18510, Scranton, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Arthritis Score in 18510, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Arthritis Care in Scranton, PA: A Review of Hospital Options Near 18510

Scranton, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Lackawanna County, offers a range of healthcare options for individuals managing arthritis. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable proximity to the 18510 ZIP code, providing a fact-based assessment of their arthritis-related services, including factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information is crucial for patients seeking the best possible care for their condition.

**Geisinger Commonwealth Health System: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger, a prominent healthcare system in Northeastern Pennsylvania, is a significant player in the region. While Geisinger operates multiple facilities, the closest comprehensive hospital to 18510 is likely the **Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC)** in Scranton. GCMC is a large, acute care hospital. CMS data shows this hospital with an overall rating of 3 stars, as of the latest available data.

GCMC offers a range of services relevant to arthritis patients. They have a robust rheumatology department staffed by board-certified rheumatologists. These specialists diagnose and treat various forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, and gout. They utilize advanced diagnostic tools, including X-rays, MRIs, and blood tests, to accurately assess patients' conditions.

Regarding emergency care, GCMC's ER wait times can fluctuate. Publicly available data, often found on websites like ProPublica's Hospital Compare, provides insights into average wait times. Patients should consult these resources or call the hospital directly for the most up-to-date information. Long wait times can be a concern for individuals experiencing acute arthritis flares, making timely access to care critical.

Geisinger has invested in telehealth services. They offer virtual appointments for certain specialties, potentially including rheumatology. Telehealth can be a convenient option for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education, reducing the need for in-person visits. Patients should inquire about telehealth availability when scheduling appointments.

**Moses Taylor Hospital: A Community-Focused Option**

**Moses Taylor Hospital**, also located in Scranton, is another key healthcare provider in the area. Moses Taylor is a part of the Commonwealth Health System. CMS data shows this hospital with an overall rating of 3 stars, as of the latest available data.

Moses Taylor offers rheumatology services, providing diagnosis and treatment for arthritis and related conditions. They have a team of rheumatologists who are equipped to manage complex cases. The hospital also provides physical therapy and occupational therapy services, which are essential for arthritis patients to maintain mobility and manage pain.

Emergency room wait times at Moses Taylor are subject to change. Patients should check publicly available data sources or contact the hospital directly for current information.

Moses Taylor has been expanding its telehealth offerings. Patients should inquire about the availability of virtual appointments with rheumatologists or other specialists to see if telehealth is an option for them.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Outpatient Services**

Beyond the major hospitals, several other factors influence the quality of arthritis care. The availability of specialized centers, outpatient services, and support programs is crucial.

**Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation:** Both Geisinger and Moses Taylor offer physical therapy and rehabilitation services. These services are crucial for arthritis patients to maintain mobility, manage pain, and improve their quality of life. Look for facilities with experienced physical therapists specializing in arthritis management.

**Pain Management Clinics:** Chronic pain is a significant challenge for many arthritis sufferers. The availability of pain management clinics is essential. These clinics offer a range of treatments, including medication management, injections, and other therapies, to help patients control their pain.

**Support Groups and Patient Education:** Arthritis is a complex condition, and patients benefit from support groups and educational resources. Check if hospitals or local organizations offer support groups or educational programs for arthritis patients.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like arthritis. Telehealth offers several advantages, including:

* **Convenience:** Virtual appointments eliminate the need for travel, saving patients time and effort.
* **Accessibility:** Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.
* **Continuity of Care:** Telehealth allows for regular follow-up appointments and medication management, helping patients stay on track with their treatment plans.

Both Geisinger and Moses Taylor have invested in telehealth services, but the specific availability of telehealth for rheumatology appointments may vary. Patients should inquire about telehealth options when scheduling appointments.

**Assessing Hospital Quality: Beyond Star Ratings**

While CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality, they are not the only factor to consider. Patients should also evaluate:

* **Physician Expertise:** Research the rheumatologists at each hospital. Look for board-certified physicians with experience in treating your specific type of arthritis.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online patient reviews to get insights into the experiences of other patients.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Ensure the hospital is accredited by a recognized organization, such as The Joint Commission.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration, especially for patients experiencing acute arthritis flares. Long wait times can exacerbate pain and delay treatment. Patients should check publicly available data sources or call the hospital directly for the most up-to-date information on ER wait times.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for arthritis care is a significant decision. Patients near the 18510 ZIP code have several options, including Geisinger Community Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital. Both hospitals offer rheumatology services and other resources relevant to arthritis patients.

This review provides a fact-based overview of the available options, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, telehealth capabilities, and the availability of specialty services. Patients should use this information to research their options, consult with their primary care physicians, and make an informed decision that best meets their individual needs. Remember to prioritize factors like physician expertise, patient reviews, and insurance coverage when making your choice.