The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
69.44 percent of residents in 17979 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 8.04 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania
Arthritis Score | 95 |
---|---|
People Score | 97 |
Provider Score | 60 |
Hospital Score | 53 |
Travel Score | 69 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 17979 | Summit Station | Pennsylvania |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 5.04 |
1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 21.45 |
2 Cars | 36.11 | 36.11 | 41.29 |
3 or More Cars | 63.89 | 63.89 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania
## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Summit Station, PA (ZIP Code 17979)
The creak of aging joints, a familiar soundtrack for many, becomes a more pressing concern when considering access to healthcare. For individuals contemplating a move to Summit Station, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17979), or already residing there, understanding the "Arthritis Score" – a metaphorical gauge of healthcare accessibility – is paramount. This score considers the ease with which one can reach medical professionals, particularly those specializing in rheumatology, orthopedics, and pain management, crucial for managing arthritis. It’s a complex equation, weighing factors like drive times, public transportation options, and the availability of ride-sharing services, all interwoven with the unique challenges of rural transportation.
Summit Station, nestled in Schuylkill County, offers a tranquil lifestyle, but its rural setting presents significant transportation hurdles. The nearest major medical centers are located in Pottsville, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, and Reading, a longer trek of about 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. These distances, while seemingly manageable, can become arduous for individuals experiencing arthritis flare-ups, making even routine appointments a significant undertaking.
The primary arteries for travel are Route 895, the main thoroughfare connecting Summit Station to the surrounding towns, and Route 901, which provides access to Interstate 81. Route 895, a two-lane road, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near Pottsville. Navigating these roads, especially in inclement weather, demands caution and can exacerbate pain and discomfort. Considering the potential for increased pain, the Arthritis Score is negatively impacted by these longer travel times.
Public transportation options in Summit Station are limited. Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout the county, but routes serving Summit Station are infrequent and may not directly connect to major medical facilities. The availability of ADA-compliant buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, and STS does offer this feature on some routes. However, the limited schedule and potential for multiple transfers significantly reduce the convenience and accessibility of public transit, further impacting the Arthritis Score.
For those unable to drive, or when driving is too painful, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative. However, the availability of these services in Summit Station is inconsistent. The rural nature of the area means that wait times can be longer, and the cost of a ride may be higher compared to more urban areas. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access, particularly for those needing timely medical attention.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility challenges, can bridge the gap. Companies like MedRide and First Transit offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with medical appointments. While these services provide a valuable lifeline, they often require advance booking and can be expensive, representing a financial burden for some individuals. The Arthritis Score is positively influenced by these services, but their limited availability and cost need to be considered.
The availability of specialized medical care in the immediate vicinity of Summit Station is another critical factor. While Pottsville offers a range of specialists, including rheumatologists and orthopedic surgeons, the demand for appointments can be high, and wait times may be significant. The Arthritis Score is negatively affected by limited specialist availability and the potential for delayed access to crucial medical interventions.
Moving to Summit Station, therefore, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The Arthritis Score for this area is moderate, reflecting the challenges of rural transportation. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle, the limited public transportation, inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the need to travel to reach specialized medical care create obstacles for individuals managing arthritis.
The ideal scenario would involve a robust public transportation system with frequent routes to medical facilities, readily available ride-sharing services, and a network of medical transportation providers. Furthermore, the presence of a local clinic or satellite office with rheumatology and orthopedic services would significantly improve the Arthritis Score, providing convenient access to specialized care.
In conclusion, while Summit Station offers a desirable quality of life, individuals with arthritis must carefully assess their ability to navigate the transportation landscape. They should consider the impact of drive times, the limitations of public transit, the uncertainties of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transportation services. Planning ahead, exploring all available options, and potentially establishing relationships with healthcare providers in advance are essential steps to ensure accessible and timely medical care, ultimately contributing to a more positive Arthritis Score and a better quality of life in this charming Pennsylvania community. The decision to move to Summit Station should include a thorough examination of these factors to ensure that healthcare access aligns with individual needs and mobility limitations.
Reviews
No reviews yet.
You may also like