18213, Billerica, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18213, Billerica, Massachusetts is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 18213 (Hazleton, PA)

Navigating healthcare can feel overwhelming. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the area near Hazleton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18213), focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions about your care. We'll examine factors like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability, providing a clear picture of the healthcare landscape.

**The Local Landscape:**

The primary hospitals serving the Hazleton area are Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre and Lehigh Valley Hospital–Hazleton. These facilities, along with surrounding urgent care centers and smaller clinics, form the core of the healthcare ecosystem for residents of 18213. Access to specialized care often requires travel, making proximity and quality of services crucial considerations.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes-Barre): A Flagship Evaluation**

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (GWVMC) is a major regional hospital, serving as a flagship facility within the Geisinger Health System. This hospital is a significant provider of care for residents of the 18213 ZIP code.

**CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system, offering a publicly available measure of hospital quality. GWVMC's CMS star rating is an important indicator of overall performance. As of the latest available data, GWVMC has a [Insert Current CMS Star Rating Here, obtained from CMS website. This is crucial and must be updated]. This rating considers factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. A higher star rating generally indicates better performance across these key areas.

**Emergency Room Performance:** Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for patients seeking immediate care. GWVMC's ER wait times fluctuate, but understanding the average is essential. [Insert Average ER Wait Time for GWVMC, obtained from publicly available sources like Hospital Compare or Healthgrades. Be specific, e.g., "The average ER wait time is approximately X minutes."] These wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition.

**Specialized Services:** GWVMC offers a comprehensive range of specialized services. These include cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and a comprehensive stroke center. [Provide specific details on the availability of key specialized services, e.g., "GWVMC boasts a robust cardiology program, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery capabilities. The hospital also houses a dedicated cancer center offering radiation therapy and chemotherapy."] Access to these specialized services within a reasonable distance is a significant advantage for patients needing complex care.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. GWVMC offers telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with providers remotely. [Specify the types of telehealth services offered, e.g., "GWVMC provides telehealth consultations for various specialties, including cardiology, endocrinology, and behavioral health. They also offer remote patient monitoring programs for chronic conditions."] This can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital–Hazleton: Local Focus**

Lehigh Valley Hospital–Hazleton (LVH–Hazleton) provides a more localized healthcare option for residents of the 18213 area. Its strengths lie in its proximity and its focus on serving the immediate community.

**CMS Star Ratings:** LVH–Hazleton's CMS star rating is another crucial indicator of quality. [Insert Current CMS Star Rating for LVH–Hazleton, obtained from CMS website. This is crucial and must be updated]. This rating helps compare the hospital's performance against national benchmarks.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times at LVH–Hazleton are a key consideration for local residents. [Insert Average ER Wait Time for LVH–Hazleton, obtained from publicly available sources. Be specific]. Shorter wait times can significantly impact patient satisfaction and outcomes.

**Specialized Services:** LVH–Hazleton offers a range of specialized services tailored to the needs of the community. [Provide specific examples of specialized services offered, e.g., "LVH–Hazleton offers a comprehensive surgical program, including general surgery, orthopedic surgery, and urology. They also have a dedicated maternity unit."]

**Telehealth Capabilities:** LVH–Hazleton has expanded its telehealth offerings. [Specify the types of telehealth services offered, e.g., "LVH–Hazleton provides telehealth options for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists. They are also expanding their telehealth services to include remote monitoring for chronic conditions."]

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, other factors influence the overall health score for the 18213 area. These include:

* **Urgent Care Centers:** Several urgent care centers operate near Hazleton, providing immediate care for non-life-threatening conditions. These centers offer an alternative to the ER for certain needs, potentially reducing wait times and costs.
* **Primary Care Physicians:** The availability of primary care physicians is crucial for preventative care and managing chronic conditions. Access to a primary care physician within a reasonable distance is a key factor in overall health.
* **Specialty Clinics:** The presence of specialty clinics, such as cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology, further enhances the healthcare options available to residents.
* **Mental Health Services:** Access to mental health services is a critical component of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and mental health clinics is essential.
* **Transportation:** Transportation options can significantly impact access to healthcare, especially for those without personal vehicles. Public transportation and ride-sharing services play a role in ensuring access to care.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The overall health score for the 18213 area is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, with its comprehensive services and [Insert CMS Star Rating], provides a strong regional healthcare option. Lehigh Valley Hospital–Hazleton offers a more localized approach. The availability of urgent care centers, primary care physicians, and specialty clinics further enhances the healthcare landscape.

**Recommendations:**

* **Research Your Needs:** Before needing care, research the hospitals and services available. Consider your specific healthcare needs and choose the facility that best meets them.
* **Check Wait Times:** If you require immediate care, check the ER wait times at nearby hospitals.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Explore telehealth options for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Establish a Primary Care Physician:** Having a primary care physician is essential for preventative care and managing chronic conditions.
* **Consider Insurance Coverage:** Ensure you understand your insurance coverage and the network of providers available to you.
* **Stay Informed:** Healthcare is constantly evolving. Stay informed about changes in services and technologies.

**Disclaimer:** This review is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. Healthcare needs are individual, and this review should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care. Information is subject to change. Verify all information with the respective hospitals and healthcare providers.