17901, Pottsville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17901, Pottsville, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.10 percent of residents in 17901 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 1.48 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17901

The health of a community is intricately woven with the threads of accessibility. In ZIP Code 17901, centered around Pottsville, Pennsylvania, the ability to reach necessary healthcare services is a crucial determinant of overall well-being. This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' based on the transportation infrastructure and available options for residents to access medical care, impacting those considering moving to Pottsville.

The landscape of healthcare access in 17901 is shaped by the region's unique geography. Nestled within the Appalachian Mountains, the area presents both challenges and opportunities for transportation. The 'Overall Health Score' considers the availability and efficiency of various modes of transport, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. It assesses the ease with which residents can reach hospitals, clinics, specialists, and other essential healthcare providers.

One of the primary considerations is the reliance on personal vehicles. The major roadways serving Pottsville are critical to healthcare access. Interstate 81, a major north-south artery, provides relatively quick access to larger medical centers outside the immediate area. Route 61, a vital east-west thoroughfare, is another key route, connecting Pottsville to surrounding towns and healthcare facilities. Route 209 and Route 901 offer additional connections, though they can be winding and subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant factor. Pottsville Hospital-Geisinger, located within the ZIP code, is the primary point of care. Drive times to this facility are generally short, depending on the specific location within 17901. However, access to specialized care often necessitates travel outside the immediate area. For instance, reaching larger hospitals in Reading or Allentown may involve drive times exceeding an hour, especially during periods of heavy traffic on I-81. These longer commutes can pose a challenge for individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Public transportation offers an alternative, albeit a limited one. Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) operates bus routes within the county. While the STS network provides some access to healthcare facilities, the routes and frequency may not fully meet the needs of all residents. Some routes connect to Pottsville Hospital-Geisinger and other medical offices, but service may be limited on evenings and weekends. The STS website provides detailed route maps and schedules, and it is important to note the availability of ADA-accessible buses.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering another transportation option. However, their availability and cost can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The reliability of ride-sharing services for medical appointments is a consideration, as cancellations or delays can disrupt care. Medical transportation companies also operate in the region. These services, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers, offer specialized transport for patients with specific medical needs, including those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transport.

The 'Overall Health Score' must also consider the specific needs of vulnerable populations. Elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those without access to personal vehicles may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare. The availability of accessible public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services is particularly critical for these groups. The presence of social services and community programs that provide transportation assistance is also a positive factor.

The healthcare landscape extends beyond hospitals and clinics. Access to pharmacies, dental offices, mental health services, and other specialized care providers is crucial. The concentration of these services within the ZIP code and the ease of reaching them via various transportation modes contribute to the overall score. The presence of telehealth options, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, can further enhance healthcare access, particularly for those with limited mobility or transportation challenges.

The 'Overall Health Score' is not static; it is subject to change based on evolving factors. Improvements in public transportation, expansion of ride-sharing services, and the development of new healthcare facilities can positively impact the score. Conversely, road closures, traffic congestion, and reductions in service availability can negatively affect it. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that residents have adequate access to the healthcare they need.

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in ZIP Code 17901 reveals a mixed picture. While Pottsville Hospital-Geisinger offers convenient local care, access to specialized services often requires travel. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation create challenges for some residents. Ride-sharing services and medical transport provide additional options, but their availability and cost must be considered.

For those considering moving to Pottsville, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is essential. Prospective residents should assess their individual needs and circumstances, considering factors such as mobility, health conditions, and access to a personal vehicle. Researching the availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options is crucial. The 'Overall Health Score' reflects the importance of transportation in determining the health and well-being of the community.