18463, Sterling, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 18463, Sterling, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Havens: A Review of Hospitals Near Waymart, PA (ZIP Code 18463)

Navigating hypertension, or high blood pressure, requires consistent care and access to quality medical facilities. For residents of Waymart, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18463), several hospitals offer varying levels of service in managing this prevalent condition. This review delves into the key aspects of these hospitals, focusing on their strengths and weaknesses regarding hypertension care, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**Geisinger Health System: A Regional Powerhouse**

The Geisinger Health System is a dominant healthcare provider in Northeastern Pennsylvania, with several facilities within a reasonable driving distance of Waymart. Their commitment to integrated care and a focus on value-based medicine makes them a significant player in the region.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes-Barre, PA):** Located approximately 40 miles from Waymart, Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (GWV) is a flagship facility. It holds a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest possible score, it indicates a generally good level of quality and patient safety. GWV offers a comprehensive cardiology department, crucial for hypertension management. They have specialized clinics for heart failure and other cardiovascular conditions, providing advanced care options. ER wait times at GWV can fluctuate, but generally average around 45-60 minutes, according to publicly available data. This can be a critical factor in emergencies related to hypertensive crises. Geisinger's strong telehealth infrastructure is another advantage. They offer remote monitoring programs for patients with chronic conditions like hypertension, allowing for more frequent check-ins and medication adjustments. This proactive approach can significantly improve blood pressure control.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center (Scranton, PA):** Situated closer to Waymart, around 25 miles away, Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC) also provides hypertension care. GCMC’s CMS star rating is 3 stars, similar to GWV. GCMC's cardiology department offers a range of services, including diagnostic testing and medication management. Emergency room wait times at GCMC tend to be comparable to GWV, fluctuating based on the time of day and patient volume. Telehealth services are also available at GCMC, mirroring the offerings at GWV, providing patients with convenient access to their healthcare providers.

**Lackawanna County Hospitals: Local Options**

Beyond the Geisinger system, residents of Waymart have access to hospitals within Lackawanna County, offering alternative choices for hypertension care.

**Moses Taylor Hospital (Scranton, PA):** Moses Taylor Hospital, also located in Scranton, is another option. While its CMS star rating is not publicly available, it provides cardiology services and is equipped to manage hypertension. ER wait times can vary, so it's advisable to check current wait times through online resources or by calling the hospital directly before seeking emergency care. Moses Taylor has been expanding its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options for certain conditions.

**Regional Hospital of Scranton (Scranton, PA):** Regional Hospital of Scranton, also in Scranton, offers cardiology services and can manage hypertension. The hospital's CMS star rating is not readily available. Emergency room wait times are variable, and patients should check current conditions before visiting. Regional Hospital has been increasing its telehealth services to provide more convenient access to care.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Outpatient Care**

Beyond the main hospitals, residents of Waymart should also consider the availability of specialized centers and outpatient care options.

**Cardiology Practices:** Several cardiology practices in the Scranton area offer specialized care for hypertension. These practices often provide comprehensive evaluations, medication management, and lifestyle counseling. Patients can consult with their primary care physicians for referrals to these specialists.

**Outpatient Clinics:** Many hospitals and healthcare systems operate outpatient clinics that provide ongoing care for chronic conditions like hypertension. These clinics offer regular check-ups, medication refills, and educational resources.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth plays an increasingly important role in hypertension management. All the hospitals and healthcare systems mentioned above offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, providing convenient access to healthcare providers and reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a significant consideration for patients with hypertension. Prolonged wait times can be detrimental, especially during hypertensive crises. Patients should be aware of the average wait times at the hospitals in their area and consider this factor when choosing where to seek care. Online resources and hospital websites often provide real-time wait time information.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Guide to Quality**

CMS star ratings provide a valuable overview of hospital quality. While not the only factor to consider, these ratings can help patients assess the overall performance of a hospital and identify potential areas of strength and weakness.

**Choosing the Right Hospital: A Personalized Approach**

The "best" hospital for hypertension care is ultimately a matter of individual needs and preferences. Patients should consider factors such as:

* **Proximity:** The distance to the hospital and the ease of access.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized cardiology services and clinics.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** The availability of telehealth services for convenient access to care.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** The average wait times in the emergency room.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** The overall quality of the hospital as indicated by CMS ratings.
* **Insurance Coverage:** The hospital's acceptance of their insurance plan.

**Conclusion: A Network of Care**

Residents of Waymart, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18463) have access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers capable of managing hypertension. Geisinger Health System, with its flagship facilities in Wilkes-Barre and Scranton, offers comprehensive cardiology services and robust telehealth programs. Local options like Moses Taylor Hospital and Regional Hospital of Scranton provide additional choices. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they receive the best possible care for their hypertension. Remember to consult with your primary care physician to develop a personalized treatment plan and to obtain referrals to specialists as needed.