18630, Meshoppen, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18630, Meshoppen, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Mountain Top, PA (ZIP Code 18630)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Mountain Top, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18630), access to quality medical care is a critical consideration. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the hospitals closest to this area, considering factors such as Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. This analysis aims to offer a clear picture of the available healthcare options, empowering informed decision-making for residents.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Key Players**

The immediate vicinity of Mountain Top is not densely populated with hospitals. Residents typically look towards Wilkes-Barre and Scranton for comprehensive medical services. These cities offer a broader range of specialists and facilities. The primary hospitals serving the region are examined in detail below.

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

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (GWVMC) in Wilkes-Barre is a major player in the region. It is a large, multi-specialty hospital and a significant part of the Geisinger Health System. GWVMC is known for its comprehensive services, including a Level II Trauma Center, a comprehensive stroke center, and a robust cardiology program.

**CMS Star Rating:** GWVMC currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it’s important to consider that ratings are snapshots in time and can fluctuate.

**Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times are a crucial factor for many patients. Data on ER wait times is publicly available and updated regularly. It's advisable to consult websites like ProPublica's Hospital Compare or the hospital's own website for the most current information. Wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** GWVMC boasts a wide array of specialty centers. These include a dedicated cancer institute, a heart and vascular institute, and specialized units for women's health and orthopedics. They offer advanced surgical procedures, including minimally invasive techniques. The hospital also has a strong focus on rehabilitation services.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Geisinger Health System has invested heavily in telehealth. GWVMC offers telehealth consultations for various specialties, allowing patients to access care remotely. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and behavioral health services. Telehealth can improve access to care for residents in rural areas like Mountain Top, reducing the need for travel.

**Community Memorial Hospital (Dallas, PA)**

Community Memorial Hospital, located closer to Mountain Top, is a smaller, community-focused hospital. It offers a range of services, including primary care, urgent care, and some specialized outpatient services. While it does not have the same breadth of services as GWVMC, it provides convenient access for certain medical needs.

**CMS Star Rating:** Community Memorial Hospital's CMS star rating should be checked on the CMS website. These ratings are updated regularly.

**Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times at Community Memorial Hospital are generally shorter than at larger hospitals like GWVMC, due to lower patient volumes. However, it's always wise to check the most recent data.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Community Memorial Hospital focuses on core services, including primary care, internal medicine, and some surgical procedures. It offers a convenient option for residents needing routine care and less complex medical interventions.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Community Memorial Hospital likely offers some telehealth services, although the scope may be more limited compared to larger health systems. It is important to check with the hospital directly for details on their telehealth offerings.

**Regional Hospital (Scranton, PA)**

While located further from Mountain Top, Regional Hospital in Scranton is a significant healthcare provider in the area, particularly for specialized care.

**CMS Star Rating:** Check the CMS website for the current star rating of Regional Hospital.

**Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times are variable and depend on the time and day. Check the hospital's website or other public resources for the most recent data.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Regional Hospital has a range of specialty centers, including cardiology, neurology, and oncology. It is a regional referral center for complex medical conditions.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Regional Hospital likely offers telehealth services, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists.

**Other Considerations: Access and Transportation**

Beyond the hospitals themselves, access to care involves practical considerations. Transportation options are important for residents of Mountain Top. Public transportation may be limited. Driving times to hospitals in Wilkes-Barre and Scranton should be factored into the decision-making process.

**Evaluating the "Overall Health Score"**

An "Overall Health Score" is a complex assessment that considers many factors. It's impossible to assign a single numerical score, as individual needs vary. However, the following points should be considered:

* **Proximity and Convenience:** Community Memorial Hospital offers the closest access.
* **Comprehensive Services:** Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center provides the widest range of services, including specialized care.
* **Specialized Care:** Regional Hospital is a regional referral center for specialized services.
* **CMS Ratings:** CMS star ratings provide a general indicator of quality, but they should be considered alongside other factors.
* **ER Wait Times:** Check the most recent data for ER wait times at each hospital.
* **Telehealth:** Consider the availability of telehealth services for your specific needs.
* **Personal Needs:** The best hospital is the one that best meets your individual needs and preferences.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital is within your insurance network.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

For residents of Mountain Top, PA (ZIP Code 18630), the healthcare landscape offers a range of options. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center provides the most comprehensive services, while Community Memorial Hospital offers closer, more convenient access for less complex medical needs. Regional Hospital in Scranton provides access to specialized care. Evaluating these factors, along with individual needs, insurance coverage, and transportation options, will allow residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare. Regularly checking CMS ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth offerings ensures the most up-to-date information.