18462, Starrucca, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 18462, Starrucca, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating the Respiratory Landscape Near Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18462)

The search for optimal asthma care near Scranton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18462) demands a multifaceted approach. This review delves into the available resources, analyzing hospital performance, accessibility, and specialized services to help patients and their families make informed decisions. Focusing on a reasonable radius, we’ll examine hospitals that are readily accessible from the Scranton area, keeping in mind that travel time and ease of access are crucial factors for those experiencing asthma exacerbations.

**The Landscape: Key Players and General Considerations**

The healthcare landscape surrounding Scranton is dominated by a few key players, each offering a different blend of services. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses is paramount. A critical consideration is the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Star Rating system. This publicly available rating system provides a snapshot of a hospital's overall quality, based on factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While not the sole determinant of quality, it offers a valuable benchmark.

Another vital factor is Emergency Room (ER) wait times. For asthma sufferers, rapid access to care during a crisis can be life-saving. We'll look at publicly available data to assess ER wait times at the hospitals under consideration. Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma centers, pulmonology departments, and telehealth services will be examined, as these can significantly impact the quality and convenience of care.

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

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (GWC) in Wilkes-Barre, PA, represents a major regional healthcare hub. While not directly within the 18462 ZIP code, it's a reasonable drive for many Scranton residents. GWC is a large facility, offering a comprehensive range of services. CMS data indicates that GWC generally performs well, though specific star ratings fluctuate year to year. It is crucial to check the most up-to-date CMS data.

GWC's pulmonology department is a significant asset. They provide comprehensive diagnostic and treatment options for respiratory conditions, including asthma. This includes access to advanced pulmonary function testing, bronchoscopy, and specialized asthma management programs. They have a dedicated team of pulmonologists and respiratory therapists.

Regarding ER wait times, publicly available data (e.g., from websites like ERwaitTimes.com or hospital websites) should be consulted. These wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. The hospital's website will typically provide this data, or you can call the hospital directly.

Geisinger Health System, as a whole, has invested heavily in telehealth services. Patients may find access to virtual appointments with pulmonologists or other specialists, which can be particularly useful for routine follow-ups and medication adjustments. Check the Geisinger website for the most current telehealth options.

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

Located directly within Scranton, Moses Taylor Hospital is a convenient option for residents of the 18462 ZIP code. Moses Taylor is a community hospital offering a range of services. It is important to review the most recent CMS star ratings for Moses Taylor.

The hospital has a pulmonology department that provides care for patients with asthma and other respiratory conditions. While the size and scope of the pulmonology department may be smaller than at a larger regional center, it offers local access to care.

ER wait times at Moses Taylor are a critical consideration. Checking real-time wait times via the hospital's website or other online resources is essential, especially during an asthma emergency.

Moses Taylor may offer telehealth options, though the extent of these services should be verified directly with the hospital. Telehealth can be a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like asthma, providing remote access to care and support.

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

Regional Hospital of Scranton is another local option for residents of the 18462 ZIP code. This hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care and specialty care. As with the other hospitals, review the most recent CMS star ratings.

The hospital's pulmonology department is another critical factor. Investigate the scope of services offered, including access to specialized asthma clinics or programs.

ER wait times at Regional Hospital are a key consideration. Check the hospital's website or other resources for up-to-date wait time information.

The hospital may offer telehealth options. Contact the hospital directly to inquire about available telehealth services.

**Community Medical Center (Scranton, PA)**

Community Medical Center is a local option for Scranton residents. Check for the most recent CMS star ratings.

The hospital's pulmonology department is another critical factor. Investigate the scope of services offered, including access to specialized asthma clinics or programs.

ER wait times at Community Medical Center are a key consideration. Check the hospital's website or other resources for up-to-date wait time information.

The hospital may offer telehealth options. Contact the hospital directly to inquire about available telehealth services.

**Other Considerations: Beyond the Hospitals**

Beyond the primary hospitals, other factors contribute to effective asthma management.

* **Pulmonologists and Allergists:** Identifying qualified pulmonologists and allergists in the Scranton area is crucial. Research their credentials, experience, and patient reviews. Look for specialists who have experience managing asthma and are up-to-date on the latest treatment guidelines.
* **Specialized Asthma Clinics:** Some hospitals or private practices offer specialized asthma clinics. These clinics often provide comprehensive care, including education, medication management, and personalized treatment plans.
* **Pharmacy Access:** Easy access to a pharmacy is essential for refilling asthma medications and obtaining necessary supplies. Consider the proximity of pharmacies to your home and the availability of 24-hour pharmacies.
* **Support Groups and Resources:** Joining an asthma support group can provide valuable emotional support and practical advice. The American Lung Association and the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America are excellent resources for information and support.
* **Air Quality Monitoring:** Air quality can significantly impact asthma symptoms. Monitor local air quality reports and take appropriate precautions during periods of poor air quality.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is increasingly playing a role in asthma management. Virtual appointments with pulmonologists can be convenient for routine follow-ups and medication adjustments. Telehealth can also facilitate remote monitoring of asthma symptoms and provide educational resources. Check with each hospital and individual pulmonologists to see what telehealth options are available.

**Conclusion: Making the Right Choice**

Choosing the best hospital for asthma care near Scranton (18462) requires careful consideration of several factors. CMS star ratings, ER wait times, the availability of specialized pulmonology services, and telehealth options are all crucial.

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center offers a comprehensive regional resource, but travel time is a factor. Moses Taylor Hospital, Regional Hospital of Scranton, and Community Medical Center offer convenient local options. Research the pulmonology departments, ER wait times, and telehealth offerings at each hospital.

By combining this information with consultations with pulmonologists, consideration of personal preferences, and careful monitoring of asthma symptoms, patients and their families can make informed decisions and find the best possible care to manage this chronic condition effectively.