18622, Huntington Mills, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18622, Huntington Mills, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Dallas, PA (ZIP Code 18622)

Navigating healthcare can feel like traversing a complex maze. This review aims to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for hospitals serving the Dallas, PA (18622) area, offering a fact-rich assessment to aid informed decision-making. We'll delve into key metrics, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, painting a clear picture of each facility's strengths and weaknesses.

**Methodology:** This review considers publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and independent organizations. The "Overall Health Score" is a subjective assessment based on a weighted average of these factors, reflecting the quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of care offered.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes-Barre, PA):**

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (GWVMC) in Wilkes-Barre, PA, is a major player in the region, serving as a flagship hospital for the Geisinger Health System. As of the latest CMS data, GWVMC holds a respectable **3-star rating**. This rating, while not the highest, indicates an average performance across various quality measures.

GWVMC boasts a busy Emergency Department. While precise ER wait times fluctuate, they often hover around the regional average, which can be a concern during peak hours. Prospective patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially for non-life-threatening conditions.

Geisinger is known for its strong emphasis on specialty care. GWVMC houses comprehensive cardiac services, including interventional cardiology and open-heart surgery. Its cancer institute provides a multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment, including radiation oncology and medical oncology. The hospital also features specialized centers for women's health, orthopedics, and neurology.

Telehealth is a growing area for Geisinger. They offer a variety of virtual care options, including primary care appointments, specialist consultations, and remote patient monitoring. While specific telehealth usage statistics for GWVMC are not readily available, Geisinger's system-wide commitment to telehealth suggests a robust offering. This is a significant advantage for patients seeking convenient access to care.

**Overall Health Score for Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center:** A solid, reliable option with a strong emphasis on specialty care and a growing telehealth presence. The 3-star CMS rating and potential ER wait times are areas to consider.

**Commonwealth Health – Wilkes-Barre General Hospital (Wilkes-Barre, PA):**

Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, part of the Commonwealth Health system, presents another option for residents of the 18622 ZIP code. The hospital's CMS star rating is currently unavailable, making a direct comparison based on this metric challenging. However, the absence of a rating doesn't necessarily indicate poor performance; it could be due to data reporting limitations.

ER wait times at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital are a crucial factor. The hospital's website and publicly available data sources should be consulted for the most up-to-date information, as these times can vary significantly.

Wilkes-Barre General offers a range of specialty services. They have a dedicated cardiology program, providing diagnostic and interventional procedures. The hospital also features a comprehensive stroke center, equipped to handle acute stroke cases. Other key services include orthopedics, general surgery, and a labor and delivery unit.

Telehealth capabilities are becoming increasingly important. Patients should inquire directly with Wilkes-Barre General about their telehealth offerings. This can include virtual consultations with specialists, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring programs.

**Overall Health Score for Wilkes-Barre General Hospital:** The absence of a CMS star rating makes it harder to assess overall quality. However, its specialty services, particularly in cardiology and stroke care, offer valuable options. Patients should proactively seek information about ER wait times and telehealth services.

**Other Considerations and Regional Healthcare Landscape:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, the 18622 ZIP code benefits from a network of smaller hospitals, urgent care centers, and physician practices. These facilities play a vital role in providing accessible and convenient healthcare services.

**Regional Healthcare System:** The proximity to larger healthcare systems, such as those in Scranton and surrounding areas, expands the range of care options available to residents. This includes access to specialized services and advanced technologies.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor:** ER wait times are a significant concern for many patients. It's essential to check current wait times before heading to the ER, especially for non-life-threatening conditions. Hospitals often display wait times on their websites or through mobile apps.

**Specialty Centers: A Key Differentiator:** The availability of specialized centers, such as cardiac centers, cancer institutes, and stroke centers, is a major factor in determining the quality of care. These centers often have dedicated teams of specialists and advanced technologies.

**Telehealth: The Future of Healthcare:** Telehealth is transforming healthcare delivery, offering patients greater convenience and access to care. Hospitals that embrace telehealth are better positioned to meet the evolving needs of their patients.

**Access to Primary Care:** The availability of primary care physicians is crucial for preventive care and managing chronic conditions. Residents should establish a relationship with a primary care provider to ensure ongoing healthcare needs are met.

**Patient Satisfaction and Reviews:** Patient reviews and satisfaction scores provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals offer patient reviews, which can help prospective patients make informed decisions.

**Financial Considerations:** Healthcare costs can vary significantly between hospitals. Patients should inquire about the cost of services and understand their insurance coverage before receiving care.

**Specific Recommendations for 18622 Residents:**

* **Assess Your Needs:** Determine your healthcare needs and prioritize hospitals that offer the relevant specialties.
* **Check ER Wait Times:** Before visiting the ER, check current wait times on hospital websites or apps.
* **Explore Telehealth Options:** Consider telehealth for routine appointments and follow-up care.
* **Research Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews to gain insights into the patient experience.
* **Inquire About Costs:** Understand the cost of services and your insurance coverage.
* **Establish Primary Care:** Find a primary care physician for preventive care and ongoing health management.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near the 18622 ZIP code offers a range of options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, with its 3-star rating and strong specialty services, provides a solid choice. Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, while lacking a CMS rating, offers valuable specialty services. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and access the best possible care. The "Overall Health Score" is a guide, not a definitive judgment, and individual needs and preferences should always be the primary driver of healthcare choices. The dynamic nature of healthcare requires constant vigilance, and staying informed about changes in hospital ratings, services, and technologies is essential for maintaining optimal health.