18510, Scranton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18510, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18510)

This review provides an in-depth analysis of healthcare options available near Scranton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18510), focusing on hospital performance, accessibility, and patient experience. We'll delve into key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment. This information is crucial for residents seeking quality medical care in the area.

**The Landscape of Care: Key Players**

The primary players in the Scranton healthcare market are Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC) and Moses Taylor Hospital. These institutions serve as the cornerstones of medical care for the region. Other facilities, such as the Commonwealth Health Regional Hospital of Scranton, also contribute to the overall healthcare ecosystem. The availability of these hospitals provides residents with a range of choices, but understanding their strengths and weaknesses is paramount.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC): A Detailed Look**

Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC), located in Scranton, is a significant healthcare provider. It is a part of the larger Geisinger Health System, which is known for its integrated approach to healthcare. GCMC's performance is a crucial factor in the overall health score for the area.

* **CMS Star Rating:** GCMC currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's essential to consider the specific areas where GCMC excels and where it may need improvement.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times are a critical concern for patients. Data indicates that GCMC's ER wait times can fluctuate, so checking real-time wait times through online resources or calling the hospital directly before visiting is advisable. Long wait times can be indicative of high patient volume or staffing challenges.
* **Specialty Centers:** GCMC offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. The availability of these centers is a significant advantage for local residents. The quality and accessibility of these specialty services are crucial factors in the overall health score.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Geisinger Health System has invested heavily in telehealth. GCMC likely offers telehealth services, providing patients with remote access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and chronic disease management. Telehealth expands access to care, particularly for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient experience is a critical component of overall health. Patient satisfaction scores, as measured through surveys like the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS), provide valuable insights into the patient experience. GCMC's patient satisfaction scores should be considered alongside other quality metrics.

**Moses Taylor Hospital: Assessing Performance**

Moses Taylor Hospital, another major player in the Scranton healthcare market, also plays a vital role in the community's health.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Moses Taylor Hospital also holds a 3-star rating from CMS, similar to GCMC. This suggests a comparable level of performance across various quality indicators.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Moses Taylor Hospital are another important factor. Checking real-time wait times is recommended.
* **Specialty Centers:** Moses Taylor Hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. The availability and quality of these services contribute to the overall health score.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Moses Taylor Hospital likely offers telehealth services, expanding access to care for patients.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores are essential. Reviewing patient feedback provides insights into the overall experience at Moses Taylor Hospital.

**Commonwealth Health Regional Hospital of Scranton: A Contributor**

Commonwealth Health Regional Hospital of Scranton also contributes to the healthcare landscape in the area.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Information on the current CMS star rating for Commonwealth Health Regional Hospital of Scranton should be reviewed.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at this hospital are important.
* **Specialty Centers:** The availability of specialty services at this hospital is also important.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Assessing the telehealth services offered.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores are important.

**Comparing and Contrasting: Key Considerations**

When comparing the hospitals near 18510, several factors are crucial. CMS star ratings provide a general overview of quality, but they don't tell the whole story. ER wait times can significantly impact patient experience, especially in emergencies. The availability of specialized services is critical for patients with specific medical needs. Telehealth capabilities can enhance access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues or living in remote areas. Patient experience, as measured through surveys and reviews, provides valuable insights into the quality of care.

**Accessibility and Geographic Considerations**

The geographic location of hospitals relative to the 18510 ZIP code is an important factor. Residents should consider the proximity of each hospital, traffic patterns, and ease of access. Public transportation options should also be considered. The availability of urgent care centers and other outpatient facilities in the area can also influence the overall health score.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery. The ability to access virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other services is increasingly important. Hospitals in the 18510 area should be assessed for their telehealth offerings. This includes the types of services offered, the ease of use of the platform, and the availability of technical support. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions, those living in rural areas, and those seeking convenient follow-up care.

**Outpatient Services and Ancillary Care**

The availability of outpatient services, such as diagnostic imaging, physical therapy, and laboratory testing, is also a factor. The proximity of these services to the hospitals and the quality of care provided are important considerations. Access to ancillary services, such as pharmacies and home healthcare agencies, can also impact the overall health score.

**Community Health Initiatives**

Hospitals often participate in community health initiatives, such as health screenings, educational programs, and support groups. These initiatives can contribute to the overall health and well-being of the community. The involvement of hospitals in these initiatives should be considered when assessing the overall health score.

**Conclusion: Overall Health Score Assessment**

Based on the available information, the overall health score for the 18510 area is influenced by the performance of Geisinger Community Medical Center, Moses Taylor Hospital, and Commonwealth Health Regional Hospital of Scranton. Both GCMC and Moses Taylor Hospital currently hold 3-star ratings from CMS, indicating average performance. ER wait times, specialty center availability, telehealth capabilities, and patient experience are crucial factors to consider when choosing a hospital. Residents should research each hospital's specific services and programs to determine which best meets their individual needs. The ongoing development of telehealth services and community health initiatives will continue to shape the overall health score for the 18510 area. It is recommended that residents stay informed about the latest developments in healthcare and regularly review hospital performance data to make informed decisions about their care.