18457, Rowland, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 18457, Rowland, Pennsylvania is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.00 percent of residents in 18457 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne Memorial Hospital with a distance of 13.10 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rowland, PA (ZIP Code 18457)

The allure of a tranquil life in Rowland, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18457), often beckons those seeking respite from the frenetic pace of city living. However, for individuals managing arthritis, the serenity of rural life demands a meticulous assessment of healthcare access. This "Arthritis Score" delves into the transportation landscape, crucial for navigating the complexities of medical appointments, therapy sessions, and medication refills, essential for maintaining quality of life.

The primary consideration is the availability of rheumatologists, orthopedic specialists, physical therapists, and pain management clinics. Rowland itself, a charming village nestled in the Pocono Mountains, offers limited on-site medical facilities. This reality necessitates reliance on neighboring towns and cities for specialized care. The Arthritis Score, therefore, focuses on the practicality of "commute to healthcare" from the heart of Rowland.

**The Road Ahead: Drive Times and Routes**

The automobile reigns supreme in this region. The primary artery for travel is Interstate 84 (I-84), providing relatively swift access to larger medical centers. Driving to Scranton, approximately 45 miles west, presents a significant healthcare hub. The journey, primarily via I-84 West, typically takes around one hour, depending on traffic. This drive time must be factored into appointment scheduling, especially considering the potential for weather-related delays during the winter months.

The alternative route to Scranton involves a combination of local roads, including Pennsylvania Route 6 (PA-6) and US Route 6. While scenic, these roads are often slower, with more stop signs and potential for congestion in smaller towns. This route could add 15-30 minutes to the travel time, making it less desirable for regular appointments.

For those seeking care closer to home, Milford, PA, roughly 20 miles southeast, offers some medical services. The commute, primarily via PA-6, is generally a 30-40 minute drive. While Milford may not have the breadth of specialists found in Scranton, it provides a more accessible option for routine check-ups and physical therapy.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Rowland are severely limited. The Lackawanna County Transit System (LCTS) serves Scranton and surrounding areas, but its reach into rural communities like Rowland is minimal. There are no direct bus routes connecting Rowland to Scranton or other major medical centers. This severely restricts healthcare access for individuals unable to drive or who prefer not to drive.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses, equipped with ramps and other accessibility features, is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. While LCTS strives to provide accessible transportation, the infrequent service and lack of routes directly serving Rowland render it a challenging option for arthritis sufferers.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Navigating the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness in rural areas can be questionable. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is not guaranteed. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate quickly, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like CareRide and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to individuals with mobility challenges. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be expensive.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Consideration**

The Arthritis Score highlights the challenges of healthcare access in Rowland. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant hurdles for individuals managing arthritis. The need for regular medical appointments, physical therapy, and medication refills necessitates careful planning and a proactive approach to transportation.

Individuals considering moving to Rowland should prioritize researching the availability of healthcare providers in the surrounding areas. Identifying specialists, physical therapists, and pharmacies that accept their insurance is crucial. Establishing relationships with medical professionals in advance can help streamline the process of scheduling appointments and obtaining necessary care.

**Beyond Transportation: Considerations for a Holistic Approach**

The Arthritis Score is not solely about transportation. Other factors are essential for successful healthcare access. These include the availability of accessible parking at medical facilities, the presence of wheelchair-friendly waiting rooms, and the willingness of medical staff to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations.

Furthermore, understanding the local pharmacy landscape is critical. Identifying pharmacies that offer medication delivery services or have drive-through windows can significantly ease the burden of medication refills.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

Rowland, with its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, presents an attractive option for many. However, individuals with arthritis must carefully weigh the benefits against the challenges of healthcare access. The reliance on personal transportation, the limited public transit options, and the potential for high transportation costs necessitate a proactive approach to healthcare planning.

The Arthritis Score emphasizes the importance of researching healthcare providers, exploring medical transportation options, and building a support network. By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about whether Rowland is the right place to call home. While the transportation landscape presents challenges, with diligent planning, individuals with arthritis can successfully navigate the complexities of healthcare access and enjoy the tranquility of life in this picturesque corner of Pennsylvania.