17925, Brockton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17925, Brockton, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.38 percent of residents in 17925 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 6.89 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17925

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is paramount for overall well-being. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 17925, focusing on the critical element of transportation to medical facilities. Understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching doctors, hospitals, and other essential healthcare services is crucial, especially for individuals considering moving to Brockton or those already residing within the area. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services.

ZIP Code 17925 encompasses the town of Brockton, Pennsylvania, a predominantly rural area. This geographic context significantly influences the transportation landscape and, consequently, healthcare access. The score reflects the reality of living in a community where reliance on personal vehicles is often the norm. The availability of alternative transportation methods, while present, is limited.

**Drive Times: The Primary Mode**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments in 17925 is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The time it takes to reach various medical facilities directly impacts the health score. Several factors influence drive times, including traffic, road conditions, and the distance to specific healthcare providers.

For routine appointments, such as primary care physician visits, residents typically travel along **Route 209** and **Route 54**. These roads are generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor during peak hours, particularly in the vicinity of larger towns like Pottsville. Drive times to primary care facilities in Pottsville are generally between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions.

Specialist appointments and hospital visits often necessitate longer journeys. The closest major hospitals, such as Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital – Orwigsburg, are approximately a 30-45 minute drive via **Interstate 81** and **Route 443**. Access to specialized care, therefore, requires a more significant time commitment, potentially impacting the health score for those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent medical attention.

Emergency situations demand immediate access to care. The drive time to the nearest emergency room is a critical factor. While ambulance services are available, the time it takes for an ambulance to arrive and transport a patient can be significant in a rural area. This aspect contributes to the overall assessment.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in 17925 are limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service in the region. However, routes and schedules may not be ideal for healthcare access.

STS Route 40, for example, offers service through the area, but frequency and destinations may not align with the needs of those seeking medical care. The route primarily serves the Pottsville area and neighboring communities. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. The STS strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, but the availability of accessible routes and the ease of navigating transfer points must be factored in.

The limitations of public transit in this area suggest a lower score for healthcare access for those who cannot or do not wish to drive. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of considering transportation when evaluating the overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Niche Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability may be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The reliability of ride-sharing for healthcare appointments is a key consideration. Booking in advance and ensuring availability is crucial, potentially adding to the stress of healthcare access.

Medical transport services offer specialized transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Companies like Medical Transportation Services of PA and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services are often pre-booked and can provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility devices.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can be a significant barrier for some residents. The financial burden of transportation can exacerbate existing healthcare disparities, especially for low-income individuals or those with limited insurance coverage.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations**

The "Overall Health Score" for transportation to healthcare in 17925 reflects a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for longer drive times, particularly for specialized care, negatively impact the score. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing further diminish the score.

The availability of medical transport services provides a valuable, albeit potentially costly, alternative for those with specific needs. The score must consider the economic factors and the impact of transportation costs on healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Brockton, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Factors such as access to a vehicle, the ability to drive, and the availability of support networks are critical. Understanding the limitations of public transit and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access.

The overall health score should be viewed as a dynamic measure. Efforts to improve public transit, expand ride-sharing availability, or promote community-based transportation solutions could significantly enhance the score and improve healthcare access for residents of 17925. The score is not a static number but a reflection of the current transportation landscape and its impact on the ability of residents to obtain necessary medical care.