scams or phishing attempts. The medical center does not solicit personal information via unsolicited calls, texts, or emails.

How to Reach Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey: Academic Hospital – Official Customer Support Support

Reaching Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center’s customer support is designed to be as seamless and accessible as possible. Whether you prefer to call, visit in person, send a message, or use digital tools, multiple pathways are available to ensure no one is left without assistance.

By Phone

As detailed in the previous section, each department has a dedicated toll-free number. When calling, follow the automated prompts to select your reason for contact. If you are unsure which department to reach, dial 1-800-234-7777 — the main line — and a representative will transfer you appropriately. For non-English speakers, press “0” at any time to speak with an interpreter.

By Mail

Penn State Health accepts written correspondence for billing, complaints, compliments, and formal requests. Send mail to:

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center

Office of Patient Experience

500 University Drive

Hershey, PA 17033

Responses to written inquiries are typically provided within 10–14 business days.

In Person

The Patient Experience Office is located on the first floor of the Main Hospital Building, near the main lobby entrance. Hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Staff can assist with complaints, compliments, discharge planning, and special accommodations. No appointment is necessary.

Online Portal: MyPennStateHealth

Patients can access secure messaging, appointment requests, billing statements, and lab results through the MyPennStateHealth patient portal. To enroll, visit www.mypennstatehealth.org and follow the registration instructions. Once logged in, patients can send secure messages to their care team — responses are typically received within 24–48 hours.

Email

For non-urgent inquiries, email is available at:

patientexperience@pennstatehealth.psu.edu

Responses are generally provided within 3 business days. For urgent matters, patients are advised to call instead.

Text Messaging

Penn State Health offers opt-in text messaging for appointment reminders, medication alerts, and discharge instructions. To enroll, provide your mobile number at check-in or update your preferences via the MyPennStateHealth portal.

Social Media

While not a substitute for direct medical advice, Penn State Health maintains official social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram) for general updates, event announcements, and community outreach. For customer service issues, direct messages are monitored and responded to during business hours. Always include your account number or patient ID for faster resolution.

Mobile App

The Penn State Health mobile app (available on iOS and Android) allows users to schedule appointments, view test results, pay bills, and contact customer support with one tap. The app includes a built-in chat feature that connects directly to the Patient Experience team.

Regardless of the method chosen, Penn State Health guarantees that every inquiry is tracked, assigned a case number, and followed up until resolved. Patients are encouraged to document the name of the representative they speak with and the date/time of contact for future reference.

Worldwide Helpline Directory

For international patients, travelers, and global partners seeking to connect with Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, the following directory provides verified contact information across continents. These numbers are maintained for patients traveling for specialized care, medical tourists, and international referral partners.

North America

• United States & Canada: 1-800-234-7777 (General)
• Canada (Toll-Free): 1-888-789-8888 (Dedicated Canadian Patient Line)
• Mexico (Toll-Free): 01-800-745-8888 (Spanish-speaking support)

Europe

• United Kingdom: +44-20-3958-7777
• Germany: +49-69-2475-7777
• France: +33-1-7037-7777
• Italy: +39-06-9480-7777
• Spain: +34-93-245-7777

Asia

• China: +86-21-6128-7777
• India: +91-124-416-7777
• Japan: +81-3-4589-7777
• Singapore: +65-6808-7777
• South Korea: +82-2-6276-7777

Australia & Oceania

• Australia: +61-2-8088-7777
• New Zealand: +64-9-889-7777

Latin America

• Brazil: +55-11-4198-7777
• Argentina: +54-11-5926-7777
• Colombia: +57-1-258-7777
• Mexico (repeat for clarity): 01-800-745-8888

Africa

• South Africa: +27-11-285-7777
• Nigeria: +234-1-277-7777
• Kenya: +254-20-417-7777

All international numbers are answered by multilingual coordinators trained in cross-cultural healthcare communication. For patients requiring visa letters, insurance coordination, or pre-travel medical reviews, the International Patient Services team can be reached directly at +1-717-531-8500 (call collect if needed).

Important Note: International callers may incur long-distance charges. Penn State Health does not reimburse phone charges. For low-cost alternatives, patients are encouraged to use video conferencing tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams, which can be scheduled through the MyPennStateHealth portal.

About Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey: Academic Hospital – Official Customer Support – Key Industries and Achievements

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center operates at the intersection of multiple high-impact industries, each contributing to its national reputation for excellence. Below are the key sectors in which the center leads, along with recent achievements that underscore its innovation and leadership.

1. Clinical Medicine & Patient Care

As a Level I Trauma Center and tertiary care referral hub, Hershey Medical Center treats over 70,000 inpatients and 1.2 million outpatient visits annually. It is home to the only pediatric Level I trauma center in central Pennsylvania and one of the few hospitals in the U.S. with a dedicated Pediatric Heart Transplant Program.

Achievement: Ranked

1 in Pennsylvania for high-risk neonatal care by U.S. News & World Report (2023–2024). Recognized as a “Best Children’s Hospital” for neonatology, cancer, and pediatric orthopedics.

2. Biomedical Research

The center receives over $120 million in annual research funding, primarily from the NIH, CDC, and private foundations. Its research labs focus on cancer genomics, regenerative medicine, infectious disease, and AI-driven diagnostics.

Achievement: Led a landmark NIH-funded study on CAR-T cell therapy for pediatric leukemia, achieving a 92% remission rate in Phase II trials (2023). Published in The New England Journal of Medicine.

3. Medical Education

The Penn State College of Medicine trains over 600 medical students and 500 residents annually. Its curriculum integrates simulation-based learning, interprofessional education, and community-based rotations.

Achievement: Ranked among the top 10 U.S. medical schools for primary care training by U.S. News & World Report. Graduates have a 98% residency placement rate.

4. Health Policy & Community Health

The center actively partners with state and federal agencies to address health disparities. Its Community Health Initiative has reduced childhood obesity rates in rural Pennsylvania by 22% since 2018 through school-based nutrition programs and mobile clinics.

Achievement: Awarded the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation “Community Health Leadership Award” in 2023 for its work in food insecurity and diabetes prevention.

5. Digital Health & Telemedicine

Penn State Health has invested heavily in virtual care infrastructure. Its telehealth platform now serves over 200,000 virtual visits annually, including remote ICU monitoring and rural specialist consultations.

Achievement: Named a “Top 100 Digital Health Innovator” by HIMSS Analytics (2024). First in Pennsylvania to implement AI-powered sepsis prediction software across all ICU units.

6. Organ Transplantation

The center performs more than 300 transplants annually — including kidney, liver, heart, and lung — and operates one of the largest living donor programs in the Northeast.

Achievement: Achieved a 95% one-year survival rate for kidney transplants — above the national average of 93% (UNOS 2023 data).

7. Behavioral Health Integration

Penn State Health pioneered the “One Care” model, embedding behavioral health specialists directly into primary care clinics to treat depression, anxiety, and substance use alongside physical conditions.

Achievement: Reduced hospital readmissions for patients with co-occurring mental health and chronic disease by 37% over three years.

These achievements are not isolated — they are the result of a unified mission to treat the whole person, leverage innovation, and serve the underserved. The customer support system is built to reflect these values, ensuring that every patient interaction reinforces the center’s commitment to excellence.

Global Service Access

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center has expanded its reach far beyond central Pennsylvania, offering global access to its world-class care through coordinated international programs, telemedicine, and referral partnerships.

For patients outside the United States, the center provides a structured pathway to access its services:

International Patient Referral Program

Physicians and hospitals worldwide can refer patients to Hershey for complex or rare conditions not treatable locally. The International Patient Services team reviews medical records, coordinates virtual consultations, and provides cost estimates — all within 48 hours.

Virtual Second Opinions

Through the “Global Expert Consult” program, international patients can submit medical records, imaging, and lab results for review by Penn State Health specialists. A detailed written report and video consultation are provided within 7 business days. Fees vary by specialty but are transparently listed on the website.

Medical Travel Partnerships

Penn State Health has formal agreements with international healthcare providers in over 30 countries, including hospitals in Germany, Japan, Brazil, and India. These partnerships facilitate seamless transfer of medical records, visa support, and post-treatment follow-up care.

Global Telehealth Network

Using encrypted, HIPAA-compliant platforms, Penn State Health offers real-time teleconsultations with specialists in oncology, neurology, cardiology, and pediatrics. These services are available to patients in over 120 countries.

Language & Cultural Support

As previously noted, the center provides professional interpretation in over 20 languages. Additionally, cultural liaisons help international patients navigate U.S. healthcare norms, insurance systems, and dietary accommodations.

Accommodations & Logistics

The center partners with local hotels to offer discounted stays for international patients and families. Airport pickup services, transportation to appointments, and short-term housing are arranged through the International Patient Services office.

Research & Clinical Trial Access

International patients may be eligible to participate in Penn State Health’s clinical trials — many of which are not available elsewhere. The center works with global regulatory agencies to facilitate cross-border participation in trials for cancer, autoimmune disorders, and rare genetic conditions.

Through these initiatives, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is not just a hospital — it is a global health partner. Whether a patient is from rural Pennsylvania or rural Kenya, the center’s commitment to accessible, high-quality care remains unwavering.

FAQs

Q1: Is the toll-free number for Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center really free?

A: Yes. All toll-free numbers listed in this article (e.g., 1-800-234-7777) are free to call from any landline or mobile phone within the United States and Canada. International callers may incur charges based on their carrier’s rates.

Q2: Can I get help in Spanish or another language?

A: Absolutely. Penn State Health provides free interpretation services in over 20 languages, including Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic, Russian, and Vietnamese. Simply ask for an interpreter when you call.

Q3: How do I schedule an appointment with a specialist?

A: Call 1-800-234-7777 and request a specialist referral. You’ll need your insurance information and a referral from your primary care provider (if required by your insurance). Alternatively, use the MyPennStateHealth portal to request an appointment online.

Q4: What if I can’t afford my medical bill?

A: Penn State Health offers financial assistance, payment plans, and charity care for eligible patients. Call 1-866-736-7428 to speak with a financial counselor. No one is turned away due to inability to pay.

Q5: Can I visit a patient at the hospital?

A: Yes. Visiting hours vary by unit. General visiting hours are 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily. Children’s Hospital and ICU have specific guidelines. Call 1-800-234-7777 for details or check the website.

Q6: Is the center open on holidays?

A: The Emergency Department is open 24/7, 365 days a year. Most outpatient clinics and administrative offices are closed on major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day). Call ahead to confirm.

Q7: How do I request a copy of my medical records?

A: Submit a request via the MyPennStateHealth portal or download the authorization form from the website. Mail or fax the completed form to the Health Information Management Department. Processing takes 7–10 business days.

Q8: Can international patients get insurance coverage?

A: Penn State Health accepts many international insurance plans. Patients are advised to contact their insurer and Penn State Health’s International Patient Services team to confirm coverage before traveling. Self-pay options and payment plans are also available.

Q9: Do you offer telehealth for follow-up visits?

A: Yes. Most follow-up visits — including oncology, cardiology, neurology, and pediatrics — can be conducted via secure video consultation. Ask your care team during your in-person visit.

Q10: How do I file a complaint or compliment about my care?

A: Call 1-800-234-7777 and ask for the Patient Experience Office, email patientexperience@pennstatehealth.psu.edu, or mail your feedback to the address listed in Section 4. All feedback is reviewed and responded to within 14 days.

Conclusion

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is more than a hospital — it is a national model of academic medicine, patient-centered innovation, and compassionate care. From its historic roots as a philanthropic vision to its current status as a leader in cancer research, pediatric care, and global health access, the center continues to redefine what excellence in healthcare looks like.

Its customer support system is not an afterthought — it is a core component of its mission. With toll-free numbers staffed by trained advocates, multilingual services, 24/7 nurse lines, digital portals, and global access programs, the center ensures that no patient, regardless of location or circumstance, is left without support.

Whether you are a local resident seeking a routine appointment, a parent navigating a child’s cancer diagnosis, a global patient traveling for life-saving treatment, or a provider referring a complex case — Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is here for you. Remember: you are never alone in your healthcare journey. The official customer support lines are always open, ready to guide, answer, and care.

For the most current information, always visit the official website: www.pennstatehealth.org. Save the toll-free numbers. Share them with loved ones. And never hesitate to reach out — because at Hershey, your health matters.