18447, Olyphant, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18447, Olyphant, Pennsylvania is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Honesdale, PA (ZIP Code 18447)

Navigating healthcare can feel like traversing a complex maze. For residents of Honesdale, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18447), access to quality medical care is paramount. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the hospitals in and around the region, considering factors from CMS star ratings and ER wait times to specialty centers and telehealth offerings. This aims to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape, empowering informed decisions for individual and family health needs.

**The Cornerstone: Wayne Memorial Hospital**

Wayne Memorial Hospital, located directly in Honesdale, serves as the primary healthcare provider for the community. It's a critical access hospital, a designation that reflects its vital role in a rural area. While specific CMS star ratings can fluctuate, understanding its performance is essential. Wayne Memorial's quality metrics, including patient safety and outcomes, are regularly assessed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Residents should consult the most recent CMS data on the Hospital Compare website (Medicare.gov) for the latest information on quality measures, patient experience, and potential areas for improvement.

Wayne Memorial offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and various inpatient and outpatient departments. Its emergency room (ER) wait times are a crucial factor for immediate care. While precise, real-time ER wait times can vary, it's advisable to check the hospital's website or call directly for the most up-to-date information. Shorter wait times generally indicate a more efficient ER, which can be critical in urgent situations. The hospital's website and local news outlets often provide this data.

Wayne Memorial's specialty offerings are also important. The hospital provides services in areas like cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. Patients should research the specific expertise and resources available within each department. This includes reviewing physician qualifications, the availability of advanced technologies, and patient satisfaction scores.

**Expanding the Horizon: Hospitals within a Reasonable Distance**

While Wayne Memorial is the local hub, residents may also consider hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. This expands the options for specialized care and potentially shorter wait times for certain procedures.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center (Scranton, PA)**

Approximately an hour's drive from Honesdale, Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC) in Scranton presents a larger, more comprehensive healthcare facility. GCMC is part of the Geisinger Health System, known for its integrated healthcare model. GCMC's CMS star rating, readily available on the Hospital Compare website, is a key indicator of its overall quality. This rating considers factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

GCMC boasts a broader range of specialty services than a smaller community hospital. This includes advanced cardiology programs, comprehensive cancer care, and specialized surgical units. For patients requiring specialized treatments or procedures, GCMC may be a preferred option. The hospital's ER typically handles a higher volume of patients, so wait times can vary. Checking the hospital's website or calling ahead for estimated wait times is recommended.

Geisinger also has a robust telehealth program. Telehealth allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, providing convenient access to care, especially for follow-up appointments or consultations. Geisinger's telehealth offerings can significantly reduce the need for travel, particularly for residents in rural areas like Honesdale.

**Moses Taylor Hospital (Scranton, PA)**

Another Scranton-based option is Moses Taylor Hospital. Moses Taylor is another hospital that residents may consider. This hospital's CMS star rating, accessible on the Hospital Compare website, provides an objective assessment of its quality. Moses Taylor provides a range of medical services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and various specialty departments.

Moses Taylor's ER wait times are a crucial factor for those needing immediate care. Checking the hospital's website or calling ahead for estimated wait times is recommended. Moses Taylor's website will also provide details on the hospital's various specialty offerings, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health.

**Other Considerations: Specialized Care and Outpatient Facilities**

Beyond the main hospitals, residents should also consider specialized care options and outpatient facilities. These can provide targeted treatment and convenient access to specific services.

**Specialty Centers:**

The region may have specialized clinics or centers focusing on areas like cancer treatment, rehabilitation, or behavioral health. Researching these facilities, their accreditations, and the expertise of their providers is crucial. The American Cancer Society and other organizations can provide information on cancer centers.

**Outpatient Facilities:**

Outpatient facilities offer a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, physical therapy, and same-day surgery. These facilities can be more convenient and often have shorter wait times than hospitals for certain procedures.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is rapidly expanding, offering significant benefits to rural communities. Telehealth platforms allow patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely, via video conferencing or phone calls. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists.

**Evaluating Telehealth Options:**

When considering telehealth, patients should evaluate the platform's ease of use, the security of their data, and the qualifications of the providers. Many hospitals and healthcare systems offer telehealth services.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

An "Overall Health Score" is a complex assessment. It considers many factors, including:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** These provide a standardized measure of hospital quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times indicate a more efficient ER.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized care is crucial.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth offers convenient access to care.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction surveys provide insights into the quality of care.
* **Physician Qualifications:** Board certifications and experience are important.
* **Hospital Accreditations:** Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission indicates quality standards.

**Making Informed Decisions:**

Residents of Honesdale (18447) should utilize the resources mentioned in this review, including the Hospital Compare website, hospital websites, and their primary care physicians, to make informed healthcare decisions. Consider your individual needs, the severity of your condition, and the specific services offered by each facility.

**Disclaimer:** This review is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. Hospital ratings and wait times can change. Always verify the most current information directly with the hospitals.