18444, Moscow, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18444, Moscow, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Honesdale, PA (ZIP Code 18444)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Honesdale, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18444), understanding the quality and accessibility of nearby hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to offer a clear picture of the healthcare options available in the region.

**The Landscape: Primary Players and Proximity**

The primary hospitals serving the Honesdale area are primarily located within a reasonable driving distance. While Honesdale itself is a smaller community, access to quality healthcare is facilitated by hospitals in neighboring towns and cities. This review focuses on those facilities that are most accessible and relevant to residents of the 18444 ZIP code.

**Wayne Memorial Hospital: The Local Anchor**

Wayne Memorial Hospital, located directly in Honesdale, is the cornerstone of local healthcare. As a community hospital, it provides a range of essential services. The hospital's CMS star rating is a key indicator of overall quality. While specific star ratings fluctuate, it is essential to check the latest CMS data for the most up-to-date information. These ratings reflect a hospital's performance across various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

Wayne Memorial's Emergency Department (ED) is a critical resource for the community. ER wait times are a significant consideration for patients needing immediate care. While specific wait times fluctuate based on patient volume and severity of cases, it's advisable to check the hospital's website or other publicly available resources for the most current estimates. Shorter wait times generally indicate a more efficient ED.

Wayne Memorial offers specialized services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. The availability of these specialties within the local hospital reduces the need for travel to larger medical centers for common health concerns. The hospital is also investing in telehealth services. Telehealth allows patients to access medical consultations and follow-up care remotely, increasing convenience and access to care, especially for those in rural areas.

**Regional Considerations: Expanding the Scope**

Beyond Wayne Memorial, residents of 18444 have access to hospitals in neighboring areas. The availability of these facilities expands the range of services and specialties available.

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

Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC), located in Scranton, PA, is a larger regional hospital offering a broader array of specialized services. While a longer drive than Wayne Memorial, GCMC provides access to advanced medical treatments and specialists. GCMC's CMS star rating is an important factor in assessing its overall quality. Checking the most recent CMS data will offer the most current information.

GCMC's ED is equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies. Similar to Wayne Memorial, monitoring ED wait times is essential. The hospital’s website or other resources should provide this information.

GCMC boasts specialized centers, including cardiology, oncology, and neurology. These centers provide comprehensive care for complex medical conditions. The hospital is also a leader in telehealth, offering a robust platform for virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring.

**Moses Taylor Hospital (Scranton, PA): Another Scranton Option**

Moses Taylor Hospital, also located in Scranton, provides another option for residents of the 18444 ZIP code. The hospital's CMS star rating is a key indicator of its performance. Checking the most recent CMS data is essential for assessing the hospital's quality.

Moses Taylor's ED is a critical resource for the Scranton area. Monitoring ED wait times is crucial for patients needing immediate care. The hospital's website or other resources should provide this information.

Moses Taylor offers specialized services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. The availability of these specialties within the hospital reduces the need for travel to larger medical centers for common health concerns. Moses Taylor also provides telehealth services, offering patients virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring.

**Other Considerations: Beyond the Hospitals**

While hospitals are the central focus, other factors influence overall healthcare access.

**Physician Availability:** The availability of primary care physicians and specialists is crucial. Residents should research the physician networks associated with each hospital to assess their access to care.

**Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage plays a vital role in accessing healthcare services. Patients should ensure that the hospitals they choose are in their insurance network.

**Transportation:** Transportation to and from medical appointments is another consideration, especially for those without personal vehicles or who live in more rural areas.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

Calculating a single, definitive "Overall Health Score" is complex. The best hospital for an individual depends on their specific needs and circumstances. However, a general assessment can be made based on the factors discussed.

**Wayne Memorial Hospital:** As the local hospital, Wayne Memorial offers convenient access to essential services. Its CMS star rating, ED wait times, and specialized services should be carefully considered. The hospital's investment in telehealth enhances its accessibility.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center:** GCMC provides a broader range of specialized services and advanced medical treatments. Its CMS star rating, ED wait times, and extensive telehealth platform are significant advantages. The longer travel distance is a factor to consider.

**Moses Taylor Hospital:** Moses Taylor offers another option for residents of the 18444 ZIP code. The hospital's CMS star rating, ED wait times, and specialized services should be carefully considered. Moses Taylor also provides telehealth services, offering patients virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize research:** Before needing care, research the CMS star ratings, ED wait times, and available specialties at each hospital.
* **Consider your needs:** Choose the hospital that best aligns with your specific healthcare needs and preferences.
* **Utilize telehealth:** Embrace telehealth options to increase convenience and access to care.
* **Stay informed:** Regularly check hospital websites and other resources for the most up-to-date information on wait times, services, and quality metrics.
* **Consult your primary care physician:** Discuss your healthcare needs and preferences with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of the 18444 ZIP code have access to a range of healthcare options, from the local anchor, Wayne Memorial Hospital, to the regional powerhouse of Geisinger Community Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review – CMS star ratings, ED wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities – residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they receive the best possible care. The "Overall Health Score" is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that requires ongoing evaluation and adaptation to individual needs.