18632, Mildred, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 18632, Mildred, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Respiratory Care Near Mountain Top, PA (18632)

Finding the right hospital for asthma care can be a daunting task. Residents of Mountain Top, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18632), have a few key options within a reasonable driving distance, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review analyzes the available hospitals, focusing on factors crucial for asthma patients: overall quality, emergency room (ER) efficiency, specialized respiratory care, and telehealth accessibility. Data is drawn from publicly available sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and third-party healthcare rating organizations.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Choice**

The immediate vicinity of Mountain Top doesn't boast a plethora of hospital choices. The focus, therefore, shifts to facilities within a 30-45 minute radius, encompassing Wilkes-Barre and surrounding areas. These hospitals serve as the primary care providers for the region, and their performance in asthma management is critical for local residents.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains Township, PA (Approx. 15 minutes)**

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center is a major player in the region. It’s part of the larger Geisinger Health System, known for its integrated care model. Geisinger Wyoming Valley holds a 3-star CMS rating, indicating average overall performance. While this isn’t the highest rating, it still reflects a commitment to quality, especially given the complexities of modern healthcare.

The ER at Geisinger Wyoming Valley is a crucial access point for acute asthma exacerbations. While specific ER wait times fluctuate, the hospital strives to meet the national average. Patients should be aware that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall patient volume. It's always advisable to call ahead or utilize online tools to check current wait times, if available.

Geisinger Health System has invested significantly in telehealth. This is particularly beneficial for asthma patients, offering virtual follow-up appointments, medication management, and educational resources. Telehealth can help patients manage their condition more effectively, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially during times of heightened respiratory illness risk. Geisinger's telehealth platform is accessible through various devices, making it relatively convenient for patients.

**Commonwealth Health Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, Wilkes-Barre, PA (Approx. 20 minutes)**

Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, part of the Commonwealth Health system, is another significant option for residents near Mountain Top. It's a large, well-established hospital with a broad range of services. CMS data shows a 3-star rating for Wilkes-Barre General, mirroring Geisinger Wyoming Valley's rating.

The ER at Wilkes-Barre General is a critical component of its services. ER wait times are a key consideration for asthma patients experiencing breathing difficulties. While precise, real-time wait times fluctuate, the hospital aims to provide efficient care. As with other hospitals, checking online or calling ahead for current wait times is recommended.

Wilkes-Barre General offers a range of specialty services, including pulmonary care. The hospital has a dedicated pulmonology department that provides diagnosis, treatment, and management of respiratory conditions, including asthma. This department typically includes board-certified pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and nurses specializing in respiratory care.

Commonwealth Health has also expanded its telehealth capabilities. Patients can access virtual appointments, medication refills, and educational materials through its telehealth platform. This offers a convenient alternative to in-person visits for routine check-ups and medication adjustments.

**Other Considerations: Specialized Care and Proximity**

While Geisinger Wyoming Valley and Wilkes-Barre General are the closest major hospitals, other facilities might be considered depending on individual needs and preferences.

**Lackawanna Medical Center, Scranton, PA (Approx. 45 minutes)**

Located in Scranton, Lackawanna Medical Center offers another option. It is part of the Commonwealth Health system. The hospital's proximity to Mountain Top is slightly farther than the Wilkes-Barre hospitals, but it still provides access to a range of services.

**Specialty Centers and Pulmonary Expertise**

When considering asthma care, the availability of specialized pulmonary centers is crucial. Both Geisinger Wyoming Valley and Wilkes-Barre General have pulmonary departments, but the scope and expertise can vary. Patients should inquire about the specific services offered, including access to advanced diagnostic tools like pulmonary function testing (PFTs) and bronchoscopy.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a major concern for asthma patients. Prolonged waits can be detrimental during an asthma attack. While hospitals strive to minimize wait times, factors like patient volume and the severity of the condition can impact the waiting period. Patients should familiarize themselves with the ER procedures at each hospital, including triage protocols and the availability of rapid assessment for respiratory distress.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Gap**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in asthma management. Both Geisinger and Commonwealth Health offer telehealth services, providing virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring. This can significantly improve asthma control by allowing patients to access care from the comfort of their homes, especially for routine check-ups and medication adjustments.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Snapshot of Quality**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. While not the only factor to consider, these ratings offer a valuable benchmark. Both Geisinger Wyoming Valley and Wilkes-Barre General hold 3-star ratings, which indicates that they meet the minimum standards for quality.

**Patient Reviews and Experiences**

Patient reviews and testimonials provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Online platforms such as Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews offer a wealth of information on patient satisfaction, wait times, and the quality of care. Reading these reviews can help patients make informed decisions about where to seek care.

**The Asthma Score: A Summary**

For residents of Mountain Top, PA (18632), the best hospital choice depends on individual needs and priorities. Geisinger Wyoming Valley and Wilkes-Barre General are the closest major hospitals, offering a range of services, including pulmonary care and telehealth options. Both hospitals have 3-star CMS ratings. While ER wait times can fluctuate, both hospitals strive to provide efficient care. Consider proximity, specialized services, telehealth access, and patient reviews when making a decision. It is always advisable to contact the hospitals directly to inquire about specific services, current wait times, and any specific needs.