18470, Union Dale, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18470, Union Dale, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Waymart, PA (ZIP Code 18470)

Navigating healthcare can feel like traversing a complex maze. For residents of Waymart, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18470) and the surrounding areas, understanding the landscape of available medical facilities is crucial. This review provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, considering factors like hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services, to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**The Landscape: A Focus on Proximity and Options**

Waymart, a small borough in Wayne County, benefits from its proximity to larger towns and cities, expanding the range of healthcare options. The primary focus of this review will be on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering both accessibility and the breadth of services offered. This includes facilities in Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, and surrounding areas.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Deep Dive into Quality**

The cornerstone of any healthcare assessment is the quality of the hospitals themselves. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system, a valuable tool for comparing hospitals based on various quality metrics. While CMS ratings are not the sole indicator of a hospital's excellence, they offer a standardized measure for comparison.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center (Scranton, PA):** Located approximately 30 miles from Waymart, Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC) is a major player in the region. GCMC is part of the larger Geisinger Health System, known for its integrated approach to healthcare. While specific CMS star ratings fluctuate, Geisinger facilities generally score well. The hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including cardiology, oncology, and surgical specialties. It’s a significant regional hub, providing a broad base of care.

**Moses Taylor Hospital (Scranton, PA):** Also in Scranton, Moses Taylor Hospital, part of Commonwealth Health, is another important option. Moses Taylor provides a variety of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized treatments. Like GCMC, the hospital's CMS star rating is a key factor in evaluating its overall quality. The hospital’s performance in patient safety and outcomes is a critical consideration.

**Regional Hospital of Scranton (Scranton, PA):** Another Scranton-based hospital, Regional Hospital, provides comprehensive care. Regional Hospital has a range of specialties and services, making it a valuable resource for the community. The hospital’s performance in patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes is a critical factor in evaluating its overall quality.

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

Emergency room (ER) wait times are a crucial factor for anyone facing a medical emergency. Long wait times can significantly impact patient outcomes. While specific wait times can vary based on the time of day and the severity of the case, general trends provide insight into the efficiency of each hospital's ER.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center:** Geisinger Health System typically reports its ER wait times, which can be accessed online or through public health resources. These wait times are a key consideration for residents of the area.

**Moses Taylor Hospital:** Like Geisinger, Moses Taylor Hospital’s ER wait times are generally available. These times are a key factor for anyone needing immediate medical attention.

**Regional Hospital of Scranton:** Regional Hospital also publishes ER wait times, providing transparency for patients. These times are a critical factor for anyone needing immediate medical attention.

**Specialty Centers: Addressing Specific Needs**

Beyond general care, specialized centers cater to specific medical needs. The availability of these centers is a major factor in the overall health score.

**Cardiology:** Both Geisinger and Moses Taylor Hospital offer robust cardiology services, including diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation. These services are crucial for residents with heart conditions.

**Oncology:** Cancer care is another critical area. Geisinger Health System, with its comprehensive cancer centers, provides a wide range of oncology services, from diagnosis and treatment to supportive care.

**Orthopedics:** For musculoskeletal issues, both hospitals offer orthopedic services, including joint replacements, sports medicine, and fracture care.

**Women's Health:** Access to women's health services, including obstetrics and gynecology, is essential. Both hospitals offer these services, ensuring comprehensive care for women.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. It provides access to healthcare professionals remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists.

**Geisinger Health System:** Geisinger has a strong telehealth presence, offering virtual visits for a variety of specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and chronic disease management. This is a major advantage for residents in the area.

**Moses Taylor Hospital:** Telehealth offerings at Moses Taylor Hospital are also growing, providing more options for patients to connect with their healthcare providers remotely.

**Regional Hospital of Scranton:** Regional Hospital is also expanding its telehealth capabilities, offering more options for patients to connect with their healthcare providers remotely.

**Other Considerations: Beyond the Hospital Walls**

The "Overall Health Score" also considers factors beyond the hospitals themselves.

**Primary Care Physicians:** Access to primary care physicians (PCPs) is essential for preventive care and managing chronic conditions. The availability of PCPs accepting new patients is a critical factor.

**Specialist Availability:** The ease of access to specialists, such as cardiologists, oncologists, and neurologists, is also important.

**Mental Health Services:** Access to mental health services is critical. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and mental health clinics is a significant consideration.

**Community Resources:** The presence of community resources, such as support groups, wellness programs, and social services, enhances the overall health score.

**Specific Considerations for Waymart Residents**

For residents of Waymart, the travel distance to Scranton is a key factor. While the hospitals in Scranton offer comprehensive services, the travel time must be considered, especially during emergencies. The availability of urgent care clinics closer to Waymart can provide immediate care for less serious conditions.

**Overall Health Score: A Preliminary Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed, a preliminary "Overall Health Score" for residents near Waymart, PA, would be considered **Good**. The area benefits from:

* **Proximity to Scranton:** Access to reputable hospitals like Geisinger Community Medical Center, Moses Taylor Hospital, and Regional Hospital of Scranton, offering a wide range of services.
* **Specialty Care Availability:** Access to specialized services, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.
* **Telehealth Options:** The growing availability of telehealth services, particularly through Geisinger, enhancing access to care.

**Areas for Improvement:**

* **ER Wait Times:** Monitor and assess ER wait times at each hospital.
* **Accessibility:** Consider the availability of public transportation or transportation assistance for those without personal vehicles.
* **Mental Health Services:** Ensure adequate access to mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

This "Overall Health Score" review provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape near Waymart, PA. Residents should use this information, along with their own individual needs and preferences, to make informed decisions about their healthcare. It's essential to research individual hospitals, consult with healthcare providers, and stay informed about changes in the healthcare system. By taking a proactive approach, residents can ensure they receive the best possible care.