18830, Little Meadows, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18830, Little Meadows, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Montrose, PA (ZIP Code 18830)

Navigating healthcare choices can be daunting. For residents near Montrose, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18830), access to quality medical care is a critical consideration. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the hospitals within a reasonable radius, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty offerings, and telehealth capabilities. This analysis aims to offer a clear, fact-based perspective to aid informed decision-making.

**Methodology:** This assessment considers hospitals within a roughly 30-mile radius of Montrose, PA. Data sources include the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, publicly available databases, and reputable healthcare review platforms. The "Overall Health Score" is not a single, quantifiable number but rather a synthesis of various factors, providing a comprehensive understanding of each hospital's strengths and weaknesses.

**The Flagship: Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, PA**

Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital, located in Sayre, PA, stands out as the most prominent hospital in the region. It's a flagship facility within the Guthrie Health system, serving as a regional referral center. As of the latest CMS data, Robert Packer Hospital holds a **3-star rating**. While not the highest possible score, it reflects a generally acceptable level of performance across various quality measures.

Robert Packer Hospital boasts a wide range of specialty services. It's known for its robust cardiac care program, including advanced procedures like angioplasty and open-heart surgery. The hospital also houses a comprehensive cancer center, offering radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology services. Furthermore, Robert Packer has a strong focus on women's health, with a dedicated obstetrics and gynecology department.

**ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for many patients. Publicly available data indicates that ER wait times at Robert Packer Hospital can vary. It's advisable to check real-time wait times through the Guthrie Health website or other online resources before heading to the ER.

**Telehealth:** Guthrie Health has invested in telehealth services, providing patients with remote access to healthcare professionals. Telehealth offerings include virtual visits for primary care, specialist consultations, and follow-up appointments. This is particularly beneficial for residents in rural areas, reducing the need for travel.

**Other Considerations for Robert Packer:** The hospital's size and scope mean it handles a high volume of patients, which can sometimes impact wait times and the overall patient experience. However, its comprehensive services and advanced technology make it a valuable resource for the region.

**Regional Alternatives: Exploring Other Options**

While Robert Packer Hospital is the primary hub, several other hospitals offer healthcare options near Montrose. These facilities may be better suited for specific needs or offer different levels of convenience.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Wilkes-Barre, PA:** Located approximately an hour's drive from Montrose, Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center is another major healthcare provider. It is part of the Geisinger Health System, known for its integrated approach to healthcare. The hospital is rated **4-stars** by CMS. This higher rating suggests a stronger performance in several key areas.

Geisinger Wyoming Valley has a broad range of specialties, including cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics. It also has a dedicated trauma center, providing specialized care for patients with severe injuries. The hospital is known for its advanced technology and research initiatives.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Geisinger Wyoming Valley can fluctuate. It's essential to check current wait times online or by phone before going to the emergency room.

**Telehealth:** Geisinger Health System is a leader in telehealth, offering extensive virtual care options. Patients can access virtual primary care, specialist consultations, and chronic disease management programs. This is particularly useful for those seeking convenient access to medical advice and follow-up care.

**Tyler Memorial Hospital, Tunkhannock, PA:** Closer to Montrose, Tyler Memorial Hospital is a smaller community hospital. It provides essential services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient services. As a smaller facility, it may not have the same breadth of specialty services as larger hospitals. CMS does not currently provide a star rating for this facility.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Tyler Memorial Hospital are generally shorter than at larger hospitals.

**Telehealth:** Tyler Memorial Hospital is likely to offer some telehealth services, potentially including virtual consultations with specialists or remote monitoring programs.

**Additional Considerations for Hospitals near Montrose:**

**Community Memorial Hospital, Canton, PA:** Located further afield, Community Memorial Hospital in Canton offers basic services and is an option for some residents. CMS does not currently provide a star rating for this facility.

**The Importance of Specialty Centers:** When assessing hospitals, the availability of specialized care is crucial. For instance, individuals with cardiac issues should look for hospitals with accredited cardiac centers. Similarly, those needing cancer treatment should seek hospitals with comprehensive cancer centers.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor:** Emergency room wait times are a significant indicator of a hospital's efficiency and ability to handle patient volume. Shorter wait times generally translate to faster access to care, which is vital in emergency situations.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access:** Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas. They provide convenient access to healthcare professionals, reducing the need for travel and improving patient outcomes.

**Patient Reviews and Experiences:** While not included in the primary data, patient reviews and experiences can offer valuable insights into a hospital's culture, staff interactions, and overall quality of care. Review platforms like Healthgrades and Google Reviews can provide this information.

**Overall Health Score Summary for Hospitals near Montrose, PA:**

The healthcare landscape near Montrose, PA, offers a range of options, each with its strengths and weaknesses.

* **Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital:** A regional referral center with a 3-star rating, offering comprehensive services, including cardiac care and a cancer center. Consider checking ER wait times and leveraging telehealth options.
* **Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center:** A 4-star rated hospital with a broad range of specialties and a strong telehealth program.
* **Tyler Memorial Hospital:** A smaller community hospital, offering essential services.
* **Community Memorial Hospital:** A basic service provider in Canton.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize Your Needs:** Consider your specific healthcare needs when choosing a hospital. If you require specialized care, research hospitals with accredited programs in those areas.
* **Check ER Wait Times:** Before heading to the ER, check real-time wait times online or by phone.
* **Explore Telehealth Options:** Take advantage of telehealth services for convenient access to care.
* **Read Patient Reviews:** Consult patient reviews to gain insights into a hospital's culture and patient experience.
* **Proximity Matters:** Consider the distance to each hospital and the ease of access, particularly in emergency situations.

By carefully evaluating these factors, residents near Montrose, PA, can make informed decisions about their healthcare and choose the hospitals that best meet their needs. The "Overall Health Score" is not a single number but a framework for understanding the multifaceted nature of healthcare options in the region.