18254, Tresckow, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18254, Tresckow, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Weatherly, PA (ZIP Code 18254)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals in proximity to Weatherly, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18254), offering a data-driven perspective to aid informed decision-making. The analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, telehealth availability, and other key indicators. Due to the rural nature of the area, the review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, acknowledging that access to specialized care may require travel.

**Defining the Scope:**

The primary focus centers on hospitals within a 30-mile radius of Weatherly, PA. This encompasses facilities in Carbon, Schuylkill, and Luzerne counties. While smaller clinics and urgent care centers play a vital role, this review concentrates on acute care hospitals capable of handling a wide range of medical needs.

**Key Metrics and Their Significance:**

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single, definitive number. Instead, it's a synthesis of several crucial metrics. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings are a prominent factor, providing a publicly available assessment of hospital quality based on various measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Emergency room (ER) wait times are another critical consideration, reflecting a hospital's ability to handle urgent medical needs promptly. Specialty centers, such as those for cardiology, oncology, or orthopedics, indicate a hospital's capacity to provide specialized care. Telehealth availability, a growing trend, is assessed for its convenience and accessibility.

**Hospital Profiles and Assessments:**

**Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hazleton (Hazleton, PA):** Located approximately 15 miles from Weatherly, Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH) – Hazleton is a significant healthcare provider in the region. It boasts a 3-star CMS rating (as of October 2024), indicating average performance compared to other hospitals nationally. LVH-Hazleton's ER wait times are generally reported to be around 30-45 minutes, though this can fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume. The hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and oncology. Telehealth services are available, including virtual visits for certain specialties. LVH-Hazleton is a vital resource for the community, offering a broad spectrum of services.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes-Barre, PA):** Situated roughly 25 miles from Weatherly, Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (GWVMC) is a larger facility offering a more extensive range of services. Its CMS star rating is 4 stars (as of October 2024), suggesting a higher level of quality compared to LVH-Hazleton. ER wait times at GWVMC are typically reported to be longer, often exceeding an hour, reflecting a higher patient volume. The hospital is a regional referral center, housing a comprehensive array of specialty centers, including advanced cardiac care, a Level II trauma center, and specialized cancer treatment programs. Geisinger is known for its robust telehealth program, including virtual appointments with specialists and remote patient monitoring. The hospital's size and breadth of services make it a strong contender for complex medical needs.

**St. Luke's Hospital – Miners Campus (Coaldale, PA):** Approximately 10 miles from Weatherly, St. Luke's Hospital – Miners Campus is a smaller community hospital. It currently holds a 3-star CMS rating (as of October 2024). ER wait times are typically shorter than those at larger hospitals, often under an hour. St. Luke's Miners offers essential services, including emergency care, general surgery, and a range of outpatient services. Telehealth options are available, though they may be more limited compared to larger facilities. This hospital provides a convenient option for residents seeking basic medical care.

**Blue Mountain Health System – Gnaden Huetten Campus (Lehighton, PA):** Located about 15 miles from Weatherly, Blue Mountain Health System – Gnaden Huetten Campus is another community hospital. It has a 3-star CMS rating (as of October 2024). ER wait times are generally reported to be relatively short. The hospital provides a range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and a variety of outpatient clinics. Telehealth options are available, offering convenient access to medical professionals.

**Hospital Comparisons and Considerations:**

Choosing the "best" hospital depends on individual needs and circumstances. For routine medical care and less complex conditions, the closer community hospitals, such as St. Luke's Miners and Blue Mountain – Gnaden Huetten, may be suitable, offering shorter wait times and convenient access. However, for serious illnesses or injuries requiring specialized care, Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, with its higher CMS rating and extensive specialty centers, could be a more appropriate choice, despite the longer travel distance and potentially longer ER wait times. Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hazleton offers a middle ground, providing a good range of services and a convenient location.

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

ER wait times are a significant indicator of a hospital's efficiency and ability to manage patient flow. While shorter wait times are generally preferable, it's important to consider the severity of the condition. Hospitals with longer wait times may be handling a higher volume of critically ill patients. Patients should always seek immediate medical attention for serious conditions, regardless of wait times.

**Specialty Centers: Access to Advanced Care:**

The availability of specialized services is crucial for patients with specific medical needs. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center stands out in this regard, offering a wide range of specialized centers, including cardiology, oncology, and advanced surgical procedures. Patients with complex conditions may benefit from the expertise and resources available at this facility.

**Telehealth: Convenience and Accessibility:**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly common, offering patients the convenience of virtual appointments and remote monitoring. Geisinger is a leader in telehealth, providing a wide range of virtual options. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists.

**Financial Considerations:**

Healthcare costs vary depending on the hospital, the services provided, and the patient's insurance coverage. Patients should always verify their insurance coverage and understand their out-of-pocket expenses before receiving medical care. Hospital websites and patient portals often provide information on billing and financial assistance programs.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

Based on the available data, the following is a general assessment of the hospitals near Weatherly, PA:

* **Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center:** Offers the most comprehensive services, a higher CMS rating, and a robust telehealth program. However, it may have longer ER wait times.
* **Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hazleton:** Provides a good range of services with moderate ER wait times and a convenient location.
* **St. Luke's Hospital – Miners Campus & Blue Mountain – Gnaden Huetten Campus:** Offer convenient access and shorter ER wait times for basic medical needs. However, their specialty services are more limited.

**Important Note:** CMS star ratings and ER wait times are dynamic and can change. Patients should always consult the most up-to-date information available on hospital websites and other reliable sources. This review is intended as a guide and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for any medical concerns.