18657, Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Arthritis Score in 18657, Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Arthritis Care in Northeastern Pennsylvania: A Hospital Review Near 18657

Finding the right hospital for arthritis care can be daunting. This review focuses on hospitals near the ZIP code 18657 (Mountain Top, PA), providing a fact-rich overview of available services, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options. Access to quality care for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and lupus is critical, and this guide aims to help patients navigate their options.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes-Barre, PA): A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (GWVMC), located in Wilkes-Barre, is a major player in the region. It's part of the larger Geisinger Health system, known for its integrated care model. While not directly within the 18657 ZIP code, it's a readily accessible option for residents. GWVMC holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a facility's overall quality and performance based on various metrics.

GWVMC’s orthopedic department, often the primary point of contact for arthritis patients, offers a range of services. They provide both surgical and non-surgical treatments, including joint replacement, arthroscopy, and medication management. The hospital also has a dedicated rheumatology clinic, crucial for diagnosing and managing complex arthritis cases.

Regarding emergency room (ER) wait times, information can fluctuate. Patients should check the Geisinger website or use online tools like the "ER Wait Times" feature often available on hospital websites to get the most up-to-date data. Telehealth is a significant component of the Geisinger system. They have expanded telehealth offerings, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, which is particularly useful for follow-up appointments and medication management. Specific telehealth statistics, like the number of virtual visits for rheumatology, can be found on the Geisinger website or by contacting their patient services.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hazleton (Hazleton, PA): A Community Focus**

Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hazleton, located in Hazleton, is another option within reasonable driving distance. It provides healthcare services to the local community. Lehigh Valley Health Network is a large health system, and this hospital is a part of it. CMS ratings for individual hospitals can vary; it's important to check the most recent data on the CMS website.

The hospital's orthopedic department provides care for arthritis patients. They offer diagnostic services, pain management strategies, and surgical interventions. The availability of a dedicated rheumatology clinic is essential, so patients should confirm the specific services offered and the availability of rheumatologists.

ER wait times are a crucial factor. Patients should check the Lehigh Valley Health Network website or use online tools to get real-time estimates. Telehealth services are increasingly common, and Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hazleton likely offers virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. Information on telehealth utilization, including the number of rheumatology-related virtual visits, should be available through the hospital's website or patient services.

**Moses Taylor Hospital (Scranton, PA): Serving the Scranton Area**

Moses Taylor Hospital, located in Scranton, is another option within driving distance. While not directly in the 18657 ZIP code, it serves a significant portion of the region. Hospital CMS ratings can fluctuate, so it's important to verify the most current rating on the CMS website.

Moses Taylor Hospital's orthopedic department is likely to provide care for arthritis patients. They offer diagnostic services, medication management, and potentially surgical interventions. The availability of a dedicated rheumatology clinic is a key factor for patients with complex cases.

ER wait times are a significant consideration. Patients should check the hospital's website or use online resources to get the most up-to-date information. Telehealth services are becoming increasingly common, and Moses Taylor Hospital may offer virtual consultations. Specific data on telehealth usage, including the number of rheumatology-related virtual visits, can be found on their website or by contacting patient services.

**Other Considerations: Outpatient Clinics and Specialized Care**

Beyond the major hospitals, residents should also consider outpatient clinics and specialized care centers. These facilities often provide specific services like physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management.

* **Physical Therapy:** Physical therapy is a crucial component of arthritis management. Patients should look for clinics with experienced therapists who understand the nuances of arthritis and can develop tailored treatment plans.
* **Pain Management:** Chronic pain is a common symptom of arthritis. Pain management clinics can offer a range of therapies, including medication management, injections, and other interventions.
* **Rheumatology Practices:** Independent rheumatology practices are another option. These practices often provide specialized care and may have a closer doctor-patient relationship.

**Navigating the System: Key Questions and Resources**

When choosing a hospital or clinic, patients should ask specific questions:

* **Rheumatology Expertise:** Does the hospital have a dedicated rheumatology clinic or access to board-certified rheumatologists?
* **Treatment Options:** What range of treatment options are available, including medication management, physical therapy, and surgical interventions?
* **Telehealth Availability:** Are telehealth consultations available for follow-up appointments and medication management?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital or clinic accept the patient's insurance plan?
* **Patient Reviews:** What are other patients saying about their experiences at the hospital or clinic?

**Resources for Information:**

* **CMS Hospital Compare:** The CMS website (Medicare.gov) provides detailed information on hospital quality, including star ratings, patient satisfaction scores, and other performance metrics.
* **Hospital Websites:** Hospital websites are the best source of information about services, specialists, and telehealth options.
* **Healthgrades and Other Online Platforms:** Websites like Healthgrades provide patient reviews and ratings, which can help patients make informed decisions.
* **Your Primary Care Physician:** Your primary care physician can provide referrals to specialists and help you navigate the healthcare system.
* **The Arthritis Foundation:** The Arthritis Foundation offers resources and support for people with arthritis, including information on treatment options and finding healthcare providers.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for arthritis care is a personal decision. By researching the options, considering the factors outlined in this review, and asking the right questions, patients can make informed choices that meet their individual needs. Remember to check for the most up-to-date information on ER wait times, telehealth options, and CMS ratings, as these can change. This guide provides a starting point for navigating the healthcare landscape near the 18657 ZIP code and ensuring access to quality arthritis care.