17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.35 percent of residents in 17935 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 9.06 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Girardville, PA (ZIP Code 17935)

Assessing the overall health of a community involves examining a multitude of factors, with **transportation** playing a crucial role in **healthcare access**. For residents of Girardville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17935), the ability to reach medical facilities is a critical determinant of their well-being. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" by evaluating the available transportation options and their impact on accessing healthcare services. This is particularly relevant for anyone **moving to Girardville** and considering their future medical needs.

Girardville, nestled in Schuylkill County, offers a tranquil lifestyle, but its rural location presents challenges in accessing specialized medical care. The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in larger towns, requiring residents to navigate a network of roads and potentially rely on alternative transportation methods. This write-up will delve into the specifics of those journeys.

**Drive Times and Road Network**

The primary arteries connecting Girardville to healthcare providers are Route 54 and Route 901. Route 54, heading east, provides access to the Pottsville area, where Schuylkill Medical Center – East Norwegian Street offers a range of services, including emergency care, primary care, and various specialist consultations. The drive from Girardville to Pottsville typically takes 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Route 901, traveling west, leads to Ashland and the surrounding areas. While Ashland itself has limited healthcare options, it serves as a connection point to other towns with healthcare facilities. Driving to Ashland from Girardville is a short 5-10 minute journey.

The secondary roads, such as Main Street in Girardville, provide access to local pharmacies and general practitioners' offices. However, for more complex medical needs, residents often need to venture further afield. The condition of these roads is generally good, but winter weather can sometimes pose challenges, potentially increasing travel times and necessitating caution.

For those seeking specialized care, such as advanced cardiology or oncology services, the drive times increase significantly. The Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, approximately an hour and fifteen minutes away via Route 61 and I-80, is a major regional healthcare provider. Similarly, the drive to Lehigh Valley Hospital – Schuylkill in Pottsville, which offers advanced services, takes approximately 30 minutes. These longer travel times can be a significant barrier for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

**Public Transportation Options**

Public transportation options in Girardville are limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) operates bus routes throughout the county, but service to Girardville is infrequent. Route 301, for example, connects Pottsville to Ashland, passing through Girardville. However, the schedule may not align with the needs of individuals requiring medical appointments.

The STS buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating, to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of service can still pose challenges for those with mobility issues or those who need to travel during off-peak hours.

For individuals without personal vehicles, the reliance on public transportation can significantly impact their ability to access healthcare. The extended travel times and potential for missed appointments due to infrequent service can exacerbate existing health conditions and limit access to preventative care.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Girardville area, but their availability may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available for individuals who require assistance with transportation due to medical conditions. These services often require pre-booking and can be costly. Several local ambulance companies serve the area, and their response times are generally good, but the cost of these services can be a burden.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations**

The "Overall Health Score" for Girardville residents concerning **healthcare access** is moderately concerning. While the proximity to Pottsville and Ashland provides access to basic medical services, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles create barriers for some residents. The longer drive times to specialized care facilities, coupled with the potential for winter weather delays, further complicate the situation.

For individuals **moving to Girardville**, it is crucial to consider their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations may face challenges in accessing timely medical care. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation should also be factored into their financial planning.

The community could benefit from increased public transportation frequency, particularly routes connecting Girardville to healthcare facilities in Pottsville and beyond. Partnerships between local healthcare providers and transportation services could also improve access to care. Additionally, promoting telehealth options and offering home healthcare services could mitigate some of the transportation challenges.

In conclusion, while Girardville offers a pleasant living environment, the limitations in **transportation** options pose a challenge to **healthcare access**, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility issues. Residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential impact on their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. The "Overall Health Score" for Girardville could be improved by addressing these transportation challenges and expanding access to healthcare services.