18707, Mountain Top, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 18707, Mountain Top, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.31 percent of residents in 18707 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilkes-Barre General Hospital with a distance of 8.52 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in 18707 Mountain Top, Pennsylvania

The diagnosis of arthritis can dramatically alter one's life, impacting mobility and daily routines. For those considering a move to Mountain Top, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18707), understanding the accessibility of healthcare becomes paramount. This "Arthritis Score" assesses the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities, considering factors crucial for individuals managing arthritis: drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. This information is critical for informed **healthcare access** decisions, especially for those **moving to Mountain Top**.

Mountain Top, nestled in Luzerne County, offers a serene environment, but its location presents unique **transportation** challenges. The area’s topography and limited public transit necessitate careful consideration of how one will reach vital medical appointments. The Arthritis Score aims to provide a clear picture of these realities, allowing potential residents to evaluate the practicality of living in this community.

**Drive Times: The Foundation of Accessibility**

Driving remains the primary mode of **transportation** in Mountain Top. The reliance on personal vehicles means understanding drive times to various healthcare providers is essential. The primary arteries serving the area are Interstate 81 (I-81) and Pennsylvania Route 309 (PA-309). I-81 provides north-south access, while PA-309 offers a more direct route to Wilkes-Barre and surrounding areas.

For rheumatologists, orthopedic specialists, and pain management clinics, the primary destinations are Wilkes-Barre and Kingston. Expect a 15-25 minute drive to Wilkes-Barre via PA-309, depending on traffic. Kingston, slightly closer, might be reached in 10-20 minutes. During peak hours, especially morning and evening commutes, traffic congestion can extend these times, impacting individuals with mobility limitations.

Accessing hospitals like Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township typically involves a 20-30 minute drive via PA-309 or I-81. The proximity of these medical facilities is generally favorable. However, the variability in travel times due to traffic and weather conditions necessitates planning and flexibility.

Specialized facilities, such as rehabilitation centers or physical therapy clinics, may require travel to more distant locations. Consider the potential for longer drive times to these specialized services when assessing the overall **healthcare access** landscape.

**Public Transit: A Limited Alternative**

Public transit options in 18707 are limited, posing a significant hurdle for individuals reliant on alternative **transportation**. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service, but routes within Mountain Top and to surrounding areas are infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities.

The primary LCTA route servicing Mountain Top is Route 18, which travels to Wilkes-Barre. This route operates on a limited schedule, with reduced service on weekends and holidays. This lack of frequency makes it challenging to schedule medical appointments and return home within a reasonable timeframe.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses (those equipped with ramps and other accessibility features) should be confirmed before relying on public transit. While LCTA strives to provide accessible service, it is essential to verify the availability of accessible vehicles on specific routes and at specific times. This is crucial for individuals with mobility impairments.

The LCTA website and customer service representatives are valuable resources for obtaining detailed route information, schedules, and ADA accessibility details. However, the limited reach and frequency of public transit in Mountain Top necessitate careful planning and consideration of alternative **transportation** options.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving and public transit. However, availability in Mountain Top can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliance on these services requires advance booking and potential waiting times, which can be problematic for those with arthritis.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and carrying medical equipment. Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the Wilkes-Barre area, including, but not limited to, companies like First Transit and CareRide.

Researching the specific services offered by these companies, including their coverage area, fees, and accessibility features, is crucial. Medical **transportation** can be a valuable resource for individuals with arthritis, but it comes with associated costs. The Arthritis Score should factor in the financial implications of relying on these services.

**The Arthritis Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Arthritis Score for 18707 is not a single number but a holistic assessment considering the interplay of these factors. It acknowledges the challenges of **transportation** and **healthcare access** in this community. The score weighs the relatively short drive times to medical facilities against the limitations of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services.

The score also emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. Individuals with arthritis should research medical **transportation** options, familiarize themselves with LCTA routes and schedules, and consider the potential impact of traffic and weather on travel times.

For those **moving to Mountain Top**, the Arthritis Score serves as a crucial tool for informed decision-making. It highlights the need to balance the appeal of a serene environment with the practicalities of accessing essential healthcare services. The score encourages prospective residents to prioritize their mobility needs and carefully evaluate the available **transportation** options.

Ultimately, the Arthritis Score underscores the importance of individual assessment. The ideal score will vary based on the severity of one's arthritis, their ability to drive, their financial resources, and their willingness to adapt to the **transportation** landscape of Mountain Top. By understanding these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their **healthcare access** and quality of life in this unique community.