18456, Prompton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18456, Prompton, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18456)

The Scranton, Pennsylvania area, encompassing ZIP code 18456 and its surrounding communities, offers a landscape of healthcare options, ranging from large, multi-specialty hospitals to smaller community facilities. Evaluating these options requires a nuanced approach, considering factors beyond just proximity. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, factoring in quality metrics, accessibility, specialized services, and technological integration.

**The Flagship Institutions: A Deep Dive**

The dominant players in the region are Geisinger and Commonwealth Health, each representing significant networks with multiple facilities. These institutions are the cornerstones of healthcare access for residents.

**Geisinger: A Network of Strength**

Geisinger, a large integrated health system, maintains a strong presence in the Scranton area. Its flagship hospital, **Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC)** in Scranton (though not directly within 18456, it serves the area) is a critical component. GCMC holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating, while not the highest, reflects a hospital that generally meets quality standards. The CMS star rating system evaluates hospitals based on various factors, including mortality rates, safety of care, readmission rates, and patient experience.

Geisinger's strength lies in its integrated model. This means that patients can often access a seamless continuum of care, from primary care physicians to specialists and hospital services, all within the Geisinger network. Geisinger has invested heavily in telehealth, offering a range of virtual care options. Specific statistics on telehealth utilization for patients near 18456 are difficult to obtain publicly, but Geisinger's overall telehealth program is robust, providing remote consultations, chronic disease management programs, and virtual urgent care.

Geisinger's specialty centers are a major draw. They have a strong cardiology program, cancer care through its Cancer Institute, and a comprehensive women's health center. The hospital also has a dedicated stroke center. While specific wait times fluctuate, Geisinger Community Medical Center's Emergency Room (ER) wait times are generally in line with regional averages, often fluctuating between 30 and 60 minutes. However, these times can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the severity of patient needs.

**Commonwealth Health: A Regional Presence**

Commonwealth Health is another significant player, operating several hospitals in the region. **Regional Hospital of Scranton** is a primary facility within this network. The CMS star rating for Regional Hospital of Scranton is also **3 stars**. Similar to Geisinger, this rating indicates a facility that generally meets established quality standards.

Commonwealth Health’s strength is in its wide geographic reach. Regional Hospital of Scranton provides a broad range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized medical care. Commonwealth Health also offers various outpatient services and rehabilitation programs.

Commonwealth Health also has a focus on specialized care. They have a strong cardiology program, orthopedics, and a dedicated stroke center. Emergency room wait times at Regional Hospital of Scranton are comparable to those at Geisinger, with fluctuations depending on the time of day and patient volume.

**Smaller Hospitals and Urgent Care Options**

Beyond the major hospital networks, the Scranton area offers a range of smaller hospitals and urgent care facilities. These options can provide more convenient access for certain types of care, particularly for non-life-threatening conditions.

Several urgent care centers are located in and around the 18456 ZIP code. These facilities offer convenient access to care for minor illnesses and injuries, often with shorter wait times than a hospital ER. However, it is important to note that urgent care centers are not equipped to handle severe medical emergencies.

**Evaluating the Overall Health Score: Key Metrics**

The "Overall Health Score" for the Scranton area hospitals is not a single, definitive number. Instead, it's a composite assessment based on several key factors.

* **Quality of Care:** CMS star ratings are a starting point, but they don't tell the whole story. Hospitals' performance on specific quality measures, such as infection rates, surgical outcomes, and patient satisfaction scores, are crucial.
* **Accessibility:** Geographic proximity, wait times in the ER, and the availability of appointments all impact accessibility. The availability of public transportation and the ability to navigate the healthcare system are also important considerations.
* **Specialized Services:** The presence of specialized centers, such as cardiology, cancer care, and stroke centers, is a significant factor. The quality and reputation of these centers are also critical.
* **Technology and Innovation:** The adoption of telehealth, electronic health records, and other technological advancements can improve patient care and convenience.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores, as well as online reviews, provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Both Geisinger and Commonwealth Health have invested in telehealth programs. Telehealth offers patients the convenience of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and access to specialists who may not be readily available in person.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

ER wait times are a significant concern for many patients. Both Geisinger Community Medical Center and Regional Hospital of Scranton experience fluctuations in wait times. These times can be influenced by factors such as the volume of patients, the severity of their conditions, and the availability of staff. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times and consider alternative options, such as urgent care centers, for non-life-threatening conditions.

**Specific Considerations for Residents Near 18456**

Residents in and around the 18456 ZIP code are well-served by the proximity of Geisinger Community Medical Center and Regional Hospital of Scranton. The choice of which hospital to use will depend on individual needs, preferences, and the specific services required. For primary care, patients are advised to find a local physician and follow their recommendations.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Assessment**

The healthcare landscape near Scranton, PA (ZIP code 18456) offers a range of options. Geisinger and Commonwealth Health are the dominant players, providing comprehensive services and specialized care. Smaller hospitals and urgent care centers offer alternative options for specific needs. The "Overall Health Score" is strong, but patients should carefully consider their individual needs, research available options, and make informed decisions about their healthcare. The CMS star ratings provide a useful starting point, but they should be considered alongside other factors, such as accessibility, specialized services, and patient experience.