18466, Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 18466, Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18466)

The Pocono Mountains region, encompassing the Scranton, PA area (ZIP Code 18466), presents a unique healthcare landscape for individuals managing hypertension. Access to quality care, including specialized hypertension management, varies depending on location and the specific needs of the patient. This review analyzes hospitals within a reasonable radius, focusing on key factors for hypertension patients: overall quality, emergency care, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities.

**Defining the Scope:**

This review focuses on hospitals within a 50-mile radius of ZIP Code 18466, including Scranton and its surrounding areas. This geographic scope allows for a practical assessment of available healthcare options for residents.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a snapshot of overall quality. While not the sole determinant of excellence, CMS ratings are a valuable starting point.

Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, PA, is a prominent hospital within the region. CMS data for Geisinger Community Medical Center, and other regional hospitals, should be consulted for the most up-to-date star ratings. These ratings reflect various aspects of care, including patient experience, safety, and effectiveness.

Another key player is Moses Taylor Hospital, also in Scranton. Similar to Geisinger, its CMS star rating should be reviewed to gauge its overall performance. Both hospitals offer comprehensive services, including cardiology departments that are crucial for hypertension management.

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

For individuals experiencing hypertensive crises, timely access to emergency care is paramount. ER wait times can vary significantly between hospitals, impacting patient outcomes.

Geisinger Community Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital, both in Scranton, are the closest major hospitals for residents of 18466. Patients should be aware of typical wait times, which can fluctuate based on the time of day, day of the week, and overall patient volume. Real-time wait time information is often available on hospital websites or through third-party platforms.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Expertise:**

Effective hypertension management often requires specialized care. Cardiology departments are central to this, providing diagnostic testing, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.

Both Geisinger Community Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital have established cardiology departments. These departments typically offer a range of services, including echocardiograms, stress tests, and cardiac catheterizations. Patients with complex hypertension cases may benefit from consultation with cardiologists specializing in hypertension management.

Beyond cardiology, other specialties play a role. Nephrologists (kidney specialists) are essential for patients with hypertension-related kidney disease. Endocrinologists (hormone specialists) can address underlying endocrine disorders that may contribute to hypertension.

**Telehealth Capabilities: Expanding Access to Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. Remote monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management can improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans.

Geisinger Health System has been a leader in telehealth initiatives. Patients should investigate the availability of virtual visits with cardiologists, primary care physicians, and other specialists. Remote blood pressure monitoring programs are another valuable telehealth tool, allowing for proactive management and early intervention.

Moses Taylor Hospital may also offer telehealth services, though the scope and availability should be confirmed directly. Patients should inquire about options for virtual follow-up appointments, medication refills, and educational resources.

**Hospital-Specific Details:**

**Geisinger Community Medical Center:** This hospital is a major regional provider. Its cardiology department offers a wide array of services. Check the hospital website for information on specific hypertension clinics or specialized programs. Investigate the availability of remote blood pressure monitoring and virtual consultations.

**Moses Taylor Hospital:** Another key player in Scranton, Moses Taylor also offers cardiology services. Verify the hospital's telehealth offerings, including virtual appointments and remote monitoring options.

**Other Considerations:**

* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists accept your insurance plan.
* **Physician Availability:** Confirm the availability of cardiologists and other specialists who are accepting new patients.
* **Patient Reviews:** Research patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the quality of care and patient experience.
* **Hospital Affiliations:** Explore any affiliations the hospitals have with larger health systems, as this may impact access to specialized services or research.

**Navigating the Healthcare System:**

Managing hypertension requires proactive engagement with the healthcare system. Patients should:

* **Establish a Primary Care Physician:** A primary care physician can provide ongoing monitoring, medication management, and referrals to specialists.
* **Schedule Regular Check-ups:** Routine blood pressure checks and follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring progress and adjusting treatment plans.
* **Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle:** Diet, exercise, and stress management play crucial roles in controlling hypertension.
* **Adhere to Medication Regimen:** Take prescribed medications as directed and report any side effects to your doctor.
* **Educate Yourself:** Learn about hypertension, its risk factors, and treatment options.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of the 18466 ZIP code have access to several hospitals offering cardiology services and other specialized care for hypertension. Geisinger Community Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital are the primary options. Patients should carefully research each hospital, considering factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities. By actively engaging with the healthcare system and adopting a proactive approach to their health, individuals with hypertension can effectively manage their condition and improve their quality of life. This review provides a framework for making informed decisions about healthcare, but individual circumstances may vary. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment recommendations.