First-Class Healthcare in NEPA
Award-winning healthcare for the body and mind is available right here in NEPA. Residents benefit from affordable, high-quality care delivered through nationally recognized hospital systems, specialty providers, and one of the region’s own fully accredited medical schools. With a strong focus on accessibility and innovation, Northeastern Pennsylvania makes it possible to live well without leaving the community. From emergency care and advanced surgery to wellness programs and medical education, NEPA offers comprehensive healthcare that supports every stage of life.
Leading hospital networks serving NEPA include:
Together, these providers form a strong foundation of local healthcare, offering everything from emergency medicine and surgery to specialized care and rehabilitation.
Innovation & Care at Geisinger
Founded in 1915 as a community hospital, Geisinger has grown into a nationally recognized nonprofit health system known for innovation and leadership. Today, Geisinger employs more than 26,000 caregivers, educators, and researchers across 10 hospital campuses and 116 primary care and specialty clinics. The system also includes more than 1,700 physicians delivering care throughout the region.
Geisinger’s impact extends beyond healthcare delivery. The Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine enrolls over 600 students and trains the next generation of physicians in a patient-centered, community-based model of education. With a commitment to discovery, inclusion, and innovation, Geisinger continues to shape the future of healthcare in NEPA and beyond.
Train for Healthcare Careers in NEPA
Northeastern Pennsylvania’s colleges and universities provide a wide range of healthcare programs, from nursing and pharmacy to therapy and medical technology. These institutions combine academic excellence with hands-on clinical training, preparing students to step directly into careers that strengthen NEPA’s growing healthcare workforce. Students looking to pursue careers in medicine, nursing, or allied health will find a range of options across NEPA’s colleges and universities.
Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
At Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, their mission is to educate aspiring physicians and scientists to serve society. Their model of education is community-based, evidence-based and patient-centered. They are committed to fostering inclusion, promoting discovery and using innovative techniques to train the next generation of doctors and caregivers.
Jersey College in Scranton offers hands-on nursing education with simulation labs and flexible scheduling. Students can pursue an LPN to RN bridge track or a generic RN pathway designed to prepare them for the NCLEX exam and nursing careers in local hospitals and clinics.
Programs:
- LPN to RN Bridge
- Generic RN
Johnson College in Scranton provides focused healthcare training with small class sizes and hands-on instruction. Its Medical Assistant program prepares graduates for direct patient care and administrative roles in doctors’ offices, clinics, and hospitals throughout NEPA.
Programs:
- Medical Assistant
King’s College in Wilkes-Barre delivers strong healthcare education through accredited nursing, physician assistant, and athletic training programs. Students gain valuable experience through clinical rotations and partnerships with healthcare providers across Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Programs:
- Nursing
- Physician Assistant
- Athletic Training
- Exercise Science
Lackawanna College in Scranton equips students with technical skills for healthcare careers in emergency services, therapy assistance, sonography, and surgical technology. Programs emphasize hands-on training to prepare students for immediate employment in hospitals and clinics.
Programs:
- Emergency Medical Services
- Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Physical Therapy Assistant
- Sonography
- Surgical Technology
Luzerne County Community College in Nanticoke offers diverse allied health programs combining classroom study with clinical placements. Graduates are prepared to serve as nurses, respiratory therapists, dental assistants, and surgical technologists in NEPA’s medical settings.
Programs:
- Nursing
- Dental Assistant
- Respiratory Therapy
- Surgical Technology
Marywood University in Scranton provides healthcare education with a focus on both clinical practice and community wellness. Programs include nursing, speech-language pathology, psychology, and nutrition, blending academic rigor with practical training.
Programs:
- Nursing
- Clinical Psychology
- Nutrition & Dietetics
- Speech-Language Pathology
Misericordia University in Dallas is known for its strong healthcare programs in nursing, therapy, and diagnostic imaging. Students gain clinical experience in state-of-the-art facilities and through partnerships with regional hospitals.
Programs:
- Nursing
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Speech-Language Pathology
Penn State’s NEPA campuses — located in Hazleton, Scranton, Schuylkill, and Wilkes-Barre — offer healthcare degrees in nursing, psychology, and rehabilitation services. These programs provide pathways to advanced degrees and prepare students for careers in clinical, counseling, and community health.
Programs:
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Rehabilitation & Human Services
The University of Scranton offers nationally recognized Jesuit-based healthcare education in Scranton. Programs include nursing, occupational and physical therapy, and health administration, along with pre-professional tracks for students pursuing medical or dental careers.
Programs:
- Nursing
- Occupational Therapy
- Physical Therapy
- Health Administration
- Pre-Professional Programs
Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre is home to the respected Nesbitt School of Pharmacy. The university also offers nursing and pre-professional healthcare tracks, preparing students for careers in medicine, pharmacy, and allied health fields.
Programs:
- Pharmacy
- Nursing
- Pre-Professional Programs
Healthcare in Action
Wellness & Healthy Living in NEPA
Good health is about more than doctor visits. NEPA’s hospitals, nonprofits, and community organizations are dedicated to supporting both physical and mental wellness. From preventive health tips to fitness programs and counseling services, local providers share resources that help residents stay active, positive, and healthy.
The region also offers abundant opportunities to support wellness through lifestyle — whether that means hiking scenic trails, joining a local fitness center, or exploring the health benefits of time spent outdoors.
Stay Well in Northeastern PA
Frequently Asked Questions About Healthcare in NEPA
- What hospital systems serve Northeastern Pennsylvania?
NEPA is home to several major networks, including Geisinger, Commonwealth Health, Lehigh Valley Health Network, and Allied Services, offering comprehensive care across the region. - Is healthcare in NEPA affordable?
Yes, healthcare in NEPA is generally more affordable than in larger metro areas. Residents benefit from lower costs for procedures, routine visits, and insurance, while still accessing high-quality care. - Does NEPA offer mental health and wellness services?
Yes, residents can access a wide range of mental health providers, counseling centers, and wellness programs. Many local hospitals and nonprofits also support community health initiatives. - Are there medical schools or training programs in NEPA?
NEPA is home to the Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, along with colleges and universities that offer nursing, pharmacy, therapy, and other healthcare degrees. - How far is NEPA from major medical hubs?
While most care is available locally, residents are within 2–3 hours of Philadelphia and New York City for specialized treatments if needed.
World-Class Care, Right at Home
Northeastern Pennsylvania offers world-class healthcare that’s accessible, affordable, and community-focused. With award-winning hospital systems, nationally respected medical training, and strong wellness resources, residents don’t need to leave the region for exceptional care.
Ready to learn more? Explore NEPA’s education and cost of living to see how healthcare fits into a lifestyle that’s both affordable and fulfilling.
