18519, Scranton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18519, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18519)

The Scranton, Pennsylvania area, anchored by the 18519 ZIP code, presents a diverse healthcare landscape. Assessing the "Overall Health Score" requires a comprehensive look at hospital quality, accessibility, and available services. This review focuses on key institutions, providing data-driven insights to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

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

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings offer a widely recognized benchmark for hospital quality. These ratings, based on a variety of factors including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience, provide a readily accessible snapshot of performance.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC):** Located in Scranton, GCMC is a major player in the region. As of the most recent CMS data, GCMC holds a respectable star rating. This rating reflects its performance across various quality measures, including patient safety indicators, readmission rates, and timely and effective care delivery. GCMC's commitment to patient-centered care is evident in its focus on improving the patient experience. The hospital's comprehensive services, including specialized cardiology and surgical units, make it a critical resource for the community.

**Moses Taylor Hospital:** Another prominent hospital serving the Scranton area, Moses Taylor Hospital, also holds a CMS star rating. This rating provides a comparative measure of its quality performance. The hospital offers a wide array of services, including a robust emergency department and specialized programs. The hospital's focus on advanced technology and skilled medical professionals contributes to its overall quality.

**Accessibility: Navigating Emergency Rooms and Wait Times**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor in assessing healthcare accessibility. Long wait times can indicate overcrowding, staffing shortages, or operational inefficiencies.

**GCMC's ER:** GCMC's emergency department is a vital resource for the community. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, it is important to monitor the hospital's website or use online tools to check current wait times. Factors such as the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition can all influence wait times.

**Moses Taylor Hospital's ER:** Moses Taylor Hospital also maintains a busy emergency department. Similar to GCMC, it is important to consult the hospital's website or other resources to get an estimate of current wait times. Evaluating wait times is a critical aspect of assessing accessibility, especially in urgent situations.

**Specialty Centers: Addressing Specific Healthcare Needs**

The availability of specialized medical centers is essential for addressing specific health conditions and complex medical needs.

**Cardiology at GCMC:** GCMC's cardiology program is a significant asset to the community. The hospital provides comprehensive cardiac care, including diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation. The presence of a dedicated cardiology center ensures that patients with heart conditions have access to specialized expertise and advanced treatments.

**Orthopedics at Moses Taylor Hospital:** Moses Taylor Hospital offers a robust orthopedic program. The hospital provides a wide range of orthopedic services, including joint replacements, sports medicine, and fracture care. The availability of specialized orthopedic care is critical for patients with musculoskeletal injuries and conditions.

**Cancer Care: The Role of Regional Cancer Centers:**

The Scranton area benefits from access to regional cancer centers, which provide comprehensive cancer care services. These centers offer advanced treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology.

**Telehealth: Expanding Healthcare Access**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important in expanding healthcare access, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas.

**Telehealth at GCMC:** GCMC has embraced telehealth, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This allows patients to access healthcare from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for in-person visits. The hospital's telehealth initiatives enhance accessibility and improve patient convenience.

**Telehealth at Moses Taylor Hospital:** Moses Taylor Hospital also offers telehealth services. These services can include virtual appointments with specialists, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and educational programs. Telehealth plays a crucial role in improving patient outcomes and expanding access to care.

**Mental Health Services: Addressing a Critical Need**

Mental health services are an essential component of overall healthcare. The availability of mental health resources can significantly impact the well-being of the community.

**Mental Health Services at GCMC:** GCMC provides mental health services, including inpatient and outpatient programs. These programs offer a range of treatments, including therapy, medication management, and support groups. The hospital's commitment to mental health is a vital component of its overall healthcare offerings.

**Mental Health Services at Moses Taylor Hospital:** Moses Taylor Hospital also offers mental health services, including inpatient psychiatric care and outpatient counseling. The hospital's mental health programs are designed to address a variety of mental health conditions and provide comprehensive support to patients.

**Community Health and Preventive Care**

Beyond acute care, the availability of community health programs and preventive care services is essential for promoting overall health and well-being.

**Community Outreach at GCMC:** GCMC actively engages in community outreach programs, providing health education, screenings, and wellness initiatives. These programs are designed to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent chronic diseases. The hospital's commitment to community health reflects its dedication to improving the overall health of the population.

**Preventive Care at Moses Taylor Hospital:** Moses Taylor Hospital emphasizes preventive care, offering services such as vaccinations, health screenings, and wellness programs. Preventive care plays a crucial role in early detection of diseases and promoting healthy behaviors.

**Financial Considerations: Insurance and Cost of Care**

The cost of healthcare and insurance coverage are significant factors in accessing and utilizing healthcare services.

**Insurance Coverage:** Both GCMC and Moses Taylor Hospital accept a wide range of insurance plans. Patients should verify their insurance coverage with their respective providers to ensure that they are covered for the services they need.

**Cost of Care:** The cost of healthcare can vary depending on the services provided, the patient's insurance coverage, and other factors. Patients should inquire about the cost of care before receiving services and explore options for financial assistance if needed.

**Patient Experience: The Human Element**

Patient experience is a crucial indicator of hospital quality. Factors such as communication with healthcare providers, cleanliness of facilities, and the overall level of care contribute to the patient experience.

**Patient Satisfaction at GCMC:** GCMC strives to provide a positive patient experience. The hospital regularly surveys patients to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement. The hospital's commitment to patient-centered care is reflected in its efforts to enhance the patient experience.

**Patient Satisfaction at Moses Taylor Hospital:** Moses Taylor Hospital also prioritizes patient satisfaction. The hospital actively seeks feedback from patients and implements strategies to improve the overall patient experience. The hospital's focus on patient satisfaction is a key component of its commitment to quality care.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Assessment**

The healthcare landscape near Scranton, PA (ZIP code 18519) presents a mix of strengths and areas for improvement. Both GCMC and Moses Taylor Hospital are key players, each offering a range of services and holding CMS star ratings that provide a baseline for quality. Accessibility, particularly regarding ER wait times, should be carefully considered. The availability of specialty centers, telehealth services, and mental health programs further enhances the healthcare options available to residents. The community benefits from regional cancer centers and community health initiatives. While the cost of care and insurance coverage are important factors, both hospitals are committed to patient satisfaction. Residents should actively research their specific needs, consider the factors outlined above, and make informed decisions about their healthcare. This overall health score review offers a starting point for navigating the healthcare options in the Scranton area, empowering residents to prioritize their health and well-being.