18212, Ashfield, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18212, Ashfield, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 18212

Finding the right hospital is a critical decision, and for residents near ZIP code 18212 (which encompasses parts of Carbon County, Pennsylvania, including the town of Jim Thorpe and surrounding areas), several options exist. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and other key performance indicators. Due to the rural nature of the area, the review will focus on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, providing a comprehensive picture for informed healthcare choices.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare landscape near 18212 is primarily shaped by a mix of community hospitals and regional medical centers. Proximity to larger cities like Allentown and Scranton expands the choices, but also increases travel time. This review prioritizes hospitals that are readily accessible while still providing a robust range of services.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hazleton:**

Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hazleton (LVH-Hazleton) is a key player, serving as a primary healthcare provider for the region. As part of the larger Lehigh Valley Health Network, it benefits from a broader network of specialists and resources. LVH-Hazleton has a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality metrics, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and readmission rates. While a 3-star rating is considered average, it indicates areas where improvements are needed.

ER wait times at LVH-Hazleton are generally in line with national averages, but can fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume. The hospital's website provides real-time wait time information, a valuable resource for patients. LVH-Hazleton offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and oncology. It has a dedicated cancer center, providing comprehensive cancer care, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Telehealth services are increasingly available, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. The hospital’s telehealth offerings are expanding, providing greater access to care, especially for those in more remote locations.

**St. Luke's Hospital – Miners Campus (Coaldale):**

St. Luke's Hospital – Miners Campus, located in nearby Coaldale, is another important option. It is part of the St. Luke's University Health Network. St. Luke's University Health Network is a well-regarded system in the region. St. Luke’s Miners Campus does not have a CMS star rating because it is a smaller facility, but it is a vital part of the community healthcare ecosystem.

ER wait times at St. Luke's Miners Campus are typically shorter than those at larger hospitals, offering a potentially quicker path to care. It provides essential services, including emergency care, general surgery, and diagnostic imaging. The hospital has a strong focus on community health, offering various wellness programs and educational initiatives. Telehealth services are available, although the scope may be more limited compared to larger hospitals within the network.

**Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital (Orwigsburg):**

Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg, while further afield, provides another option. It is a joint venture between Geisinger Health System and St. Luke's University Health Network. This partnership leverages the strengths of both organizations, offering a wider range of services and expertise.

Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital does not have a CMS star rating, but is a well-respected facility. ER wait times are generally reasonable, and the hospital provides comprehensive emergency care. The hospital offers a variety of specialty services, including cardiology, gastroenterology, and orthopedics. Telehealth services are readily available through the Geisinger system, providing access to a broad network of specialists and virtual consultations. The Geisinger system is known for its advanced telehealth capabilities.

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond the core hospitals, several other factors influence the overall health score. Access to specialists is crucial, especially for complex medical conditions. The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology, is a significant factor. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center is a major advantage.

**ER Wait Times:**

ER wait times are a key concern for patients. While all hospitals strive to provide timely care, wait times can vary. Real-time wait time information, often available on hospital websites, is a valuable resource for patients. Shorter wait times generally indicate a more efficient emergency department.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telehealth services allow patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The availability of telehealth appointments, virtual consultations, and remote monitoring programs enhances the overall health score.

**Patient Satisfaction:**

Patient satisfaction is a critical indicator of quality. Hospitals are increasingly focused on patient experience, and factors like communication, empathy, and overall comfort contribute to a positive experience. Patient satisfaction scores, often measured through surveys, provide insights into the quality of care.

**Specialty Centers:**

The presence of specialized centers, such as cardiac centers, stroke centers, and cancer centers, significantly impacts the overall health score. These centers offer specialized expertise and resources, providing comprehensive care for specific medical conditions.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

Based on the factors discussed, the hospitals near ZIP code 18212 offer a range of healthcare options. LVH-Hazleton, as a larger facility, provides a broader range of services and access to specialists, but has an average CMS star rating. St. Luke's Hospital – Miners Campus offers convenient access and a strong community focus. Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital, while further away, benefits from the combined resources of the Geisinger and St. Luke's systems.

**Recommendations:**

For residents of 18212, the "best" hospital depends on individual needs and circumstances.

* **For comprehensive care and access to a wide range of specialists, LVH-Hazleton or Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital are good choices, but factor in travel time.**
* **For quicker access to emergency care and a more community-focused environment, St. Luke's Miners Campus is a strong option.**
* **Consider the specific needs. Patients with complex medical conditions should prioritize hospitals with specialized centers and access to specialists.**
* **Utilize online resources, including hospital websites and patient reviews, to gather information and make informed decisions.**
* **Check real-time ER wait times before seeking emergency care.**
* **Explore telehealth options for convenient access to specialists and consultations.**

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital is a personal decision. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, residents near ZIP code 18212 can make informed choices that best meet their healthcare needs. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, so it is important to stay informed about the latest developments and resources available.