17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.83 percent of residents in 17943 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 11.40 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Lavelle, PA (ZIP Code 17943)

Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania's coal region, Lavelle (ZIP Code 17943) presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Evaluating the "Overall Health Score" for this area requires a deep dive into the realities of transportation, a critical factor that significantly shapes residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. This assessment considers various modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of the landscape for those seeking healthcare in and around Lavelle.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in Lavelle is the personal vehicle. The landscape is dotted with winding roads and rolling hills, making driving the most practical option for navigating the region. Accessing healthcare facilities often involves traveling on **Route 901**, the main artery connecting Lavelle to nearby towns and cities. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying access to urgent care. Additionally, **Route 61**, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides another avenue for reaching larger medical centers, but the distance and potential for traffic remain considerations.

The drive-times to healthcare facilities are a crucial component of the Overall Health Score. The closest primary care physicians are likely located in nearby towns like Ashland and Frackville, requiring a drive of approximately 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, often necessitates travel to larger hospitals in Pottsville (approximately 30-45 minutes) or even Reading (over an hour), significantly impacting the time and effort required to receive specialized treatment. These longer drive-times can be particularly challenging for individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations, further highlighting the importance of understanding the available transportation options.

Public transit options in Lavelle are limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides some bus service in the region, but routes are infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transit system. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules can make relying on public transit for healthcare appointments a logistical challenge, especially for those requiring regular visits.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, but their availability in rural areas like Lavelle is often inconsistent. While these services may be present, wait times can be longer, and the cost can be higher compared to urban areas. This variability poses a challenge for individuals needing immediate medical attention or those with limited financial resources. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services, particularly during inclement weather, which is common in the region, can be a concern.

Medical transport services are a vital resource for individuals with significant mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care. Ambulance services are readily available for emergency situations, but the cost of non-emergency medical transportation can be a significant burden. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport providers. However, the availability of these services, the insurance coverage, and the associated costs must be carefully considered when assessing the Overall Health Score.

For those **moving to Lavelle**, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for planning healthcare access. The distance to medical facilities, the availability of public transit, and the reliability of ride-sharing services are all factors that should be considered when making a relocation decision. Proximity to primary care physicians, access to specialized medical services, and the availability of medical transport options should be carefully evaluated to ensure that healthcare needs can be met effectively.

The Overall Health Score for Lavelle, therefore, reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the challenges of transportation significantly impact healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers for many residents. The longer drive-times to specialized care and the cost of medical transport further exacerbate these challenges.

The availability of healthcare access is a critical determinant of overall health outcomes. Residents of Lavelle must navigate a landscape where transportation limitations can affect their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. This underscores the importance of addressing the transportation challenges to improve the Overall Health Score for the community.

Improving healthcare access in Lavelle requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transit routes and increasing the frequency of service would significantly benefit residents. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to ensure consistent service and explore subsidized transportation options for low-income individuals could also improve access. Promoting the use of telehealth services, where appropriate, can also reduce the need for travel.

Furthermore, community initiatives to promote carpooling or establish volunteer driver programs could offer additional support for those without personal vehicles. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as better road maintenance and improved signage, can also enhance the safety and efficiency of travel. By addressing these transportation challenges, Lavelle can improve its Overall Health Score and ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need.

The Overall Health Score is not just a numerical value; it represents the collective well-being of the community. By acknowledging and addressing the transportation barriers to healthcare access, Lavelle can strive to create a healthier and more equitable environment for all its residents. The journey to improved healthcare access is a continuous process, requiring ongoing collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government.