17936, Gordon, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 17936, Gordon, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.44 percent of residents in 17936 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 9.15 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gordon, PA (ZIP Code 17936)

The allure of a quiet life, the gentle sway of the Pennsylvania hills, and the promise of community – these are the whispers that might draw you to Gordon, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 17936. But for those battling arthritis, the serenity of small-town living must be tempered with the practicalities of healthcare access. This "Arthritis Score" write-up dives deep into the transportation landscape, assessing the ease with which residents can reach essential medical appointments and treatments. We'll examine the challenges and opportunities presented by this rural setting, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the realities of **healthcare access** for individuals considering **moving to Gordon**, particularly those managing the complexities of arthritis.

The central concern for anyone with arthritis is the predictable need for regular medical care. This includes appointments with rheumatologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and potentially, pain management specialists. The ability to consistently and comfortably reach these appointments is paramount to maintaining quality of life and managing the debilitating effects of the disease. In Gordon, the **transportation** options directly impact this ability.

Driving is, without a doubt, the primary mode of transportation for most residents in Gordon. The town is nestled in a valley, with access primarily via Route 901 and Route 125. Route 901, a two-lane highway, provides a direct link to Pottsville, the county seat and a regional hub for healthcare. Route 125 offers a north-south connection, but the journey to larger medical centers in Harrisburg or Allentown involves navigating a network of highways, including Interstate 81.

The drive time to Pottsville, where the nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are located, is generally around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. This may seem manageable, but for individuals with arthritis, even a short drive can be physically taxing. Pain, stiffness, and fatigue can make driving a significant challenge. The condition of the roads, particularly in winter, adds another layer of complexity. Snow and ice can make driving treacherous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to crucial medical appointments.

Venturing beyond Pottsville expands the drive times considerably. Reaching larger medical centers in Harrisburg, approximately 70 miles away, can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic on Interstate 81. Allentown, a similar distance to the east, presents a comparable travel time. These longer drives necessitate careful planning, including considering potential traffic delays, the need for rest stops, and the physical limitations of the individual.

Public transit options in Gordon are limited. Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout Schuylkill County. However, the routes and schedules are designed primarily to serve major population centers and employment hubs. While STS does offer some service to Gordon, the frequency of buses is limited, and the routes may not directly connect with all medical facilities. Moreover, the lack of dedicated ADA-accessible buses or limited availability of wheelchair-accessible stops can pose significant barriers for individuals with mobility issues.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Gordon is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliance on ride-sharing, therefore, introduces a degree of uncertainty and expense that can be detrimental to **healthcare access**.

Specialized medical transport services offer a more tailored approach. These services, such as medical transportation providers, are designed to transport individuals with medical needs, including those with mobility limitations. They often provide door-to-door service, assistance with boarding and disembarking, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, the availability of these services in Gordon might be limited, and the cost can be substantial, potentially placing a financial burden on patients.

The "Arthritis Score" for Gordon, therefore, reflects a mixed bag. While the proximity to Pottsville offers reasonable access to basic medical care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing create challenges. The potential for longer drives to specialized care, the unpredictable availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services all contribute to a less-than-ideal scenario for individuals managing arthritis.

For those considering **moving to Gordon**, a thorough assessment of their individual needs and capabilities is crucial. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the financial resources to cover the costs of ride-sharing or medical transport. It is also essential to research the specific healthcare providers in the area, their locations, and the ease of access to their facilities.

The decision to relocate to Gordon should be informed by a realistic understanding of the **transportation** challenges. While the town offers the appeal of a close-knit community and a slower pace of life, the practicalities of **healthcare access** for individuals with arthritis must be carefully considered. A proactive approach, including thorough planning and a willingness to adapt, is essential to ensuring that residents can maintain their health and well-being in this charming, yet geographically isolated, community.