18428, Hawley, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18428, Hawley, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Honesdale, PA (ZIP Code 18428)

The picturesque Pocono Mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania, encompassing the ZIP code 18428 (Honesdale), offer a tranquil escape, but access to quality healthcare is paramount. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the hospitals serving this area, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, telehealth availability, and overall patient experience. The goal is to provide residents with the information needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**The Landscape of Healthcare in the Region**

The primary healthcare providers serving the Honesdale area are a mix of community hospitals and larger regional facilities. Proximity to major urban centers like Scranton and Binghamton, NY, broadens the scope of available care, but travel time and accessibility remain crucial considerations. This review focuses on the most relevant hospitals for residents of 18428, offering a comparative analysis to help navigate the local healthcare landscape.

**Wayne Memorial Hospital: The Local Anchor**

Wayne Memorial Hospital, located directly in Honesdale, is the most immediate healthcare resource for residents of 18428. As a community hospital, it serves as a crucial access point for emergency care, primary care, and a range of inpatient and outpatient services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Wayne Memorial Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's essential to consider the specific areas where the hospital excels and where it may need improvement.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times are a critical factor for immediate care. While specific, publicly available data on ER wait times for Wayne Memorial Hospital can fluctuate, local sources suggest that wait times are generally within the national average for similar-sized facilities. It's always advisable to call ahead or check online for the most up-to-date information, especially during peak hours.
* **Specialty Centers and Services:** Wayne Memorial offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. The hospital also has a surgical suite and offers rehabilitation services. The availability of these services locally reduces the need for travel for many common medical needs.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Wayne Memorial has been actively expanding its telehealth capabilities. Telehealth offers patients remote access to medical consultations, follow-up appointments, and specialized care. The hospital's telehealth platform provides a convenient option for those seeking care, especially for non-emergency situations.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient experience is measured through surveys and feedback. Wayne Memorial Hospital strives to improve its patient satisfaction scores. The hospital's commitment to patient-centered care is reflected in its efforts to enhance communication, comfort, and overall experience.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

Located in Wilkes-Barre, PA, Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (GWV) is a larger regional hospital that provides a broader spectrum of services and specialized care. While requiring a longer drive from Honesdale, it offers access to advanced medical treatments and expertise.

* **CMS Star Rating:** GWV has a 4-star rating from CMS. This indicates a higher level of performance compared to Wayne Memorial, reflecting strong performance in quality measures and patient outcomes.
* **ER Wait Times:** Due to its size and high patient volume, ER wait times at GWV can be longer than at Wayne Memorial. However, the hospital's larger staff and resources often allow for more efficient processing of patients with urgent needs. Real-time wait time information is often available on the hospital's website or through online platforms.
* **Specialty Centers and Services:** GWV boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers, including a heart institute, a cancer center, and advanced surgical capabilities. It is a regional referral center for complex medical cases, attracting patients from a wide area.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Geisinger Health System has a robust telehealth program. GWV offers extensive telehealth services, including virtual visits with specialists, remote monitoring, and access to educational resources. This allows patients in the Honesdale area to connect with specialists without the need for lengthy travel.
* **Patient Experience:** Geisinger Health System places a strong emphasis on patient experience. GWV's patient satisfaction scores are generally high, reflecting its commitment to providing quality care and a positive patient experience.

**Other Hospitals to Consider**

While Wayne Memorial and Geisinger Wyoming Valley are the primary options, other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance may be relevant, depending on specific needs.

* **Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital (Sayre, PA):** Located approximately an hour and a half from Honesdale, Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital is a large regional medical center with a strong reputation for its specialized services. It is a Level I Trauma Center and offers a wide range of advanced medical treatments. Its CMS star rating and ER wait times are comparable to Geisinger Wyoming Valley.
* **Regional Hospital of Scranton:** This hospital offers a range of services and is closer to Honesdale than Geisinger Wyoming Valley. Its CMS star rating and ER wait times are typically similar to Wayne Memorial.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Choosing the right hospital involves a careful consideration of several factors:

* **Severity of the Condition:** For life-threatening emergencies, the closest hospital with an emergency room is the priority. For less urgent needs, the availability of specific specialists and services becomes more important.
* **Specialty Needs:** Patients with chronic conditions or specific medical needs should consider hospitals with specialized centers and expertise in those areas.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the chosen hospital is within your insurance network to minimize out-of-pocket expenses.
* **Patient Preferences:** Personal preferences, such as proximity to family, comfort, and communication style, also play a role in the decision.
* **Transportation:** Consider the ease of access and transportation options, especially for those without personal vehicles.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

Based on the available information, the following "Overall Health Score" assessment can be made for hospitals serving the 18428 ZIP code:

* **Wayne Memorial Hospital:** A solid community hospital offering essential services and a convenient location. The 3-star CMS rating indicates average performance, but the hospital's commitment to local care and expanding telehealth services is commendable.
* **Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center:** A strong regional hospital with a 4-star CMS rating, offering a broader range of specialty services and telehealth options. While travel time is a factor, GWV is a valuable resource for more complex medical needs.
* **Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital:** A highly-rated regional hospital with advanced medical treatments and a strong reputation.
* **Regional Hospital of Scranton:** A hospital with a range of services and a closer proximity to Honesdale.

**Conclusion**

Residents of Honesdale (18428) have access to a range of healthcare options, from the local convenience of Wayne Memorial Hospital to the specialized care available at regional centers like Geisinger Wyoming Valley and Guthrie Robert Packer. The choice of the "best" hospital depends on individual needs, preferences, and the specific medical condition. By considering the factors outlined in this review, residents can make informed decisions and ensure access to quality healthcare in the Pocono Mountains region. It is always recommended to consult with a primary care physician for personalized recommendations and to verify the most up-to-date information on wait times, services, and insurance coverage before making any healthcare decisions.