18825, Jackson, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18825, Jackson, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 18825

This review provides an in-depth assessment of hospitals serving the area near ZIP code 18825, focusing on key metrics crucial for informed healthcare decisions. The analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, telehealth availability, and overall quality indicators.

**Defining the Scope:**

ZIP code 18825 primarily encompasses the town of Montrose, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas in Susquehanna County. Healthcare access in this region is influenced by its rural character, impacting travel distances and service availability. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius, considering those most likely to serve residents of 18825.

**Flagship Hospital Analysis:**

The dominant healthcare provider in the region is Geisinger, with several facilities within a commutable distance. Geisinger is a large, integrated health system, and its presence significantly shapes the healthcare landscape for 18825 residents.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center (Scranton, PA):** While not directly in 18825, Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC) in Scranton is a major referral center for the area. It’s a Level II Trauma Center, offering a wide array of services. GCMC currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects performance across various categories, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes-Barre, PA):** Another significant Geisinger facility, Wyoming Valley Medical Center, is also a major regional hospital. It boasts a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of overall quality compared to GCMC. This hospital offers comprehensive services, including specialized care units and advanced surgical capabilities.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Critical Indicator:**

The CMS star rating system provides a readily accessible overview of hospital performance. It's crucial to understand that these ratings are based on data collected from Medicare patients, but they often reflect the overall quality of care provided to all patients. A higher star rating generally suggests better outcomes and a more positive patient experience. However, it’s vital to remember that these ratings are just one data point and shouldn't be the sole factor in decision-making.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for many patients. The ability to quickly access emergency care can be life-saving. Data on ER wait times can vary, and it's essential to consult hospital websites or third-party sources like ProPublica’s Hospital Compare to get the most up-to-date information. Generally, both GCMC and Wyoming Valley Medical Center are likely to have wait times that fluctuate depending on the time of day and the severity of cases. Shorter wait times are generally preferable, but it's important to understand that the triage process prioritizes patients based on the severity of their condition.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Both Geisinger facilities offer a broad range of specialty services. Geisinger is known for its strong cardiology, cancer care, and neurosurgery programs. They also have dedicated women's health centers and pediatric services. The specific availability of specialists and the scope of services offered can vary between hospitals. For example, GCMC might have a more robust trauma program, while Wyoming Valley Medical Center may have a stronger focus on cardiac care.

**Cancer Care:**

Geisinger has a well-regarded cancer institute, offering comprehensive cancer care, including radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology. Patients near 18825 have access to these services through Geisinger facilities, including clinical trials and advanced treatment options.

**Cardiology:**

Cardiovascular health is another area where Geisinger excels. They provide a full spectrum of cardiac services, from preventative care to complex interventions like angioplasty and open-heart surgery. The availability of these services is crucial for managing heart conditions prevalent in the population.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Geisinger has invested heavily in telehealth, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other digital health services. This is especially beneficial for patients in 18825, reducing the need for travel to access specialized care. Telehealth can be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even some initial consultations.

**Patient Experience:**

Patient experience is a critical aspect of healthcare quality. CMS star ratings incorporate patient satisfaction scores, reflecting patient feedback on their hospital experience. Factors like communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and cleanliness of the hospital environment are considered. Reviews from patients can be found online.

**Other Hospitals to Consider:**

While Geisinger facilities are the primary providers, other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance might offer specific services or be preferred by some patients.

**Robert Packer Hospital (Sayre, PA):** Located in Sayre, Pennsylvania, Robert Packer Hospital is part of the Guthrie system. It is another significant hospital in the region. It has a 4-star CMS rating. Robert Packer Hospital is a regional referral center, offering a wide range of medical and surgical services.

**Other Considerations:**

* **Access to Primary Care:** The availability of primary care physicians is essential for preventive care and managing chronic conditions. Residents of 18825 should consider the availability of primary care providers in their local area, which can influence where they seek specialty care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage plays a significant role in healthcare access. Patients should verify that their insurance plan is accepted by the hospitals and specialists they choose.
* **Transportation:** Rural areas can present transportation challenges. Patients should consider the distance to hospitals and the availability of transportation options.
* **Hospital-Specific Data:** Hospital websites and third-party sources provide detailed information on specific services, physician directories, and quality metrics.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

For residents near 18825, Geisinger facilities, particularly Wyoming Valley Medical Center, offer a comprehensive range of services and are likely to be the primary healthcare providers. The 4-star CMS rating of Wyoming Valley Medical Center is a positive indicator of quality. However, Robert Packer Hospital also offers high-quality care. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage when choosing a hospital. The availability of telehealth services is a significant advantage for residents in this rural area. ER wait times should be considered, and patients should investigate the specific wait times at each hospital. The overall health score for the area is positive, with access to quality healthcare providers, but travel distances and rural limitations should be considered. Continued monitoring of hospital performance and patient feedback is crucial for ensuring the best possible healthcare outcomes.