17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.08 percent of residents in 17934 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 8.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17934 (Gilberton, PA)

This report analyzes the overall health score for residents of Gilberton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17934), focusing on the crucial aspect of healthcare access. We will examine the transportation landscape, dissecting drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This comprehensive evaluation aims to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical care, particularly for those considering moving to Gilberton.

Gilberton, nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, presents a unique set of circumstances when it comes to healthcare access. The town’s relative isolation, coupled with its limited public transportation infrastructure, significantly impacts the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. This reality is a critical consideration in assessing the overall health score for this community.

**Drive Time and Road Networks: The Primary Arteries**

For most Gilberton residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments. The efficiency of this mode hinges on the road network. Accessing larger medical centers often requires navigating a web of highways and local roads. The primary route for accessing healthcare in Pottsville, the county seat and a major healthcare hub, involves using **PA-924** south. This road, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially adding significant time to the commute.

Further afield, accessing larger hospitals in Reading or Allentown necessitates travel on **Interstate 81** (I-81). This major interstate provides a faster, albeit longer, route. However, weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can make this drive treacherous. The journey to Reading, approximately 50 miles away, can take over an hour under ideal conditions, while Allentown, roughly 75 miles, could take nearly two hours. The time commitment is a significant factor in evaluating healthcare access.

Smaller, local roads, such as **Main Street** and **Centre Street** in Gilberton, provide access to local pharmacies and doctor's offices, but they are not designed for high-speed travel. These routes are often the only options for those without vehicles, highlighting the transportation challenges. The condition of these local roads can also impact the accessibility of healthcare, with potholes and poor maintenance creating additional hurdles.

**Public Transit: A Limited Safety Net**

Public transportation options in Gilberton are severely limited. The primary provider, **Schuylkill Transportation System (STS)**, offers some routes, but their frequency and coverage are restricted. Residents would need to check STS schedules for routes, but the service is not designed for frequent medical appointments. The availability of public transit is a critical factor, especially for those who do not own vehicles, are elderly, or have mobility limitations.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a crucial consideration. While STS buses are required to be ADA-compliant, the overall infrastructure, including bus stop accessibility, might not always meet the needs of individuals with disabilities. The lack of frequent service, combined with the potential for long wait times, presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Gilberton and surrounding areas can be inconsistent. Availability often depends on the time of day and the demand. Relying on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments can be unreliable.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals needing assistance. These services are often booked in advance and can be costly, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access. The availability of these services is vital for those who cannot drive and lack access to public transit.

**Evaluating the Overall Health Score**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Gilberton (17934) is significantly impacted by the transportation challenges. While residents can access medical care, the commute times, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create barriers.

The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic congestion, and the distance to larger medical centers all contribute to a lower score. The lack of readily available public transit and the potential cost of medical transport further diminish the score.

**Implications for Moving to Gilberton**

For individuals considering moving to Gilberton, the healthcare access situation is a critical factor to consider. Those with chronic health conditions or frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the feasibility of their healthcare needs. The need for a reliable vehicle, the potential for long commutes, and the limited public transit options should be weighed against the benefits of living in this community.

Furthermore, individuals should research local healthcare providers and hospitals, understanding their specialties and the transportation options available to reach them. Careful planning and consideration of the transportation challenges are essential for ensuring adequate healthcare access.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

Improving healthcare access in Gilberton requires a multifaceted approach. Increasing the frequency and coverage of public transportation is crucial. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized rides for medical appointments could also improve accessibility.

Investing in local infrastructure, such as sidewalks and accessible bus stops, would benefit all residents. Promoting telehealth services and expanding the availability of home healthcare could also mitigate the impact of transportation challenges.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in Gilberton is moderate, primarily due to the transportation limitations. While residents can access medical care, the challenges associated with commuting, public transit, and ride-sharing must be acknowledged. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments and community partnerships is vital to improve the health and well-being of Gilberton residents. This analysis underscores the importance of considering transportation infrastructure when evaluating the overall health of a community, especially for those considering moving to Gilberton.