17948, Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17948, Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.48 percent of residents in 17948 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 9.19 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17948

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17948), requires a comprehensive evaluation of their ability to access healthcare. This analysis focuses on the critical element of transportation, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative mobility solutions. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the ease or difficulty residents face when seeking medical care, directly impacting their overall well-being. This information is particularly crucial for individuals considering moving to Mahanoy City, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare access.

Mahanoy City, nestled in Schuylkill County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its location, while offering a sense of community, necessitates careful consideration of transportation logistics. The primary concern is the distance to hospitals, specialist offices, and other essential medical services. The ability to navigate this landscape efficiently is paramount to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The dominant mode of transportation in Mahanoy City is the personal vehicle. The surrounding road network dictates the ease of reaching various healthcare facilities. For residents, the most immediate concern is accessing the nearest hospital, which is often dependent on traffic conditions and the specific destination.

Reaching Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg, a common destination for specialized care, involves traveling along **Route 901** to **Interstate 81 South**. The drive typically takes around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day. This route, while generally straightforward, can experience congestion during peak commuting hours.

Another critical healthcare destination is Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill in Pottsville. This journey requires navigating **Route 901** to **Route 61 South**. The travel time averages 20-30 minutes, offering a slightly shorter commute than to Orwigsburg. However, **Route 61** can be prone to traffic delays, especially during the morning and evening commutes.

For specialized care or facilities located further afield, residents might utilize **Interstate 81 North** or **South** to reach larger medical centers in cities like Scranton or Harrisburg. These longer journeys significantly increase travel time, potentially impacting the timeliness of care. The condition of these roads and the potential for inclement weather, particularly during winter months, must also be factored into the overall health score.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Mahanoy City are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service within the county, but the frequency and routes are often restricted.

STS Route 30, for example, serves Mahanoy City and connects it to Pottsville, the county seat. This route offers a potential link to Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill. However, the schedule may not be conducive to timely medical appointments, and the availability of evening or weekend service is often limited.

STS buses are generally equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the overall coverage and frequency of service may not adequately meet the needs of all residents, especially those requiring frequent medical appointments or those living in areas with limited bus access. The absence of a robust public transportation system contributes to a lower overall health score, particularly for individuals who are elderly, disabled, or unable to drive.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, providing an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, their availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents, further impacting their healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several ambulance services operate in the region, providing emergency medical care and transport to hospitals. NEMT services, such as those offered by companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM), offer non-emergency transportation to medical appointments. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transit. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, impacting the overall health score.

**Impact on the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for residents of 17948 is negatively impacted by the limitations in transportation options. While drive times to nearby hospitals are generally manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges for those without access to a car. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options offers some relief, but their cost and availability can be barriers to access.

The lack of comprehensive transportation options can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, hindering preventative care and exacerbating existing health conditions. This can result in poorer health outcomes and increased healthcare costs. The challenges in transportation also impact the ability of residents to access specialized care, such as mental health services, physical therapy, and other essential treatments.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the overall health score for residents of 17948, several measures are necessary. Expanding the STS bus service, increasing route frequency, and extending operating hours would significantly improve healthcare access. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as widening roads and improving traffic flow, would reduce drive times and enhance the efficiency of the road network. Promoting the use of telehealth services, where appropriate, could also reduce the need for travel.

Educating residents about available transportation options, including ride-sharing, medical transport services, and public transit routes, is crucial. This information should be readily accessible and easy to understand.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents of Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17948), is significantly influenced by transportation factors. While the proximity to healthcare facilities is relatively good, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create barriers to access. Improving public transportation, promoting ride-sharing and medical transport services, and investing in infrastructure improvements are essential steps to enhance healthcare access and improve the overall health and well-being of the community. For individuals considering moving to Mahanoy City, a thorough understanding of these transportation challenges and the available healthcare options is critical for making an informed decision. The future of Mahanoy City's health depends on addressing these transportation disparities and ensuring that all residents can access the care they need.