17951, Mar Lin, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17951, Mar Lin, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.25 percent of residents in 17951 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 3.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17951 (Mar Lin, PA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Mar Lin, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17951) necessitates a comprehensive examination of healthcare access, particularly focusing on the ease and efficiency of **transportation** to medical facilities. This analysis considers various modes of travel, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities facing individuals seeking timely and convenient **healthcare access** in this Schuylkill County community. This information is crucial for anyone **moving to Mar Lin** and wanting to understand the local healthcare landscape.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Mar Lin is its geographical location. Nestled within the Appalachian Mountains, the area presents unique challenges for **transportation**. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, with limited public transit options. This reality demands a careful evaluation of drive times to various healthcare providers.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

For residents of Mar Lin, the most direct route to larger medical centers involves navigating the local roadways. The primary thoroughfare is Route 901, which winds through the town and connects to the more significant Route 61. Route 61 serves as a crucial artery, providing access to Pottsville, the county seat, and other regional hubs.

Driving to Schuylkill Health System – Schuylkill Campus in Pottsville, the closest major hospital, typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive involves traveling south on Route 901, merging onto Route 61 South. The hospital is easily accessible from Route 61, making this a relatively straightforward journey.

For specialized care or access to a broader range of services, residents may need to travel further afield. Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg, located about 20-25 minutes away via Route 901 and then Route 443, offers a comprehensive suite of medical services. This route, while longer, remains manageable for most residents.

Heading towards the Lehigh Valley region for advanced care, the drive times increase considerably. Accessing hospitals in Allentown, such as Lehigh Valley Hospital – 17th Street, can take upwards of an hour, involving travel on Route 61, Interstate 78, and various local roads. This longer commute highlights the importance of considering the potential time commitment when seeking specialized medical attention.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Mar Lin are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout Schuylkill County. However, the frequency and routes serving Mar Lin are limited.

STS Route 30, which runs between Pottsville and Ashland, passes through Mar Lin. The schedule, however, is infrequent, with limited service during evenings and weekends. This makes it difficult for residents to rely on public transit for routine medical appointments or urgent care needs. The ADA accessibility of these buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities.

Furthermore, the lack of direct routes to major medical facilities outside of Pottsville necessitates multiple transfers, extending travel times and adding complexity to the journey. The lack of convenient public transit underscores the importance of exploring alternative **transportation** options.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability may be limited compared to more urban areas. Residents can potentially utilize these services for trips to medical appointments. However, the cost and reliability of these services can vary, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services provide a critical lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, offering services ranging from basic ambulatory transport to wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require advance booking and may have associated costs.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands service the area. Local providers, such as Schuylkill County Ambulance, provide emergency and non-emergency medical transport. National companies like American Medical Response (AMR) also operate in the region. These services are vital for individuals who cannot drive themselves or rely on public transit.

**Overall Health Score Implications:**

The overall health score for Mar Lin, PA (17951) reflects a mixed picture regarding healthcare access. While the proximity to Schuylkill Health System provides a degree of convenience, the limited **transportation** options, particularly public transit, present significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, combined with potentially lengthy travel times to specialized care facilities, can negatively impact healthcare access.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options offers alternative solutions, but their cost and availability can be barriers for some residents. The limited public transit service and the geographical constraints of the region create a situation where **healthcare access** is heavily dependent on individual circumstances and mobility.

**Recommendations:**

Improving healthcare access in Mar Lin requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transit options, including increased frequency and expanded routes, would significantly benefit residents. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also prove beneficial.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of available medical transport services and assisting residents in navigating the application process for financial assistance programs could improve access for vulnerable populations. A community-wide effort to address these challenges is crucial to ensuring that all residents of Mar Lin have timely and convenient access to the healthcare they need. This information is essential for anyone considering **moving to Mar Lin**, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.