18457, Rowland, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18457, Rowland, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Waymart, PA (ZIP Code 18457)

Navigating healthcare can feel like traversing a complex maze. For residents near Waymart, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18457), understanding the landscape of local hospitals is crucial for making informed decisions about their health. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability, to help residents assess their options.

**Defining the Scope:**

The primary focus of this review centers on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Waymart, PA. This includes facilities in Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, and surrounding areas. The assessment prioritizes hospitals that are easily accessible and commonly utilized by residents of the 18457 ZIP code.

**Understanding the Metrics:**

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single, standardized number. Instead, it represents a synthesis of various metrics, including:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings (1-5 stars) to hospitals based on quality measures, patient experience, and other factors. These ratings offer a readily accessible gauge of overall hospital performance.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** This is a critical factor, reflecting the speed with which patients receive care in urgent situations. Data is sourced from publicly available information and hospital websites.
* **Specialty Centers:** The presence and quality of specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics, are essential for addressing complex medical needs.
* **Telehealth Availability:** The integration of telehealth services allows for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, enhancing access to care.
* **Hospital Affiliations and Networks:** Being part of a larger healthcare network can provide access to a broader range of specialists, resources, and coordinated care.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** While subjective, patient reviews offer insights into the patient experience and can highlight areas of strength and weakness.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance:**

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes-Barre, PA):**

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center is a major player in the region. It is a large, tertiary care center, and is part of the Geisinger Health System. The hospital is known for its comprehensive services, including a Level II Trauma Center, a robust cardiology program, and advanced cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** The hospital's CMS star rating fluctuates. It is essential to check the most current rating on the CMS website.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary depending on the time of day and patient volume. It is advisable to check the hospital's website or call ahead for current estimates.
* **Specialty Centers:** Geisinger Wyoming Valley boasts specialized centers for cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and women's health. The hospital is also known for its advanced stroke care.
* **Telehealth:** Geisinger Health System has a strong telehealth presence, offering virtual visits, remote monitoring, and online access to medical records.
* **Overall Assessment:** Geisinger Wyoming Valley is a well-equipped hospital with a wide range of services. Its affiliation with the Geisinger Health System provides access to a large network of specialists and resources.

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

Moses Taylor Hospital is a well-established hospital in Scranton. It is a part of the Commonwealth Health system.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Check the most current rating on the CMS website.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times should be checked on the hospital's website or by calling ahead.
* **Specialty Centers:** Moses Taylor offers services in cardiology, orthopedics, and other specialties.
* **Telehealth:** Moses Taylor has expanded its telehealth capabilities.
* **Overall Assessment:** Moses Taylor provides a range of services and is a convenient option for Scranton-area residents.

**Regional Hospital of Scranton (Scranton, PA):**

Regional Hospital of Scranton is another major hospital in the Scranton area. It is known for its focus on patient-centered care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Check the most current rating on the CMS website.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times should be checked on the hospital's website or by calling ahead.
* **Specialty Centers:** Regional Hospital has specialty programs in cardiology, orthopedics, and other areas.
* **Telehealth:** The hospital offers telehealth services.
* **Overall Assessment:** Regional Hospital is a significant healthcare provider in the Scranton area.

**Community Hospitals and Considerations:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, residents of the 18457 ZIP code may also consider smaller community hospitals and urgent care centers. These facilities may offer quicker access for less severe conditions. However, they may not have the same breadth of specialty services as the larger hospitals.

**The Impact of ER Wait Times:**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, particularly in emergency situations. Longer wait times can lead to increased anxiety and potentially delay critical treatment. It is advisable to check the current wait times online or by phone before heading to the ER, especially during peak hours.

**Specialty Centers: Addressing Specific Needs:**

The availability of specialized centers is crucial for patients with specific medical conditions. For instance, those with heart conditions should seek hospitals with strong cardiology programs, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. Cancer patients benefit from access to comprehensive oncology services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. Orthopedic patients require hospitals with experienced orthopedic surgeons and rehabilitation services.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. It allows patients to consult with doctors remotely, access follow-up care, and manage chronic conditions from the comfort of their homes. Hospitals with robust telehealth programs can provide convenient access to care for residents of the 18457 ZIP code.

**Hospital Affiliations and Networks: The Power of Collaboration:**

Hospitals that are part of larger healthcare networks often have access to a broader range of specialists, resources, and coordinated care. These networks can facilitate referrals, share best practices, and improve patient outcomes.

**Patient Reviews and Satisfaction: The Voice of Experience:**

Patient reviews and satisfaction scores provide valuable insights into the patient experience. These reviews can highlight areas of strength, such as compassionate care and efficient service, as well as areas for improvement, such as long wait times or communication issues.

**Overall Health Score Considerations for Waymart Residents:**

For residents of Waymart, PA, the "Overall Health Score" is influenced by several factors:

* **Proximity:** The distance to the hospital is a primary consideration, especially in emergencies.
* **Specialty Needs:** Patients with specific medical needs should prioritize hospitals with the appropriate specialty centers.
* **ER Wait Times:** Quick access to emergency care is critical.
* **Telehealth Access:** The availability of telehealth services can improve access to care, especially for routine appointments and follow-up visits.
* **Hospital Reputation and Reviews:** Patient reviews and hospital ratings provide valuable information about the quality of care and patient experience.

**Recommendations:**

Residents of the 18457 ZIP code should research and compare the hospitals in their area, considering the factors discussed above. They should also:

* **Check CMS Star Ratings:** Regularly review the CMS star ratings for hospitals to assess their overall quality.
* **Inquire About ER Wait Times:** Contact hospitals or check their websites for current ER wait times.
* **Assess Specialty Needs:** Identify their specific healthcare needs and choose hospitals with the appropriate specialty centers.
* **Explore Telehealth Options:** Inquire about telehealth services offered by local hospitals.
* **Read Patient Reviews:** Consult patient reviews and satisfaction surveys to gain insights into the patient experience.
* **Consult with Primary Care Physicians:** Discuss their healthcare needs with their primary care physicians, who can provide personalized recommendations.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital is a personal decision. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this review, residents of the 18457 ZIP code can make informed choices about their healthcare, ensuring they receive the best possible care for their individual needs. This "Overall Health Score" assessment provides a starting point for their research, empowering them to navigate the healthcare landscape with confidence. Remember to always verify the most current information on hospital websites and the CMS website, as ratings and services can change.