17944, Llewellyn, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 17944, Llewellyn, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.38 percent of residents in 17944 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 4.84 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in 17944

The prospect of managing arthritis, a condition that can significantly impact mobility and daily living, necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access. This is particularly true for residents, or those contemplating a move, to Llewellyn, Pennsylvania, within the 17944 ZIP code. This analysis, an "Arthritis Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape, crucial for reaching essential medical appointments and therapies. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 17944, for those with arthritis, is the ability to reach medical facilities. Driving is the most common mode of transportation, and the primary routes are critical. The primary artery is **Route 901**, which winds through the heart of Llewellyn. This road connects to **Interstate 81**, a major north-south thoroughfare. Traffic conditions on I-81 can be unpredictable, particularly during peak hours, potentially adding significant time to commutes. A typical drive to a specialist in Pottsville, the county seat, might take 15-20 minutes under ideal conditions, but could easily double during rush hour.

The secondary road network includes **Route 54**, offering an alternative route east, and various local roads like **Creek Street** and **Main Street** within Llewellyn. These roads offer access to local pharmacies and general practitioner offices, vital for routine care and medication refills. However, their narrow lanes and occasional potholes can pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

Public transportation options are limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout Schuylkill County. However, service frequency in Llewellyn is limited, with routes and schedules subject to change. The primary route serving the area is likely to be Route 30, which connects to Pottsville. ADA accessibility is a crucial factor for those with arthritis. STS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, but availability and reliability can vary. Commuting by bus may require significant planning and potentially extended travel times due to limited routes and schedules. This is a major consideration for those with chronic pain or fatigue.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. While these services offer a degree of flexibility, they are not a guaranteed solution for reliable transportation, particularly for those with fixed incomes or limited access to technology.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including Schuylkill County Transportation and private companies. However, availability and cost can vary. Booking in advance is essential, and the services may not be available for all appointment times or locations.

Healthcare access extends beyond simply reaching a doctor's office. The availability of pharmacies, physical therapy clinics, and other support services is also critical. Llewellyn itself has limited healthcare infrastructure. Residents often need to travel to Pottsville or other nearby towns for specialized care. This further emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation.

Considering a move to Llewellyn, or any location, requires careful evaluation of healthcare access. The "Arthritis Score" for 17944 would be affected by the limited public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing services. The drive times to medical facilities, the availability of medical transport, and the overall accessibility of the local infrastructure all contribute to the score.

For individuals with arthritis, the ideal scenario includes easy access to medical appointments, physical therapy, and pharmacy services. This requires a combination of factors: reliable transportation, accessible facilities, and a supportive healthcare system. In the context of 17944, the "Arthritis Score" would likely reflect a moderate level of healthcare access. While driving offers the most flexibility, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport services must be carefully considered.

The decision to move to or reside in Llewellyn, Pennsylvania, for someone managing arthritis, necessitates a comprehensive assessment of their transportation needs. The ability to drive, or the availability of reliable alternative transportation, is paramount. The "Arthritis Score" is not a definitive number but a framework for evaluating the accessibility of healthcare resources. Careful planning, considering the challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure, is essential for ensuring a comfortable and manageable healthcare journey.