18428, Hawley, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18428, Hawley, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Poconos: A Review of Hospitals Near 18428

Finding the right healthcare, especially when facing a diagnosis like breast cancer, is paramount. This review examines the hospitals offering breast cancer services in and around the 18428 ZIP code, located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. We’ll delve into their capabilities, focusing on factors crucial for informed decision-making, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The 18428 ZIP code, encompassing the town of Hawley and surrounding areas, presents a unique challenge in healthcare access. While the region offers scenic beauty, it also necessitates considering travel distance to specialized medical facilities. The primary hospitals serving this area are located in Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, and surrounding towns, requiring residents to factor in travel time, especially in winter.

**Geisinger Health System: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Health System is a significant player in the region, offering a comprehensive network of care. While no Geisinger hospital is directly in Hawley, several are within a reasonable driving distance.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center (Scranton):** Located approximately 30 miles from Hawley, Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC) is a key facility. GCMC has a 3-star CMS rating, which indicates average performance compared to other hospitals nationwide. This rating is based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. GCMC's emergency room wait times fluctuate, but patients should anticipate an average wait time of around 45 minutes, though this can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. GCMC offers a breast cancer program, providing diagnostic services, surgical options, and access to chemotherapy and radiation oncology. Specific details on the program, including the number of breast cancer cases treated annually and the availability of specialized breast surgeons, can be found on the Geisinger website. Telehealth services are available, allowing for virtual consultations with specialists, which can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments or initial consultations, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes-Barre):** Located approximately 40 miles from Hawley, Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (GWVMC) is another important option. GWVMC has a 4-star CMS rating, indicating better-than-average performance. The emergency room wait times at GWVMC tend to be similar to GCMC, averaging around 45 minutes. GWVMC offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. The hospital's breast center is equipped with advanced imaging technology, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of early-stage breast cancers. GWVMC also has a dedicated breast cancer support group and offers access to clinical trials, providing patients with opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research. Telehealth options are available, including virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists.

**Commonwealth Health: A Local Presence**

Commonwealth Health is another significant healthcare provider in the region.

**Moses Taylor Hospital (Scranton):** Moses Taylor Hospital, located in Scranton, is approximately 30 miles from Hawley. Moses Taylor Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. Emergency room wait times at Moses Taylor can vary, but patients should anticipate an average wait time of around 60 minutes. Moses Taylor offers a breast health center that provides diagnostic services, including mammography and ultrasound. The hospital also provides surgical options for breast cancer treatment. Details regarding the hospital's breast cancer program, including the availability of medical oncology and radiation oncology services, should be confirmed directly with the hospital. Telehealth options may be available, but specifics should be confirmed with the hospital.

**Regional Hospital of Scranton:** Located in Scranton, Regional Hospital of Scranton is approximately 30 miles from Hawley. Regional Hospital of Scranton has a 3-star CMS rating. Emergency room wait times at Regional Hospital of Scranton can vary, but patients should anticipate an average wait time of around 60 minutes. Regional Hospital of Scranton offers a breast health center that provides diagnostic services, including mammography and ultrasound. The hospital also provides surgical options for breast cancer treatment. Details regarding the hospital's breast cancer program, including the availability of medical oncology and radiation oncology services, should be confirmed directly with the hospital. Telehealth options may be available, but specifics should be confirmed with the hospital.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Patient Experience**

Beyond the core services, consider the availability of specialized breast cancer centers. These centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to provide coordinated care. Inquire about the center's accreditation, which can indicate adherence to specific quality standards. Ask about the availability of genetic counseling and testing, which can be crucial for individuals with a family history of breast cancer. Patient reviews and testimonials can offer valuable insights into the patient experience, including the quality of communication, the responsiveness of the staff, and the overall level of care.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Many hospitals offer virtual consultations, allowing patients to connect with specialists remotely. This can reduce the need for frequent travel, especially for follow-up appointments or consultations. Inquire about the specific telehealth services offered by each hospital, including the types of appointments available and the technology used.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a key consideration, especially in urgent situations. While wait times can fluctuate, understanding the average wait times for each hospital can help you make informed decisions. Check the hospital's website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.

**CMS Star Ratings: A General Guide**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings provide a general overview of hospital performance. These ratings are based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While these ratings should not be the sole factor in your decision, they can be a useful starting point for evaluating hospitals.

**Making Your Choice: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a highly personal decision. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and priorities. Factors to weigh include:

* **Proximity:** How far are you willing to travel for appointments and treatment?
* **Specialized Services:** Does the hospital offer the specific services you need, such as advanced imaging, genetic counseling, or access to clinical trials?
* **Physician Expertise:** Research the qualifications and experience of the surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists.
* **Patient Experience:** Read reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the patient experience.
* **Telehealth Options:** Can you utilize telehealth services to reduce the need for travel?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.

**Conclusion: Informed Decisions for Better Outcomes**

Navigating the healthcare landscape near the 18428 ZIP code requires careful consideration. By evaluating the hospitals based on their CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth options, you can make informed decisions that best meet your individual needs. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and other healthcare professionals to develop a personalized care plan. The information provided in this review is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.