18603, Berwick, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18603, Berwick, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Dallas, PA (ZIP Code 18603)

The health landscape surrounding Dallas, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18603) offers a spectrum of healthcare options, ranging from large, regional medical centers to smaller, specialized facilities. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like hospital quality ratings, emergency room performance, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide residents with a clear understanding of the healthcare resources available in their vicinity.

**The Flagship: Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center**

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (GWVMC) in Wilkes-Barre, PA, is the dominant player in the region. It's a large, acute-care hospital and a major referral center. GWVMC holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest possible rating, it reflects a generally acceptable level of quality, with areas for potential improvement. The CMS rating is based on several factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

**Emergency Room Performance: A Critical Metric**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of a hospital's efficiency and capacity. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, data suggests that GWVMC's ER wait times are generally within the regional average. Patients should be prepared for potential waits, especially during peak hours. It's always advisable to call ahead or check online resources for current wait times if possible.

**Specialty Services: A Comprehensive Offering**

GWVMC boasts a comprehensive array of specialty services. It features a robust cardiology program, offering advanced cardiac care, including interventional procedures. The hospital's oncology department provides comprehensive cancer treatment, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Furthermore, GWVMC has a strong focus on surgical services, with a wide range of surgical specialties available. The hospital also houses a dedicated women's health center and a comprehensive maternity program.

**Telehealth Integration: Expanding Access**

Geisinger Health System, of which GWVMC is a part, has made significant strides in telehealth integration. Telehealth services offer patients convenient access to medical care from the comfort of their homes. GWVMC offers telehealth consultations for various specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and certain specialist appointments. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues. The availability of telehealth services contributes positively to the overall health score.

**Smaller Options: Exploring Alternatives**

While GWVMC is the primary hospital, residents of the 18603 ZIP code have other healthcare options. These include smaller hospitals and specialized clinics in the surrounding areas. These facilities may offer more specialized care or shorter wait times for certain procedures.

**Commonwealth Health System: Another Major Player**

Another major player in the region is the Commonwealth Health System. This system includes several hospitals, including Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, which is located in Wilkes-Barre, PA. While not directly within the 18603 ZIP code, it's a readily accessible option for residents.

**Wilkes-Barre General Hospital: Evaluating Performance**

Wilkes-Barre General Hospital has a 2-star rating from CMS. This rating indicates areas where the hospital may need to improve in quality of care and patient safety. The hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, and various medical specialties.

**Emergency Room at Wilkes-Barre General**

Emergency room wait times at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital also fluctuate. Patients should be prepared for potential waits and consider checking online resources or calling ahead for current wait times.

**Specialty Services at Wilkes-Barre General**

Wilkes-Barre General Hospital offers a range of specialty services. These include cardiology, oncology, and surgical services. The hospital also has a labor and delivery unit.

**Telehealth at Wilkes-Barre General**

Commonwealth Health System has also incorporated telehealth services into its offerings. Patients can access telehealth consultations for various medical needs.

**Other Healthcare Providers: Expanding the Network**

Beyond the major hospitals, the 18603 area is served by a network of other healthcare providers. These include urgent care centers, outpatient clinics, and physician practices. These facilities provide a range of services, including primary care, specialized medical care, and diagnostic testing.

**Urgent Care Centers: Addressing Immediate Needs**

Urgent care centers offer a convenient option for treating non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. They often have shorter wait times than emergency rooms and are a good choice for conditions like colds, flu, minor injuries, and infections. Several urgent care centers are located within a reasonable distance of the 18603 ZIP code.

**Outpatient Clinics: Specialized Care Options**

Outpatient clinics provide specialized medical care and services. These clinics may focus on specific areas of medicine, such as cardiology, dermatology, or physical therapy. They offer a convenient alternative to hospital-based care for certain conditions.

**Physician Practices: Primary Care and Beyond**

A network of physician practices provides primary care services and specialized medical care. These practices offer a range of services, including routine checkups, vaccinations, and management of chronic conditions. Choosing a primary care physician is a crucial step in maintaining good health.

**Overall Health Score: A Composite Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for the 18603 ZIP code area is a composite of the factors discussed above. GWVMC, the flagship hospital, provides a solid foundation of care, with a 3-star CMS rating and a comprehensive range of services. The availability of telehealth services further enhances access to care. However, the presence of a hospital with a lower CMS rating in the immediate vicinity highlights the variability in quality.

**Factors Influencing the Score**

Several factors influence the overall health score. The availability of a major hospital with a wide range of services is a significant positive. The presence of a strong telehealth program is also a positive factor. However, the CMS ratings of the hospitals, particularly the lower rating of one of the major hospitals, detracts from the overall score. Emergency room wait times, while not consistently available, are an important consideration.

**Recommendations for Residents**

Residents of the 18603 ZIP code should consider the following when making healthcare decisions:

* **Choose a Primary Care Physician:** Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician is crucial for preventative care and overall health management.
* **Research Hospital Options:** Familiarize yourself with the services offered by the hospitals in the area and consider their CMS ratings.
* **Consider Telehealth:** Utilize telehealth services for convenient access to medical care, especially for routine appointments and follow-up care.
* **Be Prepared for ER Waits:** Be aware that emergency room wait times can vary and consider alternative options for non-life-threatening conditions, such as urgent care centers.
* **Stay Informed:** Regularly check online resources for updated information on hospital performance, wait times, and service availability.

**Conclusion: A Region with Options**

The healthcare landscape surrounding the 18603 ZIP code offers a range of options. While GWVMC serves as the primary hospital, residents have access to other hospitals, specialized clinics, and physician practices. The availability of telehealth services enhances access to care. Residents should carefully consider their individual healthcare needs and make informed decisions based on the factors discussed in this review. The overall health score is "Good," with areas for improvement in hospital quality and efficiency. Residents should proactively manage their health by choosing a primary care physician, staying informed, and utilizing available resources.