18843, South Montrose, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18843, South Montrose, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Towanda, PA (ZIP Code 18843)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the Towanda, PA area (ZIP Code 18843), focusing on key metrics to help residents make informed decisions about their care. We'll delve into hospital ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, and telehealth availability, painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare options available.

**The Landscape: Primary Players and Proximity**

The primary healthcare providers for residents of Towanda and surrounding areas are Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, PA, and UPMC Williamsport, located further afield. While other smaller facilities and clinics exist, these two hospitals represent the major players for acute care and comprehensive medical services. Proximity is a crucial factor, especially in emergencies. Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital is the closest major facility, making it the primary choice for residents in the immediate vicinity. UPMC Williamsport, while further, offers a broader range of specialized services, potentially requiring a longer travel time.

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital: A Closer Look**

Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital, located in Sayre, PA, serves as the primary hospital for residents of the 18843 ZIP code. This facility holds a significant position in the region's healthcare ecosystem. Unfortunately, Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital does not currently have a CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating available. This absence makes it difficult to compare the hospital's performance against national standards. However, the hospital's reputation within the community is generally positive, and its proximity is a significant advantage for residents needing immediate medical attention.

**Emergency Room Performance at Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for assessing a hospital's responsiveness. While specific, real-time ER wait time data fluctuates, publicly available data provides some insights. Based on available data, Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital's ER wait times tend to be in line with, or slightly better than, the national average. This suggests a relatively efficient ER system, crucial for timely care. However, it's important to remember that wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition. Always call ahead if possible.

**Specialty Services at Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital**

Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital offers a broad range of specialty services. These include cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and a comprehensive women's health center. The hospital has a strong reputation for its cardiology services, with a dedicated heart and vascular institute. Its cancer center provides advanced treatments and support services. Orthopedic care is also a key focus, with experienced surgeons and rehabilitation programs. The women's health center provides a full spectrum of services, from obstetrics and gynecology to specialized care for women's health issues.

**Telehealth Integration at Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital has embraced telehealth, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments across several specialties. This is a significant advantage for patients who may have difficulty traveling to the hospital for routine appointments. Telehealth services improve access to care and reduce the burden of travel. The hospital's telehealth platform offers video conferencing, secure messaging, and remote patient monitoring capabilities.

**UPMC Williamsport: Expanding the Options**

UPMC Williamsport, located approximately an hour's drive from Towanda, offers a wider array of specialized services than Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital. This hospital is a flagship facility within the UPMC system. UPMC Williamsport has a CMS star rating of 3 stars, which is a middling rating. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality metrics, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

**Emergency Room Performance at UPMC Williamsport**

UPMC Williamsport's ER wait times are generally in line with or slightly above the national average. Again, real-time data is variable, but publicly available sources indicate that wait times can be longer than those at Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital, especially during peak hours. Patients should be prepared for potential delays and consider calling ahead to inquire about current wait times.

**Specialty Services at UPMC Williamsport**

UPMC Williamsport boasts a comprehensive range of specialty services, including advanced cardiac care, neurosurgery, and a Level II Trauma Center. Its heart and vascular institute offers cutting-edge treatments for cardiovascular diseases. The neurosurgery department provides specialized care for neurological conditions. The Level II Trauma Center is equipped to handle severe injuries and trauma cases, providing critical care for patients in need. UPMC Williamsport also has specialized centers for cancer treatment, women's health, and behavioral health.

**Telehealth Integration at UPMC Williamsport**

UPMC Williamsport has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas who may face travel barriers. UPMC's telehealth platform allows patients to connect with providers via video conferencing, access their medical records, and manage their care remotely. The hospital also offers telehealth services for behavioral health and mental health support.

**Other Considerations: Ancillary Services and Community Health**

Beyond the core hospital services, consider the availability of ancillary services. These include outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and home healthcare options. The presence of these services can significantly impact the overall healthcare experience. Both Guthrie and UPMC have networks of affiliated clinics and outpatient facilities in the region.

Community health initiatives are also important. Look for hospitals that actively participate in community outreach programs, health education, and preventative care initiatives. These programs can contribute to improved health outcomes and a healthier community overall.

**Overall Health Score Assessment: A Summary**

For residents of the 18843 ZIP code, the "Overall Health Score" assessment reveals a healthcare landscape with both strengths and weaknesses.

* **Proximity and Accessibility:** Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital offers the advantage of proximity, making it the most accessible option for immediate medical needs. Its ER wait times are generally favorable.
* **Specialty Depth:** UPMC Williamsport provides a broader range of specialized services, including advanced cardiac care, neurosurgery, and a Level II Trauma Center. However, it requires a longer travel time.
* **Telehealth Integration:** Both hospitals have embraced telehealth, improving access to care, particularly for those in rural areas.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** UPMC Williamsport has a 3-star CMS rating. Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital does not have a rating.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times vary, with Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital generally having shorter wait times.

**Making Informed Decisions:**

Ultimately, the "best" hospital depends on individual needs and circumstances. For emergencies and general care, Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital's proximity is a significant advantage. For specialized care, UPMC Williamsport offers a broader range of options, even if it means a longer drive. Residents should consider their specific medical needs, insurance coverage, and personal preferences when making healthcare decisions. Researching individual physicians and specialists, checking patient reviews, and discussing options with a primary care physician are all crucial steps in making informed choices. Remember to always confirm insurance coverage and network participation before seeking care. This review provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape near Towanda, PA, empowering residents to navigate the system effectively and prioritize their health.