16172, New Wilmington, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16172, New Wilmington, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

98.77 percent of residents in 16172 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Jameson with a distance of 7.36 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16172

The overall health score for residents of New Wilmington, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16172), hinges significantly on their ability to access healthcare. This access is, in turn, intricately woven with the fabric of transportation options available. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of these options is crucial for anyone considering moving to New Wilmington, or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture of the healthcare access landscape.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents is personal vehicles. New Wilmington's location in Lawrence County dictates a reliance on roadways for accessing healthcare facilities. The nearest major hospitals are in nearby cities, necessitating a drive. The most direct route to UPMC Jameson Hospital in New Castle, a critical healthcare hub, involves taking **Route 208** east, connecting to **Route 18** south, and then finally to **East Washington Street**. This drive typically takes around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This time frame, while manageable, can be a significant factor during medical emergencies.

Another option is Sharon Regional Medical Center, located approximately 30-40 minutes away. The most common route involves traveling north on **Route 208** and then merging onto **I-376 West**. From there, exit onto **East State Street** in Sharon. This longer drive introduces the potential for delays due to interstate traffic, making it a less desirable option in urgent situations.

Specialty clinics and smaller medical practices are often located within the immediate vicinity of New Wilmington. These facilities, offering primary care, dental services, and specialized treatments, are generally accessible within a 5-15 minute drive. This proximity provides a significant advantage for routine checkups and preventative care. However, the availability of specialized services is limited compared to larger hospitals, necessitating travel for more complex medical needs.

Public transportation options in New Wilmington and Lawrence County are limited. The primary provider is the Lawrence County Transit Authority (LCTA). LCTA operates a fixed-route bus service, but its coverage in New Wilmington is minimal, primarily serving the town square and surrounding areas. The routes are not designed to directly connect with major healthcare facilities outside of New Wilmington.

Furthermore, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on LCTA buses is variable. While all buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and ramps, the frequency of service and the routes offered may not adequately cater to the needs of individuals with mobility limitations. This limitation poses a significant challenge for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent. While they offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to, the cost can be prohibitive for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase the cost of transportation. The limited availability of ride-sharing services, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas, can also create access barriers to healthcare.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or medical needs, are available in the region. These services, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, these services are often more expensive than other transportation options and may require pre-booking. The availability of these services can also be limited, particularly during peak demand or in rural areas.

The overall health score for residents of 16172 is influenced by the interplay of various factors. The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing major hospitals introduces the potential for delays due to traffic and weather conditions. The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. While medical transport services provide specialized assistance, their cost and availability can be limiting factors.

Considering moving to New Wilmington requires a thorough assessment of healthcare access. The proximity of local clinics and practices offers convenience for routine care, but the need to travel to larger hospitals for specialized treatments necessitates careful planning. Evaluating the availability and reliability of transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, is crucial for ensuring adequate healthcare access.

For those considering a move, researching the specific transportation needs and medical requirements is essential. Assessing the availability of reliable transportation options and the associated costs is critical for making an informed decision. Understanding the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services is also important.

The overall health score in New Wilmington is not solely determined by the availability of healthcare facilities. It is also intrinsically linked to the accessibility of those facilities. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation infrastructure, residents can make informed choices that optimize their healthcare journey.

The overall health score in 16172 is a complex equation. The drive times to major hospitals, the limitations of public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to the overall assessment. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing all influence the health score.

Ultimately, the health score for residents of 16172 hinges on their ability to navigate the transportation landscape and access the healthcare they need. This requires a proactive approach, including careful planning, consideration of all available options, and an understanding of the potential challenges. By carefully assessing the transportation options and their associated costs, residents can proactively manage their healthcare access and improve their overall health outcomes.