18469, Tyler Hill, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18469, Tyler Hill, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18469)

The Scranton, Pennsylvania area, anchored by the 18469 ZIP code, offers a diverse healthcare landscape. This review provides an overall health score assessment of the major hospitals serving this region, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information is crucial for informed healthcare decisions, allowing residents to navigate the system with greater confidence.

**Geisinger Health System: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger, a large integrated health system, is a dominant force in the Scranton healthcare market. While the system’s main flagship hospital, Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, is outside the immediate area, its presence is felt through several hospitals and clinics serving the 18469 ZIP code and surrounding communities.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC):** Located in Scranton, GCMC is a vital component of the Geisinger network. It is a 300-bed hospital offering a wide range of services, including a comprehensive cardiac program, a certified stroke center, and a Level II trauma center. GCMC consistently receives high marks for quality and patient safety. While specific CMS star ratings can fluctuate, GCMC typically scores above average, reflecting its commitment to providing quality care. ER wait times at GCMC vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the case, but the hospital strives to maintain reasonable wait times. Geisinger has invested heavily in telehealth, and GCMC offers various virtual care options, including virtual urgent care, specialist consultations, and chronic disease management programs.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (GWV):** Situated in nearby Wilkes-Barre, GWV serves as another major access point for Geisinger services. GWV boasts a large medical staff and a broad range of specialties. It also features a Level II trauma center. GWV's CMS star rating is generally strong, reflecting a commitment to patient safety and quality. The hospital has robust telehealth offerings, including virtual visits and remote monitoring programs. ER wait times at GWV are generally comparable to other hospitals in the region, with the hospital working to minimize patient wait times.

**Commonwealth Health: A Local Presence**

Commonwealth Health operates several hospitals in the Scranton area. While it is not as large as Geisinger, it plays a significant role in providing healthcare services.

**Moses Taylor Hospital:** Located in Scranton, Moses Taylor Hospital is a 217-bed facility. It offers a broad range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. Moses Taylor has a strong focus on patient experience and strives to maintain reasonable ER wait times. CMS star ratings for Moses Taylor can vary, but the hospital consistently works to improve its quality metrics. Telehealth services are available, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs.

**Regional Hospital of Scranton:** This hospital, also part of Commonwealth Health, provides a range of services. The hospital's CMS star rating is an important indicator of its overall quality. ER wait times at Regional Hospital can vary, but the hospital works to provide timely care. Telehealth services are available, expanding access to care for patients.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Access**

The Scranton area also benefits from specialized care centers. Geisinger and Commonwealth Health both operate cancer centers, providing comprehensive cancer treatment services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. These centers are crucial for residents needing specialized cancer care.

The availability of specialists is a critical factor in healthcare access. Both Geisinger and Commonwealth Health have diverse specialist networks, covering a wide range of medical disciplines. Patients can generally access specialists within their respective health systems.

**ER Wait Times: A Crucial Metric**

ER wait times are a significant concern for patients. Both Geisinger and Commonwealth Health hospitals track and report their ER wait times. These times can vary based on patient volume, staffing levels, and the severity of the cases. Patients should be aware of average wait times at different hospitals and consider this factor when choosing where to seek emergency care. Real-time wait time information is often available on hospital websites or through online platforms.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery. Geisinger and Commonwealth Health have invested heavily in telehealth programs, offering virtual visits, remote monitoring, and other services. These programs can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telehealth services are also helpful for managing chronic conditions and providing follow-up care.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Valuable Indicator**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. These ratings provide a valuable benchmark for comparing hospitals. Patients should consider CMS star ratings when making healthcare decisions. However, it is important to remember that these ratings are just one factor to consider, and individual patient experiences can vary.

**Comparing the Options: A Snapshot**

Comparing the hospitals near 18469 requires careful consideration of several factors. Geisinger hospitals, particularly GCMC and GWV, often receive high marks for quality and have robust telehealth offerings. Commonwealth Health hospitals, such as Moses Taylor and Regional Hospital, provide important local access to care. ER wait times, specialist availability, and the specific needs of the patient should all be taken into account.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Scranton Healthcare Landscape**

The healthcare landscape near the 18469 ZIP code offers a range of options for residents. Geisinger and Commonwealth Health are the dominant players, with both systems providing a wide array of services. Patients should research the hospitals in their area, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities. By carefully evaluating these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and access the best possible care for their needs. Regular updates on hospital performance metrics are essential for staying informed about the evolving healthcare landscape.