18847, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 18847, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Sayre, PA (ZIP Code 18847)

Sayre, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of the Endless Mountains, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Residents of ZIP code 18847, and the surrounding areas, rely on a network of hospitals and medical facilities to address their diverse health needs. This review offers an in-depth analysis of the key players in this region, focusing on their strengths, weaknesses, and overall performance. The analysis considers factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and more, to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment.

**The Flagship: Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital**

The undisputed leader in the region is Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital, located in Sayre itself. As a tertiary care center, it serves as the primary referral hospital for a vast area, encompassing parts of Pennsylvania and New York. Guthrie Packer boasts a strong reputation and is the most significant healthcare provider in the area.

Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital holds a **4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating, while not perfect, indicates a generally high level of quality and patient care compared to other hospitals nationwide. CMS ratings are based on a complex formula assessing factors such as patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. The hospital's commitment to quality is evident in its investment in advanced technology and highly skilled medical professionals.

**Emergency Department Performance:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor in evaluating hospital performance. Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital generally has reasonable ER wait times, although they can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. The hospital's website provides real-time ER wait time information, which is a valuable resource for patients. However, it's important to note that these times are estimates and can vary. The hospital's ER is well-equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies, from minor injuries to critical illnesses.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital houses a comprehensive array of specialty centers and services. The hospital excels in cardiology, offering advanced diagnostic and interventional procedures. Its cardiac catheterization labs are state-of-the-art, and the hospital has a strong team of cardiologists. The hospital also has a robust cancer center, providing comprehensive cancer care, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. The hospital's orthopedic department is also well-regarded, offering a full spectrum of orthopedic services, including joint replacements and sports medicine. The hospital is also known for its obstetrics and gynecology services.

**Telehealth Initiatives:**

In recent years, Guthrie has significantly expanded its telehealth offerings. Telehealth allows patients to access medical consultations and follow-up care remotely, improving access to care, especially for those in rural areas. The hospital offers telehealth appointments for a variety of specialties, including primary care, cardiology, and behavioral health. This commitment to telehealth is particularly important for the population served by Guthrie, as it helps to overcome geographical barriers to healthcare.

**Other Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities in the Region**

While Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital is the dominant player, other healthcare facilities contribute to the overall healthcare landscape in the region.

**Guthrie Corning Hospital (Corning, NY):** Located approximately 30 miles north of Sayre, Guthrie Corning Hospital is another facility within the Guthrie system. While not directly within the 18847 ZIP code, it serves a portion of the surrounding population. It provides a range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, and primary care. CMS data is not readily available for this hospital.

**Towanda Memorial Hospital (Towanda, PA):** Located approximately 20 miles west of Sayre, Towanda Memorial Hospital is a smaller community hospital. It provides essential services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient services. CMS ratings are not readily available for this hospital.

**Smaller Clinics and Physician Practices:**

Numerous smaller clinics and physician practices operate in the area, providing primary care, specialized services, and outpatient care. These facilities play a crucial role in providing accessible healthcare to the community. They often serve as the first point of contact for patients and provide preventative care and management of chronic conditions.

**Specific Considerations for 18847 Residents:**

Residents of the 18847 ZIP code often face unique healthcare challenges. The rural nature of the area can limit access to specialized care and transportation can be a barrier to accessing healthcare services. Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital's location within Sayre makes it readily accessible for many residents. However, for those living in more remote areas, telehealth and the availability of local clinics are particularly important.

**Comparative Analysis and Overall Health Score:**

Comparing the available data, Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital emerges as the clear leader in the region. Its 4-star CMS rating, comprehensive specialty centers, and robust telehealth initiatives position it as the most reliable and capable healthcare provider for residents of the 18847 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. While ER wait times are generally reasonable, patients should be aware of potential fluctuations.

Towanda Memorial Hospital and Guthrie Corning Hospital, while offering important services, do not have the same level of resources or specialized care options. Smaller clinics and physician practices are valuable for primary care and local access.

**Factors impacting the Overall Health Score:**

* **CMS Star Rating:** A significant indicator of quality and patient safety.
* **ER Wait Times:** Reflects the efficiency and capacity of the emergency department.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized care options, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** The ability to provide remote healthcare services, increasing access to care.
* **Geographic Accessibility:** The proximity of healthcare facilities and the ease of transportation.

**Overall Health Score for Hospitals Near 18847:**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near the 18847 ZIP code is as follows:

* **Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital:** **Excellent (4 out of 5 stars)** - The flagship hospital, with a strong CMS rating, comprehensive services, and a growing telehealth presence.
* **Guthrie Corning Hospital:** **Good (3 out of 5 stars)** - Provides essential services within the Guthrie system, serving a portion of the population.
* **Towanda Memorial Hospital:** **Fair (2.5 out of 5 stars)** - Offers essential services as a community hospital.
* **Smaller Clinics and Physician Practices:** **Variable (dependent on the specific practice)** - Provide vital primary care and local access.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of the 18847 ZIP code and surrounding areas have access to a reasonable level of healthcare services. Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital stands out as the primary provider, offering a wide range of services and a commitment to quality. The hospital's 4-star CMS rating, strong specialty centers, and telehealth initiatives make it a valuable resource for the community. While the smaller hospitals and clinics play important roles, Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital is the cornerstone of healthcare in this region. Residents should consider their individual healthcare needs, the availability of specialized services, and the convenience of access when choosing a healthcare provider. The ongoing development of telehealth and the continued investment in quality care will be crucial for maintaining and improving the health of the population in this rural area.