17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 17933 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 6.28 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Friedensburg, PA (ZIP Code 17933)

Friedensburg, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and practical considerations for prospective residents. When evaluating a move, especially for those prioritizing health and well-being, understanding the accessibility of healthcare services is paramount. This "Overall Health Score" delves into the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 17933, offering a comprehensive assessment of commute times, available options, and potential challenges. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Friedensburg, ensuring informed decisions about healthcare access and overall quality of life.

The foundation of any health score assessment lies in the accessibility of essential medical services. This includes hospitals, primary care physicians, specialists, urgent care facilities, and pharmacies. For residents of Friedensburg, the proximity and ease of access to these resources are largely dictated by the available transportation infrastructure. The primary mode of transport is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle.

Driving times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. The nearest hospital, **Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital - Orwigsburg**, is approximately a 10-15 minute drive, primarily via **Route 443**. This route is generally well-maintained, but can experience congestion during peak traffic hours, especially around the town of Orwigsburg. While this drive is relatively short, it's essential to factor in potential delays, particularly during inclement weather.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel further. **Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill** in Pottsville is about a 20-25 minute drive, primarily via **Route 61**. This hospital offers a broader range of services, including specialized clinics and advanced medical technology. The journey along Route 61 is generally straightforward, but again, traffic can be a consideration.

Beyond these larger hospitals, access to primary care physicians and specialists is also vital. Many local practices are located in nearby towns like Orwigsburg, Pottsville, and Schuylkill Haven. Driving times to these offices typically range from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions.

Public transportation options in and around Friedensburg are limited. The primary provider is **Schuylkill Transportation System (STS)**. While STS offers routes throughout Schuylkill County, service to and from Friedensburg is infrequent. The specific routes serving Friedensburg are not explicitly listed on their website, but residents can use the **Route 61/443** corridor to access bus stops.

The limited public transit options highlight a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The lack of frequent and reliable bus service can severely restrict healthcare access, particularly for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The STS buses, however, are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating. This is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the infrequency of service and the potential for long wait times can still pose significant challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary. While these services offer a convenient alternative to driving, they can be expensive, especially for frequent trips to healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas, is not guaranteed.

Medical transportation services are another option for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the Schuylkill County area, including **Liberty Ambulance** and **Medic 9**. These services typically cater to individuals with specific medical needs, such as those requiring assistance with mobility or those who are unable to travel independently. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance and the level of care required.

The availability of pharmacies within the Friedensburg area is also a critical factor. Several pharmacies are located in nearby towns, including Orwigsburg, Pottsville, and Schuylkill Haven. Driving times to these pharmacies are generally similar to those for healthcare facilities, ranging from 10 to 30 minutes. Access to medication is essential for maintaining health, and the ease of obtaining prescriptions is an important aspect of the overall health score.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Friedensburg, PA, is influenced by the dominance of personal vehicles as the primary mode of **transportation**. While the proximity to hospitals and medical facilities is generally good, the limited public **transportation** options and the potential reliance on ride-sharing services or medical **transportation** services can present challenges. The cost of these alternative **transportation** options can be a significant burden for some residents.

The decision to move to Friedensburg, therefore, requires careful consideration of individual circumstances. For those who own a vehicle and are comfortable driving, the commute times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable. However, for those who rely on public **transportation** or face mobility limitations, the lack of readily available and affordable options could significantly impact healthcare **access**.

The **healthcare access** assessment in Friedensburg is not entirely negative. The presence of a nearby hospital and the availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** options provide some degree of support. However, the limited public **transportation** and the potential cost of alternative options warrant careful consideration.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare **access** in Friedensburg, PA (ZIP Code 17933), is moderate. While the area benefits from relatively short driving times to essential medical facilities, the lack of robust public **transportation** and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for some residents. Prospective residents, especially those considering **moving to Friedensburg** and prioritizing their health, should carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs and explore all available options to ensure adequate **healthcare access**.