18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.72 percent of residents in 18655 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berwick Hospital Center with a distance of 7.69 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shickshinny (ZIP Code 18655)

The allure of Shickshinny, Pennsylvania, nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Susquehanna River Valley, is undeniable. Fresh air, a slower pace of life, and a strong sense of community beckon those seeking respite from the urban clamor. However, for individuals managing arthritis, the practicalities of healthcare access are paramount. This "Arthritis Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP code 18655, evaluating the ease with which residents can access essential medical care, particularly rheumatology services. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone considering moving to Shickshinny, ensuring their healthcare needs are met.

The primary concern for residents of Shickshinny, and indeed the surrounding rural areas, is the availability and accessibility of specialized medical care. Rheumatologists, specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis, are not readily available within the immediate vicinity. This necessitates travel, making transportation a critical factor in the overall quality of life for those living with arthritis. The "Arthritis Score" will consider drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation resources, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in Shickshinny. The town is primarily served by Pennsylvania Route 239, a key artery connecting the community to surrounding areas. Accessing larger medical centers requires navigating this route and connecting to major highways. For instance, reaching Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, a significant regional healthcare provider, involves traveling approximately 25 miles, a drive that typically takes between 35 and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey involves utilizing PA-239 and transitioning onto Interstate 81 (I-81) south.

Further afield, the drive to the University of Pennsylvania Health System in Philadelphia, a potential destination for specialized rheumatology care, is a significant undertaking. This journey, covering roughly 130 miles, necessitates navigating I-81 south to Interstate 476 (I-476) south, also known as the Blue Route. The drive time can range from 2.5 to 3 hours, making it a demanding trip for individuals experiencing chronic pain and mobility limitations. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, adds another layer of complexity to this transportation challenge.

Public transportation options in Shickshinny are limited. Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting smaller towns to the Wilkes-Barre area. The availability of routes and their frequency are not ideal for regular medical appointments, especially those requiring specialized care. The LCTA operates several routes, but their schedules are not conducive to timely medical appointments. Furthermore, while the LCTA endeavors to provide ADA-accessible buses, the limited frequency and route coverage pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility issues.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, though their presence is less reliable compared to more urban areas. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the demand. Securing a ride for a medical appointment requires careful planning and scheduling, potentially necessitating booking well in advance. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services are another option, specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs. Several companies offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services in the area. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles. However, availability, cost, and the need for pre-booking are important considerations. Researching and identifying reliable NEMT providers is a crucial step for anyone considering moving to Shickshinny and managing arthritis.

The "Arthritis Score" for Shickshinny, considering the limited transportation options and the distance to specialized medical care, presents a challenge. While the beauty and tranquility of the area are undeniable, the practicalities of healthcare access require careful consideration. The reliance on personal vehicles, the infrequent public transportation, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services necessitate proactive planning.

For individuals with arthritis, the ability to maintain regular appointments with a rheumatologist is crucial for managing their condition. This requires a reliable and accessible means of transportation. Moving to Shickshinny necessitates a thorough assessment of one's transportation capabilities and the potential need for assistance.

The "Arthritis Score" also highlights the importance of community support. Access to a supportive network of family, friends, or caregivers can significantly ease the burden of transportation. Assistance with driving, arranging rides, or coordinating medical transportation can make a substantial difference in a person's ability to access necessary healthcare.

In conclusion, while Shickshinny offers a desirable lifestyle, individuals with arthritis must carefully evaluate the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access. The drive times to specialized medical facilities, the limitations of public transportation, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services require proactive planning and a consideration of alternative transportation options. Researching medical transportation providers, exploring the potential for community support, and assessing one's ability to navigate the transportation landscape are crucial steps in ensuring access to the necessary medical care. The "Arthritis Score" emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to healthcare, considering not only the availability of medical services but also the practicality of accessing them.