18437, Lake Como, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 18437, Lake Como, Pennsylvania is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Asthma Care Near Hawley, PA (18437)

Finding the right healthcare for asthma can be a complex undertaking. This review focuses on hospitals near Hawley, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18437), assessing their capabilities in asthma management, considering factors like accessibility, specialist availability, and patient outcomes. We’ll delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each institution, providing a comprehensive "Asthma Score" based on publicly available data.

**Defining the Asthma Score**

The Asthma Score is a subjective assessment based on several key metrics. These include:

* **Hospital Quality Ratings:** Primarily CMS Star Ratings, which reflect overall hospital performance.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** A critical factor for acute asthma exacerbations.
* **Specialty Centers and Expertise:** Availability of pulmonologists, allergists, and dedicated asthma clinics.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Access to virtual consultations for convenient follow-up and management.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Measured through publicly available surveys.
* **Accessibility:** Geographic proximity and transportation options.

**The Hospitals: A Closer Look**

The primary hospitals serving the Hawley, PA area include those in Scranton, PA, and surrounding regions. Let's examine the leading contenders.

**1. Geisinger Community Medical Center (Scranton, PA)**

Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC) in Scranton, PA, is a significant healthcare provider within a reasonable driving distance of Hawley. GCMC is part of the larger Geisinger Health System, which is known for its integrated care model.

* **CMS Star Rating:** GCMC currently holds a **3-star rating** from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a mixed performance across various quality measures.
* **ER Wait Times:** While specific ER wait times fluctuate, Geisinger Health System generally reports average wait times that are competitive with other regional hospitals. However, these can vary depending on the time of day and patient volume.
* **Specialty Centers:** Geisinger has a strong network of specialists. Pulmonologists and allergists are available within the Geisinger system, offering specialized care for asthma patients. The system also has dedicated respiratory therapy services.
* **Telehealth:** Geisinger has invested heavily in telehealth services. They offer virtual visits with primary care physicians and specialists, including pulmonologists, which can be beneficial for asthma management and follow-up appointments. Telehealth options can be particularly valuable for patients in rural areas like Hawley.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores at Geisinger are generally average for the region.
* **Accessibility:** GCMC is located in Scranton, approximately a 45-minute drive from Hawley. Transportation options include personal vehicles and potentially public transportation, though the latter may be limited.

**Asthma Score: 7/10**

**2. Moses Taylor Hospital (Scranton, PA)**

Moses Taylor Hospital, also located in Scranton, offers another option for asthma care. It is part of the Commonwealth Health system.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Moses Taylor Hospital currently holds a **3-star rating** from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Moses Taylor can fluctuate. It's essential to check current wait times before seeking emergency care.
* **Specialty Centers:** Moses Taylor offers pulmonology services and access to specialists. The availability of dedicated asthma clinics may vary.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth services are available, but the scope and availability of virtual visits with pulmonologists should be confirmed.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores vary.
* **Accessibility:** Moses Taylor is located in Scranton, approximately a 45-minute drive from Hawley.

**Asthma Score: 6/10**

**3. Regional Hospital of Scranton (Scranton, PA)**

Regional Hospital of Scranton offers a variety of medical services, including pulmonology.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Regional Hospital of Scranton currently holds a **2-star rating** from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary.
* **Specialty Centers:** Regional Hospital of Scranton offers pulmonology services.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth services are available.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores vary.
* **Accessibility:** Regional Hospital of Scranton is located in Scranton, approximately a 45-minute drive from Hawley.

**Asthma Score: 5/10**

**4. Wayne Memorial Hospital (Honesdale, PA)**

Wayne Memorial Hospital in Honesdale, PA, is a closer option for residents of Hawley.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Wayne Memorial Hospital currently holds a **3-star rating** from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary.
* **Specialty Centers:** Wayne Memorial Hospital offers pulmonology services.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth services are available.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores vary.
* **Accessibility:** Wayne Memorial Hospital is located in Honesdale, approximately a 20-minute drive from Hawley.

**Asthma Score: 6/10**

**5. Other Considerations: Outpatient Clinics and Specialists**

Beyond the hospitals, several outpatient clinics and individual specialists in the region can provide asthma care. These may include:

* **Pulmonologists:** Independent pulmonologists in Scranton and surrounding areas offer specialized asthma management.
* **Allergists:** Allergists can diagnose and treat allergic triggers that exacerbate asthma symptoms.
* **Primary Care Physicians:** Many primary care physicians in the Hawley area provide initial asthma management and referrals to specialists.

**The Importance of Proximity and Transportation**

For individuals with asthma, especially those with severe or uncontrolled asthma, proximity to a hospital and ease of access are crucial. In an emergency, every minute counts. Residents of Hawley should consider the travel time to each hospital and the available transportation options. Public transportation may be limited in the area, so personal vehicles are often the primary mode of transport.

**Telehealth: A Growing Advantage**

Telehealth offers a significant advantage for asthma patients. Virtual consultations with pulmonologists and other specialists can:

* Reduce the need for in-person visits, saving time and travel.
* Facilitate regular monitoring of asthma symptoms.
* Allow for timely adjustments to medication and treatment plans.
* Provide convenient access to asthma education and support.

**Patient Satisfaction: A Key Indicator**

Patient satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the quality of care. While these surveys are subjective, they can highlight areas where hospitals excel or fall short in terms of patient experience. Reviewing patient feedback can help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Conclusion: Navigating Asthma Care in Hawley, PA**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care near Hawley, PA, requires careful consideration of several factors. Geisinger Community Medical Center and Wayne Memorial Hospital appear to be the most promising options, given their CMS star ratings, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities. However, individuals should also consider ER wait times, patient satisfaction, and the availability of specialists in outpatient settings. Consulting with a primary care physician and seeking referrals to pulmonologists or allergists are essential steps in developing a personalized asthma management plan. The "Asthma Score" provides a starting point for research, but the best choice ultimately depends on individual needs and preferences. Regular monitoring of symptoms, adherence to medication regimens, and proactive communication with healthcare providers are vital for effective asthma management.