17922, Auburn, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17922, Auburn, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.71 percent of residents in 17922 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 4.57 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Auburn, PA (ZIP Code 17922)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Auburn, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17922) requires a comprehensive look at their healthcare access. This includes not just the availability of medical facilities but also the ease and efficiency of transportation to reach them. This write-up will delve into the intricacies of commuting to healthcare, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Auburn and prioritizing their well-being.

The primary challenge for Auburn residents is the relative scarcity of healthcare providers directly within the ZIP code. This necessitates travel to neighboring towns and cities for comprehensive medical care. The quality of transportation, therefore, directly impacts the health and well-being of the community.

**Driving Distances and Roadways**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Auburn is personal vehicles. Residents typically rely on their cars to reach hospitals, clinics, and specialists. The primary roadways serving Auburn are Route 895, a vital east-west artery, and Route 901, running north-south. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, particularly near intersections and in areas with commercial activity.

For those seeking specialized care, the drive to larger healthcare hubs becomes necessary. Pottsville, approximately 15 miles east, is a key destination. The journey typically involves Route 895 East, followed by a connection to Route 61 South. The drive time to Schuylkill Medical Center – East Norwegian Street, a major healthcare provider in Pottsville, usually ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

To the west, the city of Tremont, around 17 miles away, offers additional healthcare options. The route to Tremont involves Route 895 West and then connecting to Route 209 South. Drive times to facilities in Tremont are similar to those to Pottsville, typically taking between 25 to 35 minutes.

Further afield, Reading, approximately 45 miles south, provides access to a wider array of specialists and hospitals. The journey involves Route 895 East to Interstate 78 East, then connecting to Route 222 South. The drive to Reading can take upwards of an hour, making it a significant time commitment for routine appointments.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Auburn are extremely limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service within Schuylkill County, but its routes and schedules are not designed for frequent or convenient travel to healthcare facilities from Auburn.

STS Route 45, which runs between Pottsville and Pine Grove, is the closest service to Auburn. However, this route does not directly serve the town. Residents would need to arrange for a ride to a designated bus stop, adding to the complexity of their journey. Furthermore, the frequency of Route 45 is limited, with buses running on a schedule that may not align with appointment times.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on STS buses is generally available, with features such as ramps and designated seating areas. However, the overall lack of public transit options significantly limits healthcare access for individuals with disabilities or those unable to drive. This is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Auburn.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Auburn area, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or longer distances to specialized care.

Medical transport services provide a more specialized option for individuals who require assistance with transportation. These services often cater to patients with mobility issues or those needing assistance getting to and from appointments. Several medical transport companies operate in the Schuylkill County area, including MedStar Ambulance and Schuylkill EMS.

These services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or personal transportation. However, they offer a valuable resource for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Evaluation**

Evaluating the overall health score for Auburn, PA, necessitates a balanced consideration of the available healthcare facilities and the ease of transportation. While the town itself may have limited immediate healthcare options, the surrounding areas offer a range of choices. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, while generally manageable, can become burdensome for frequent appointments or specialized care. The lack of robust public transportation exacerbates these challenges, particularly for those without access to a car.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options, but their cost and reliability can vary. The overall health score for Auburn reflects a community that requires careful planning and consideration regarding transportation to healthcare.

**Conclusion: Considerations for Moving to Auburn**

For individuals considering moving to Auburn, understanding the intricacies of healthcare access is paramount. While the town offers a peaceful and rural environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation require careful consideration. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs, consider the proximity of healthcare facilities, and factor in the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport.

The overall health score for Auburn is influenced by the availability of healthcare facilities in surrounding towns and cities, coupled with the ease of access. The relative scarcity of public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles create a unique set of challenges. Anyone moving to Auburn should carefully weigh these factors and plan accordingly to ensure their healthcare needs are met effectively.