18834, New Milford, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18834, New Milford, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Wyalusing, PA (ZIP Code 18834)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. For residents near Wyalusing, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18834), understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. Due to the rural nature of the area, the options are limited, but this analysis offers a comprehensive overview to aid informed healthcare decisions.

**Defining the Scope:**

The primary focus of this review centers on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Wyalusing. Given the geographical context, this includes facilities in Bradford, Susquehanna, and potentially Luzerne counties, Pennsylvania, as well as nearby areas in New York State. The "Overall Health Score" is not a single, quantifiable number but rather a composite assessment based on available data and qualitative factors.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare website provides a valuable metric: the star rating. This system assesses hospitals based on various quality measures, ranging from patient experience to mortality rates.

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital (Sayre, PA):** This is the closest major hospital to Wyalusing and a significant regional healthcare provider. Robert Packer Hospital boasts a strong reputation and is a flagship facility within the Guthrie system. However, CMS star ratings are dynamic and can fluctuate. To get the most up-to-date information, it's crucial to consult the CMS Hospital Compare website directly.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center (Scranton, PA):** While further afield, Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton offers a wider array of specialized services. Geisinger is a well-regarded integrated health system, known for its innovative approach to healthcare. Again, checking the CMS Hospital Compare website for the latest star rating is essential.

**Other Hospitals to Consider:**

Smaller, community hospitals, such as those in Towanda or Montrose, PA, may offer more convenient access for certain residents. However, these facilities often have a more limited scope of services compared to the larger regional hospitals. Their CMS ratings, when available, should be considered in the overall assessment.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

ER wait times are a critical factor, particularly in emergencies. Unfortunately, publicly available, real-time ER wait time data can be inconsistent. However, several resources can provide estimates.

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital:** Information on ER wait times can sometimes be found on the Guthrie website or through third-party websites that aggregate hospital data.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center:** Geisinger's website may also offer wait time estimates.

**General Considerations:**

It's important to remember that wait times are dynamic and can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the cases being treated. Calling the hospital's ER directly is often the best way to get the most current information.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

The availability of specialized services is a key determinant of a hospital's overall quality.

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital:** This hospital typically offers a broad range of services, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and women's health. It often has specialized centers for specific conditions.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center:** Geisinger is known for its comprehensive specialty programs, including advanced cardiac care, cancer treatment, and neurological services.

**Other Facilities:**

Smaller hospitals may offer essential services like primary care, general surgery, and basic diagnostic imaging. However, for more complex medical needs, patients may need to travel to larger regional centers.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists can be limited.

**Guthrie and Geisinger:** Both Guthrie and Geisinger have invested significantly in telehealth infrastructure. They offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services. This can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and provide timely consultations.

**Other Considerations:**

It is important to check what telehealth services are available and covered by your insurance.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient experience is a crucial element of overall healthcare quality. The Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey provides valuable insights into patient satisfaction.

**Guthrie and Geisinger:** CMS Hospital Compare includes HCAHPS scores. These scores reflect patient experiences related to communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of hospital staff, pain management, and the hospital environment.

**Other Factors:**

Beyond CMS ratings and wait times, other factors contribute to the overall health score.

**Hospital Accreditation:** Accreditation from organizations like The Joint Commission or DNV GL Healthcare is an indicator of quality and safety.

**Physician Quality:** The quality of physicians is critical. Researching physician credentials, board certifications, and experience is recommended.

**Community Reputation:** Word-of-mouth recommendations from neighbors and friends can provide valuable insights into a hospital's reputation.

**Financial Considerations:**

The cost of healthcare is a significant concern.

**Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network.

**Billing Practices:** Understand the hospital's billing practices and inquire about potential out-of-pocket expenses.

**Accessibility and Convenience:**

Accessibility is a crucial factor, especially in a rural area.

**Location and Travel Time:** Consider the distance to the hospital and the ease of travel.

**Transportation Options:** For individuals without personal transportation, explore transportation options like public transit or volunteer driver programs.

**Overall Health Score Summary for Hospitals Near Wyalusing, PA (ZIP Code 18834):**

Given the available data and the geographical context, the "Overall Health Score" assessment for hospitals near Wyalusing is as follows:

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital (Sayre, PA):** This hospital is the primary healthcare provider for the area. Its CMS star rating (consult the CMS website for the most current information), specialty services, and telehealth capabilities make it a strong choice. ER wait times and patient experience should be considered.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center (Scranton, PA):** While further away, Geisinger offers a wider range of specialized services and a robust telehealth program. Its CMS star rating (consult the CMS website), reputation for innovation, and comprehensive specialty programs are significant strengths.

**Smaller Community Hospitals:** These facilities provide essential services and may be more convenient for some residents. Their CMS ratings, when available, and the scope of services should be carefully evaluated.

**Recommendations for Residents:**

1. **Consult the CMS Hospital Compare Website:** This is the most reliable source for up-to-date information on hospital ratings.
2. **Check Hospital Websites:** Review the websites of Guthrie and Geisinger for information on services, wait times, and telehealth options.
3. **Consider Your Specific Needs:** Evaluate your healthcare needs and choose the hospital that best meets those needs.
4. **Ask Questions:** Don't hesitate to ask your primary care physician, specialists, or the hospitals directly for information.
5. **Assess Patient Reviews:** Look at patient reviews and ratings, but take them with a grain of salt.
6. **Prioritize Your Health:** Make informed healthcare decisions to ensure you receive the best possible care.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near Wyalusing, PA, offers a spectrum of options. Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital serves as the primary regional provider, while Geisinger Community Medical Center provides access to more specialized services. Residents should carefully consider the factors outlined in this review, including CMS ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, telehealth capabilities, and patient experience, to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Regular review of this information, and the use of available online tools, will help to keep the assessment current.