18223, Ebervale, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18223, Ebervale, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 18223

This review assesses the healthcare landscape surrounding ZIP code 18223, focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services. The analysis considers factors crucial to patient well-being, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized care availability, and telehealth integration. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for the region, empowering residents to make informed healthcare decisions.

**Geographic Context and Population:**

ZIP code 18223 encompasses the town of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas in Luzerne County. This region is home to a diverse population, and its healthcare needs are shaped by factors like demographics, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases. The availability and quality of healthcare services are therefore critical for the overall health and well-being of the community.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on a variety of quality measures. These ratings offer a valuable, albeit imperfect, snapshot of hospital performance. For residents near 18223, the closest major hospitals are in the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton metropolitan area. These facilities are key to understanding the regional healthcare picture.

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, located in Plains Township, PA, is a prominent regional hospital. It’s a large facility with a wide range of services. As of the most recent CMS data, its star rating should be checked on the CMS website to get the most up-to-date information. This rating reflects performance across areas like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

Another major player is Moses Taylor Hospital in Scranton, PA. This hospital also has a CMS star rating, which should be verified on the CMS website. Moses Taylor offers a variety of services and is a significant provider in the region. Comparing the ratings of these two hospitals, along with other nearby facilities, provides a baseline for assessing overall quality.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

Emergency room (ER) wait times are a critical indicator of access and efficiency. Long wait times can be detrimental, particularly for patients with serious conditions. Data on ER wait times can be found on hospital websites, through online platforms like Healthgrades, and sometimes through state health department resources.

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital, being the major regional facilities, will be the primary points of reference for ER wait times. The average wait time should be checked regularly, as it fluctuates depending on patient volume and staffing levels. Comparing wait times between the two hospitals can help patients choose the most accessible option in an emergency.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

The availability of specialized services is crucial for addressing complex medical needs. The region's hospitals offer a range of specialty centers.

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center is known for its comprehensive services, including cardiology, oncology, and women's health. The hospital's heart and vascular institute, cancer institute, and maternal-fetal medicine programs are particularly important for the community.

Moses Taylor Hospital also provides a variety of specialized services. Details about its cardiology, orthopedics, and surgical programs should be checked on their website. The availability of specialized care for conditions like stroke, trauma, and behavioral health is crucial for a comprehensive healthcare system.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. It provides patients with access to care remotely, improving convenience and access to specialists.

Both Geisinger and Moses Taylor have expanded their telehealth offerings. Geisinger is a leader in telehealth, with a robust platform for virtual visits, remote monitoring, and specialist consultations. Moses Taylor is also likely to have telehealth options, allowing patients to connect with providers from the comfort of their homes. The specific telehealth services available, including the types of appointments offered and the technology used, should be checked on each hospital’s website.

**Other Important Considerations:**

Beyond the core metrics, several other factors influence the "Overall Health Score" of the region.

* **Hospital Accreditation:** Accreditation from organizations like The Joint Commission or DNV GL Healthcare is a sign of quality and commitment to patient safety. Both Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital are likely to be accredited.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient experience is a key indicator of quality. Patient satisfaction surveys, such as those conducted by CMS, provide valuable insights into how patients perceive their care. These surveys assess factors like communication with doctors, responsiveness of staff, and cleanliness of the facilities.
* **Community Health Needs Assessments:** Hospitals are required to conduct community health needs assessments to identify the most pressing health needs of the populations they serve. These assessments can reveal areas where the healthcare system is lacking and where resources are needed.
* **Physician Availability:** The availability of qualified physicians, including primary care doctors and specialists, is essential. The ratio of physicians to patients is a key indicator of access to care. Check the hospital websites for their physician directories and consider the ease of getting appointments.
* **Cost of Care:** The cost of healthcare is a significant concern for many patients. Comparing the costs of services at different hospitals, while challenging, is important. Patients should inquire about pricing and insurance coverage before receiving care.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the available information, the "Overall Health Score" for residents near ZIP code 18223 is a mixed bag. The region benefits from the presence of major hospitals like Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital, which offer a wide range of services. However, the quality of care and access to services can vary.

* **Strengths:** The presence of major hospitals with specialized services, including cardiology, oncology, and women's health, is a significant strength. The growing integration of telehealth offers improved access to care.
* **Weaknesses:** The "Overall Health Score" is limited by the lack of specific data in this review. ER wait times, CMS star ratings, and patient satisfaction scores should be checked on the CMS website and hospital websites.
* **Recommendations:** Residents should actively research the specific hospitals and services they need. They should compare CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and patient satisfaction scores. They should also explore the telehealth options available. Engaging with the healthcare system proactively is essential for making informed decisions and receiving the best possible care.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 18223 offers a mix of strengths and weaknesses. The presence of major hospitals with diverse services is a positive aspect. However, patients must be proactive in researching their options, comparing quality metrics, and understanding the available resources. By staying informed and engaged, residents can navigate the healthcare system effectively and access the care they need to maintain their health and well-being. The "Overall Health Score" for this region is ultimately determined by the individual patient's ability to access and utilize the available resources effectively.