18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Honesdale, PA (ZIP Code 18439)

Living with asthma requires proactive healthcare, and choosing the right hospital can significantly impact quality of life. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Honesdale, PA (ZIP code 18439), evaluating them through an "Asthma Score" lens, considering factors critical for asthma management: expertise in respiratory care, emergency services efficiency, access to specialized programs, and telehealth capabilities.

**Understanding the Asthma Score Framework**

Our "Asthma Score" isn't a formal metric but a comparative analysis based on readily available data and publicly reported information. We'll assess hospitals on several key criteria: proximity to 18439, overall CMS Star Rating (a general indicator of quality), Emergency Room wait times (crucial for asthma exacerbations), the presence of specialized respiratory care units or programs, and the availability and scope of telehealth services for asthma patients.

**Hospital Landscape: Immediate Vicinity**

The immediate vicinity of Honesdale, PA, presents a limited selection of major hospitals. This necessitates considering facilities within a broader geographic range to ensure access to comprehensive asthma care. The primary hospital serving the immediate area is Wayne Memorial Hospital.

**Wayne Memorial Hospital, Honesdale, PA**

Wayne Memorial Hospital is the local cornerstone of healthcare for the 18439 area. It's a community hospital and, as such, its resources and specializations differ from larger, tertiary care centers. Its CMS Star Rating is currently unavailable, indicating it may not meet the criteria for this rating system.

Emergency Room wait times at Wayne Memorial Hospital are generally reported to be in line with the regional average, but can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day and the severity of the patient load. It is vital to note that ER wait times are crucial for asthma patients, as timely intervention can prevent serious complications. Wayne Memorial does have an Emergency Department, providing immediate care for asthma exacerbations.

Wayne Memorial Hospital's Respiratory Therapy Department provides diagnostic testing and treatment for a range of respiratory conditions, including asthma. While it may not have a dedicated asthma specialty center, it offers essential services for managing asthma symptoms and providing acute care. Telehealth services are available, though the specific scope and availability for asthma management should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Expanding the Search: Regional Hospitals**

Given the limitations of local options, patients in the 18439 area should consider hospitals further afield. The following facilities offer more specialized resources and may be preferable for complex asthma cases or those requiring advanced care.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Wilkes-Barre, PA**

Approximately an hour's drive from Honesdale, Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre is a significant regional healthcare provider. It is part of the Geisinger Health System, known for its integrated approach to care. Geisinger Wyoming Valley holds a 3-star CMS rating.

Emergency Room wait times at Geisinger Wyoming Valley are typically available online and can be checked through the hospital's website or third-party platforms. Patients should monitor these times, particularly during peak hours, if seeking emergency care for asthma.

Geisinger Health System, in general, has a strong emphasis on respiratory care, including specialized programs and a Pulmonary Department. The specifics of their asthma management programs at the Wyoming Valley location should be confirmed directly. Telehealth services are a key component of Geisinger's healthcare model, offering potential for remote asthma monitoring, medication management, and education.

**Moses Taylor Hospital, Scranton, PA**

Located in Scranton, PA, Moses Taylor Hospital is another option, approximately a 45-minute drive from Honesdale. Moses Taylor is a community hospital, and its CMS Star Rating is unavailable.

Emergency Room wait times at Moses Taylor Hospital can be checked through the hospital's website or third-party platforms.

Moses Taylor Hospital has a Respiratory Care Department that provides services for asthma management. Patients should confirm the specific asthma-related programs and services available. Telehealth services may be available, so patients should inquire about their availability for asthma management.

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, PA**

Located further afield, approximately a two-hour drive from Honesdale, Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, PA, is a tertiary care center. It is part of the Guthrie Health System, and its CMS Star Rating is 3 stars.

Emergency Room wait times at Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital can be checked through the hospital's website or third-party platforms.

Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital has a comprehensive Pulmonary Department that provides care for a range of respiratory conditions, including asthma. Patients should confirm the specific asthma-related programs and services available. The Guthrie Health System has a robust telehealth program, offering potential for remote asthma monitoring, medication management, and education.

**Factors to Consider: Beyond the Score**

The "Asthma Score" is a guide, not a definitive recommendation. When choosing a hospital for asthma care, patients should also consider:

* **Personal Asthma Severity:** Individuals with severe or uncontrolled asthma may benefit from hospitals with specialized respiratory care units and advanced treatment options.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the chosen hospital and its specialists are within your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews and Reputation:** Research patient experiences and read reviews to gauge the hospital's overall quality of care.
* **Communication and Access:** Evaluate the ease of communication with the hospital's staff and the accessibility of appointments and follow-up care.
* **Specialized Services:** Consider the availability of allergy testing, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and asthma education classes.

**Telehealth: A Growing Asset**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in asthma management. It offers several benefits:

* **Remote Monitoring:** Allows healthcare providers to track patients' symptoms and medication adherence.
* **Medication Management:** Facilitates prescription refills and adjustments to treatment plans.
* **Patient Education:** Provides access to educational resources and support groups.
* **Reduced Travel:** Minimizes the need for frequent in-person visits, especially beneficial for those living in rural areas.

When evaluating hospitals, inquire about their telehealth capabilities for asthma management, including the types of services offered, the technology used, and the availability of support staff.

**Emergency Preparedness: A Must**

For asthma patients, having a clear emergency plan is critical. This includes:

* **Knowing your triggers:** Identifying and avoiding asthma triggers.
* **Having a written asthma action plan:** Developed in consultation with your doctor.
* **Carrying rescue medication (e.g., albuterol inhaler) at all times.**
* **Knowing when to seek emergency care:** Recognizing the signs of a severe asthma attack.
* **Having a readily available list of emergency contacts and medications.**

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care near Honesdale, PA (ZIP code 18439) requires a careful evaluation of available resources, considering proximity, CMS ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities. While local options are limited, regional hospitals offer more comprehensive care. Patients should prioritize their individual needs, consult with their physicians, and actively participate in their asthma management to ensure optimal health outcomes. Always confirm the most up-to-date information on services and wait times directly with the hospitals. Remember, proactive care and informed decision-making are key to living well with asthma.