18817, East Smithfield, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18817, East Smithfield, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Montrose, PA (ZIP Code 18817)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can feel daunting, especially when facing a health crisis. For residents near Montrose, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18817), access to quality medical care is a critical concern. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the hospitals within a reasonable radius, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, and telehealth availability. This information aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The immediate vicinity of Montrose is largely rural, which impacts the availability and scope of healthcare facilities. Residents often rely on hospitals in neighboring counties or even states, necessitating travel. This review will prioritize facilities that are realistically accessible for residents of the 18817 ZIP code, considering driving distances and typical patient referral patterns.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a readily accessible indicator of overall quality. While not the sole determinant of a hospital's worth, the CMS star rating is a valuable starting point.

**Geisinger Health System:** Geisinger is a dominant healthcare provider in Northeastern Pennsylvania. While the nearest major Geisinger facility might require a drive, its influence on the region's healthcare ecosystem is undeniable. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre, PA, is a significant regional hospital. As of the most recent data, it holds a [Insert Current CMS Star Rating Here – *This information changes frequently and must be updated*]. This rating reflects a composite score based on various metrics, including patient experience, safety, and efficiency. Geisinger's commitment to innovation and research is also noteworthy. They have a robust telehealth program.

**Other Hospitals to Consider:**

* **Robert Packer Hospital (Sayre, PA):** Located in nearby Sayre, PA, Robert Packer Hospital is part of the Guthrie healthcare system. Robert Packer Hospital is a significant regional medical center. [Insert Current CMS Star Rating Here – *This information changes frequently and must be updated*]. Guthrie is a well-regarded system, and Robert Packer offers a broad range of services.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Metric:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor when assessing a hospital's ability to respond to urgent medical needs. While specific wait times can fluctuate, trends are important. Data on wait times is often publicly available through hospital websites or third-party platforms.

* **Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center:** [Insert Recent ER Wait Time Data Here – *This information changes frequently and must be updated*. Include average wait times and how they compare to regional or national averages].
* **Robert Packer Hospital:** [Insert Recent ER Wait Time Data Here – *This information changes frequently and must be updated*. Include average wait times and how they compare to regional or national averages].

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

The availability of specialized medical services is a key consideration for overall health. Access to specialists in areas like cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and women's health is vital for comprehensive care.

* **Geisinger:** Geisinger hospitals typically boast a wide array of specialty centers. They have a strong reputation for cardiology, cancer care, and transplant services. Their research initiatives often translate into cutting-edge treatments.
* **Robert Packer Hospital:** Robert Packer is a regional referral center. They offer specialized services, including cardiology, cancer care, and a range of surgical specialties.

**Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. It expands access to care, reduces travel burdens, and can improve patient outcomes.

* **Geisinger:** Geisinger has invested heavily in telehealth. They offer virtual visits, remote patient monitoring programs, and specialist consultations via telehealth. This is particularly beneficial for residents in the 18817 area, who may face long travel times.
* **Robert Packer Hospital:** [Insert information on Robert Packer's telehealth offerings here – *This information changes frequently and must be updated*. Include the types of telehealth services offered and their accessibility].

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient experience is a critical aspect of overall health. This includes factors like communication with healthcare providers, the cleanliness of facilities, and the overall feeling of care and support. CMS star ratings incorporate patient experience data, and platforms like Healthgrades and US News & World Report provide patient reviews.

* **Geisinger:** Geisinger typically scores well in patient satisfaction surveys, reflecting its focus on patient-centered care. [Insert specific data on patient satisfaction from recent surveys – *This information changes frequently and must be updated*].
* **Robert Packer Hospital:** [Insert specific data on patient satisfaction from recent surveys – *This information changes frequently and must be updated*].

**Access to Care and Insurance Considerations:**

Access to care also involves insurance coverage. The acceptance of various insurance plans and the availability of financial assistance programs are essential.

* **Geisinger:** Geisinger generally accepts a wide range of insurance plans. They also offer financial assistance programs to help patients manage healthcare costs.
* **Robert Packer Hospital:** [Insert information on insurance acceptance and financial assistance programs – *This information changes frequently and must be updated*].

**Community Health Needs Assessments:**

Hospitals often conduct community health needs assessments (CHNAs) to identify the most pressing health issues in their service areas. These assessments inform the development of programs and services to address those needs. Reviewing CHNAs can provide insights into the specific health challenges faced by residents in the 18817 area.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" is a subjective assessment based on the available data. It is not a single number but a composite of various factors.

**Factors that contribute to a higher score:**

* High CMS Star Rating
* Shorter ER wait times
* Comprehensive specialty services
* Robust telehealth offerings
* Positive patient satisfaction scores
* Acceptance of a wide range of insurance plans
* Commitment to community health initiatives

**Factors that may lower the score:**

* Lower CMS Star Rating
* Longer ER wait times
* Limited specialty services
* Lack of telehealth options
* Negative patient satisfaction scores
* Limited insurance acceptance
* Lack of community health initiatives

**Caveats and Limitations:**

This review is based on publicly available data and information that is subject to change. It is essential to verify the most current information directly with the hospitals. Individual healthcare needs vary, and this review does not substitute for professional medical advice.

**Final Assessment and Recommendations:**

Based on the available information, Geisinger and Robert Packer Hospital are the primary healthcare providers for residents near Montrose, PA (18817). [Provide a brief summary of the findings and a general recommendation, taking into account the fluctuating data. For example: "Geisinger, with its robust telehealth program and focus on innovation, may be particularly appealing for those seeking specialized care. Robert Packer Hospital, with its regional referral status, also provides a valuable service to the community. Residents should research the specific services offered by each hospital to best match their needs. It is always recommended to consult with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations."].

**Disclaimer:** *This review is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.*