18440, La Plume, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18440, La Plume, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Honesdale, PA (ZIP Code 18440)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals within a reasonable radius of Honesdale, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18440), considering factors like quality of care, accessibility, and specialized services. This analysis aims to provide a clearer picture for residents seeking the best options for their healthcare needs.

**The Landscape: Limited but Focused**

The immediate area surrounding Honesdale is characterized by a more rural healthcare infrastructure. The primary hospital serving the community is Wayne Memorial Hospital, located directly in Honesdale. Beyond this, residents typically look to larger regional centers for more specialized care. The analysis will consider Wayne Memorial Hospital, along with hospitals in Scranton and surrounding areas, offering a broader perspective on available resources.

**Wayne Memorial Hospital: The Local Anchor**

Wayne Memorial Hospital, situated at 600 Park Street, Honesdale, PA 18447, is the cornerstone of healthcare for the local community. It’s a critical access hospital, meaning it receives special financial considerations due to its rural location and the essential services it provides. Unfortunately, Wayne Memorial Hospital does not have a CMS star rating. This absence doesn't necessarily equate to poor quality, but it does mean that publicly available data comparing its performance to other hospitals is limited.

Wayne Memorial Hospital offers a range of services, including a 24/7 emergency department, surgical services, and a comprehensive range of inpatient and outpatient care. They also have a focus on community outreach programs, reflecting their role as a vital resource for the local population.

**Emergency Department Wait Times: A Key Metric**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of accessibility and efficiency. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, it's possible to find data from sites like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and third-party websites that track ER wait times. It is important to note that these times can vary significantly based on the day of the week, time of day, and the volume of patients. Wayne Memorial Hospital's wait times are generally reported as being in line with or slightly better than the national average for similar-sized hospitals.

**Specialty Services at Wayne Memorial**

Wayne Memorial Hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and obstetrics. They have a dedicated cancer center, the Thomas and Ulla Fadden Cancer Center, providing comprehensive cancer care, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The hospital also offers physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.

**Telehealth Integration at Wayne Memorial**

Telehealth services are increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Wayne Memorial Hospital has been actively expanding its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations with specialists and remote monitoring services. This is particularly beneficial for patients who may have difficulty traveling to specialists in larger cities. The hospital's telehealth program is designed to improve access to care and reduce the need for lengthy travel.

**Expanding the Scope: Hospitals in Scranton and Beyond**

For more specialized care, residents of the Honesdale area often turn to hospitals in Scranton, Pennsylvania, approximately an hour's drive away. Scranton offers a wider range of medical services and specialists.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center (Scranton): A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Community Medical Center, located at 1000 East Mountain Drive, Scranton, PA 18507, is a significant player in the region. It is part of the larger Geisinger Health System, known for its integrated healthcare model. Geisinger Community Medical Center has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This indicates a mixed performance, with some areas exceeding national averages and others needing improvement. The hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including a Level II Trauma Center, a stroke center, and advanced cardiac care.

**Emergency Department at Geisinger Community Medical Center**

Geisinger Community Medical Center's emergency department is a busy one, serving a large population. Wait times are typically longer than those at Wayne Memorial Hospital, reflecting the higher volume of patients. It's important to check real-time wait times on the hospital's website or through third-party apps before heading to the ER.

**Specialty Centers at Geisinger Community Medical Center**

Geisinger Community Medical Center boasts a variety of specialty centers. These include a comprehensive cancer center, a heart and vascular institute, and specialized programs for women's health and behavioral health. The hospital also has a dedicated pediatric emergency department.

**Telehealth at Geisinger Community Medical Center**

Geisinger Health System is a leader in telehealth. Geisinger Community Medical Center offers a wide array of telehealth services, including virtual visits with primary care physicians and specialists. They also have remote monitoring programs for chronic conditions, such as diabetes and heart failure.

**Moses Taylor Hospital (Scranton): A Community Focus**

Moses Taylor Hospital, located at 700 Quincy Avenue, Scranton, PA 18510, is another major hospital in Scranton. Moses Taylor Hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. It provides a broad range of services, including a 24/7 emergency department, surgical services, and specialized care in areas such as cardiology and orthopedics.

**Emergency Department at Moses Taylor Hospital**

Moses Taylor Hospital's emergency department is also a high-volume center. Wait times can vary, so checking real-time data is advisable.

**Specialty Centers at Moses Taylor Hospital**

Moses Taylor Hospital offers a range of specialty services, including a comprehensive cardiac program, a wound care center, and a bariatric surgery program. They also have a dedicated women's health center.

**Telehealth at Moses Taylor Hospital**

Moses Taylor Hospital has been expanding its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual visits and remote monitoring services.

**Other Considerations: Beyond the Big Hospitals**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, it's essential to consider other healthcare providers in the region. This includes urgent care centers, outpatient clinics, and specialized practices. These facilities can provide convenient access to care for less serious conditions and offer specialized services.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near Honesdale, PA (ZIP Code 18440) is nuanced. Wayne Memorial Hospital serves as a vital local resource, providing essential services and a focus on community health. However, for more specialized care, residents often need to travel to Scranton. Geisinger Community Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital offer a wider range of services, including specialized centers and advanced technology.

**Factors to Consider:**

* **Proximity:** Wayne Memorial Hospital offers the most convenient access for residents of Honesdale.
* **Specialty Needs:** Geisinger Community Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital in Scranton provide a broader array of specialized services.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** While not the only indicator of quality, CMS star ratings can provide a snapshot of a hospital's performance.
* **Emergency Department Wait Times:** These can vary significantly. Checking real-time data is essential.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services are increasingly important for accessing care, especially in rural areas.
* **Personal Preferences:** Individual needs and preferences will influence the choice of hospital.

**Recommendations:**

Residents of Honesdale should consider Wayne Memorial Hospital for their primary care needs and for emergency situations. For more specialized care, Geisinger Community Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital in Scranton are strong options. It's always advisable to consult with your primary care physician to determine the best course of action based on your individual healthcare needs. Regularly checking hospital websites and third-party sources for updated information on wait times and services is also recommended. The best choice depends on the individual's needs and the specific services required.