18459, South Canaan, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18459, South Canaan, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Waymart, PA (ZIP Code 18459)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Waymart, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18459), understanding the quality and accessibility of nearby hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, analyzing key factors like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, and telehealth availability. This information aims to empower informed healthcare decisions.

**The Landscape: Limited Options, Regional Reach**

Waymart, a small community in northeastern Pennsylvania, has limited immediate hospital options. Residents primarily rely on hospitals located in surrounding towns and cities, making regional access a critical consideration. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering both proximity and the quality of care.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings: A Gauge of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) uses a star rating system to evaluate hospitals based on various quality measures. These ratings offer a valuable, albeit simplified, snapshot of hospital performance.

**Geisinger Health System:** Geisinger, a prominent regional healthcare provider, operates several hospitals within reach of Waymart. Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, approximately 30 miles away, holds a **3-star CMS rating**. This rating reflects performance across areas like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre, roughly 45 miles away, also boasts a **3-star rating**. While these ratings are not the highest possible, they indicate a commitment to quality and provide a baseline for comparison.

**Commonwealth Health System:** Commonwealth Health, another major player in the region, operates several hospitals. Regional Hospital of Scranton, about 30 miles from Waymart, currently does not have a publicly available CMS star rating. However, this should not be taken as a sign of poor performance.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Metric**

Emergency room wait times are a significant factor in patient satisfaction and, in some cases, can impact health outcomes. Shorter wait times generally indicate more efficient emergency care.

**Geisinger Hospitals:** Geisinger Community Medical Center typically reports average ER wait times of around 30-60 minutes, though these times can fluctuate depending on patient volume and the severity of cases. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center often experiences similar wait times, averaging between 30 and 75 minutes. It's important to note that these are averages, and individual experiences may vary.

**Commonwealth Health Hospitals:** Regional Hospital of Scranton’s ER wait times are variable and can be longer, often exceeding an hour. These times are influenced by factors like staffing levels and the overall demand on the emergency department.

**Specialty Centers: Accessing Specialized Care**

The availability of specialized medical services is a key consideration for patients with specific health needs.

**Geisinger:** Geisinger hospitals offer a comprehensive range of specialties. Both Geisinger Community Medical Center and Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center have robust cardiology, oncology, and surgical departments. Geisinger is also known for its advanced cancer care programs and its commitment to research and innovation.

**Commonwealth Health:** Regional Hospital of Scranton provides a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and gastroenterology. The hospital is equipped to handle a variety of medical conditions and surgical procedures.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas, providing patients with convenient access to healthcare services.

**Geisinger:** Geisinger has a well-established telehealth program, offering virtual appointments for various specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and chronic disease management. This allows patients to consult with providers remotely, reducing the need for travel.

**Commonwealth Health:** Commonwealth Health is also expanding its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. The availability of specific telehealth services may vary depending on the hospital and the specialty.

**Specific Hospital Analysis:**

**Geisinger Community Medical Center (Scranton):** This hospital offers a broad range of services, including a cardiac catheterization lab, advanced imaging capabilities, and a comprehensive cancer center. Its 3-star CMS rating is a good starting point for evaluating quality. The hospital’s location in Scranton makes it relatively accessible for Waymart residents.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes-Barre):** This hospital provides a high level of care, including a Level II Trauma Center. The hospital’s 3-star rating reflects its commitment to quality and patient safety. The longer drive time from Waymart is a consideration.

**Regional Hospital of Scranton (Commonwealth Health):** This hospital offers a variety of medical services, including a comprehensive stroke center. The hospital's location in Scranton makes it relatively accessible for Waymart residents.

**Other Considerations:**

* **Patient Reviews:** Online patient reviews can provide valuable insights into individual experiences with hospitals and physicians. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals offer patient reviews and ratings.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its providers accept your insurance plan.
* **Hospital Affiliations:** Consider the hospital's affiliations with other healthcare providers, such as specialists and outpatient clinics.
* **Community Resources:** Explore local community resources, such as support groups and patient advocacy organizations.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

Based on the factors discussed, the hospitals near Waymart offer a mixed bag of strengths and weaknesses. Geisinger hospitals, with their established reputation and telehealth programs, provide a good option for many residents. However, the longer wait times at some ERs and the travel time to some hospitals are important considerations. Commonwealth Health hospitals offer another option, but with varying wait times.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize Geisinger Hospitals:** Geisinger Community Medical Center and Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center are generally good choices, particularly for those seeking specialized care or telehealth options.
* **Consider ER Wait Times:** Be aware of potential ER wait times and consider the severity of your condition when choosing an emergency room.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Take advantage of telehealth services to access convenient and timely care.
* **Research Patient Reviews:** Read online patient reviews to gain insights into individual experiences.
* **Verify Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its providers accept your insurance plan.

**Disclaimer:** This "Overall Health Score" is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any health concerns. Hospital performance can change, so it's essential to stay informed about the latest developments.