17931, Frackville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17931, Frackville, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.15 percent of residents in 17931 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 7.12 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Frackville, PA (ZIP Code 17931)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Frackville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17931) necessitates a deep dive into healthcare access, particularly concerning transportation. This analysis examines the available options for reaching medical facilities, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view for prospective residents considering moving to Frackville. The aim is to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities that shape healthcare access within this community.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Frackville is the ability to reach medical providers. For those with personal vehicles, the primary routes involve Interstate 81 (I-81), a major north-south artery, and Pennsylvania Route 61 (PA-61), which provides a direct link to Pottsville and other regional hubs. Pennsylvania Route 54 (PA-54) offers another option, albeit with a more winding path. The drive times to the nearest hospitals and specialist offices become crucial.

Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg, approximately 15 miles south via I-81, represents a readily accessible option. A typical drive takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The Schuylkill Medical Center – East Norwegian Street Campus in Pottsville, roughly 10 miles east via PA-61, is another significant healthcare provider, with a drive time of approximately 15-25 minutes. These drive times, while generally manageable, underscore the reliance on personal vehicles for many residents.

Public transportation options within Frackville are limited, impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout Schuylkill County. Route 30, the primary route serving Frackville, offers connections to Pottsville and other towns. However, the frequency of service is limited, especially on weekends and evenings. While STS buses are equipped with ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, the infrequent schedules pose a significant barrier to timely healthcare access.

For individuals requiring specialized transportation, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Frackville area, though their availability can be inconsistent. The presence of these services offers a degree of flexibility, particularly for those unable to drive. However, surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase the cost, potentially limiting their accessibility for routine medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), play a critical role in bridging the gap for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Schuylkill EMS, among other providers, offers ambulance services for emergencies. NEMT services, often provided by private companies, transport patients to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other healthcare-related destinations. These services are crucial for ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable populations, but their availability and cost must be considered.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Frackville, PA (17931) is moderate. While the proximity of hospitals and specialist offices offers a degree of convenience for those with personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create challenges. The availability of medical transport services mitigates some of these challenges, but the overall picture highlights the importance of personal vehicle ownership and the need for improved public transportation infrastructure.

The impact of healthcare access on the decision to move to Frackville cannot be overstated. Prospective residents, especially those with chronic health conditions or limited mobility, must carefully consider the transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for limited options could be a significant factor. However, the relatively short drive times to healthcare facilities and the presence of medical transport services offer some reassurance.

The need for improved public transportation is evident. Increased frequency of STS Route 30, expanded service hours, and enhanced coordination with healthcare providers could significantly improve healthcare access for Frackville residents. Furthermore, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could be beneficial.

In conclusion, while Frackville offers reasonable healthcare access for those with personal vehicles, the limitations in public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net. For individuals considering moving to Frackville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. The overall health score, therefore, reflects a balance between accessibility and potential limitations, underscoring the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access for all residents. The future of healthcare access in Frackville hinges on the development of a more robust and accessible transportation infrastructure.