18464, Tafton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18464, Tafton, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Waymart, PA (ZIP Code 18464)

The picturesque rural community surrounding Waymart, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18464) presents unique healthcare access challenges. Residents often rely on hospitals located a considerable distance away, making timely and comprehensive care a critical concern. This review assesses the overall health score of hospitals serving this area, considering factors from quality ratings to emergency room wait times, specialty offerings, and telehealth availability.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The cornerstone of any healthcare assessment lies in the performance of the flagship hospitals. For residents of 18464, the primary options are located in Scranton and surrounding areas. Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC) in Scranton is a major player. As of late 2023, GCMC holds a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a facility that performs adequately but may have areas needing improvement in areas like patient safety and care coordination.

Another prominent facility is Moses Taylor Hospital, also in Scranton. Moses Taylor, as of late 2023, also holds a 3-star CMS rating. This suggests a similar level of performance compared to GCMC, with potential areas for improvement. The CMS star rating system is a valuable, though imperfect, metric. It provides a snapshot of hospital performance based on various quality measures, including mortality rates, readmission rates, and patient experience.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of a hospital's ability to handle urgent medical needs. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate significantly, but generally, residents of 18464 should anticipate some waiting. Both GCMC and Moses Taylor Hospital, being larger facilities, often experience higher ER volumes. While specific real-time data is constantly changing, it is advisable to check online resources like the hospital websites or third-party sites such as Healthgrades or Vitals for the most up-to-date wait time estimates. These estimates can vary based on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of cases.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

The availability of specialized medical services is another critical factor in assessing healthcare quality. Both GCMC and Moses Taylor offer a range of specialty centers. GCMC has a strong cardiology program, with a focus on cardiac care and interventional procedures. Moses Taylor is known for its comprehensive cancer care services, including radiation oncology and surgical oncology. Both hospitals provide comprehensive surgical services, including general surgery, orthopedic surgery, and minimally invasive procedures.

For residents with specific needs, such as women's health, both hospitals offer obstetrics and gynecology services. They also provide pediatric care, although specialized pediatric subspecialties may require referrals to larger facilities in the region or beyond. Mental health services are available at both hospitals, though access to these services can sometimes be limited due to high demand and staffing challenges.

**Telehealth Availability and Integration:**

Telehealth has become an increasingly important component of healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas where access to in-person appointments can be difficult. Both GCMC and Moses Taylor have expanded their telehealth offerings in recent years. Telehealth services can include virtual doctor visits, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and mental health counseling. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care for residents of 18464, reducing the need for travel and enabling more timely interventions. The ease of use of the telehealth platforms and the range of services offered are key factors to consider.

**Other Important Considerations:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, residents of 18464 may also seek care at smaller hospitals or clinics in the surrounding areas. These facilities can offer convenient access for routine medical needs and basic emergency care. However, they may not have the same breadth of specialty services as the larger hospitals.

Access to primary care physicians is another critical factor. The availability of primary care doctors who accept new patients can be a challenge in rural areas. Residents should research the availability of primary care providers in their area and consider the potential need for travel to access these services.

**Specific Hospital Profiles and Considerations:**

* **Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC):** GCMC's 3-star CMS rating suggests a need for ongoing improvement, but its strong cardiology program and surgical services are valuable assets. Residents should be aware of potential ER wait times and the need for referrals for certain specialized services. The expansion of telehealth services is a positive development.
* **Moses Taylor Hospital:** Moses Taylor's 3-star CMS rating reflects a similar level of performance to GCMC. Its comprehensive cancer care program is a major advantage. Residents should consider ER wait times and the availability of specialized services when making healthcare decisions. The hospital's telehealth offerings are also a key consideration.

**Community Health and Wellness:**

Beyond the hospitals themselves, the overall health score is also influenced by community health initiatives and resources. Access to preventive care, such as vaccinations and screenings, is crucial. Residents should be aware of local health programs and resources that promote wellness and disease prevention. The availability of community health centers and free or low-cost clinics can be particularly important for underserved populations.

**Conclusion: Overall Health Score for 18464**

The overall health score for residents near Waymart, PA (18464) is characterized by both strengths and challenges. The presence of established hospitals like GCMC and Moses Taylor provides access to a range of medical services, including specialized care. However, the 3-star CMS ratings for these hospitals indicate areas for improvement in overall quality and patient safety.

ER wait times can be a concern, and residents should be prepared for potential delays. The availability of telehealth services offers a promising avenue for improving access to care, especially for those in remote areas. The success of the telehealth initiatives will depend on the ease of use of the platforms, the range of services offered, and the ability of patients to access the technology required to participate.

The availability of primary care physicians and access to preventive care are crucial factors to consider. Residents should actively seek out information about local health programs and resources.

**Recommendations:**

* **Research Hospital Performance:** Before seeking care, residents should research the performance of hospitals, including CMS star ratings, patient reviews, and ER wait times.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Embrace telehealth options to improve access to care and reduce the need for travel.
* **Establish a Primary Care Physician:** Secure a primary care physician for routine care and referrals to specialists.
* **Prioritize Preventive Care:** Take advantage of preventive care services, such as vaccinations and screenings, to promote overall health.
* **Stay Informed:** Stay informed about local health programs and resources.

The overall health score for 18464 is moderate, reflecting a healthcare landscape with both opportunities and challenges. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this review and actively engaging in their healthcare, residents can make informed decisions and optimize their health outcomes. Continuous monitoring of hospital performance, expansion of telehealth services, and a focus on community health initiatives are crucial for improving the overall health score in this rural Pennsylvania community.