17953, Middleport, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17953, Middleport, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.12 percent of residents in 17953 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 5.01 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17953 (Middleport, PA)**

This comprehensive analysis assesses the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of Middleport, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17953), considering various transportation options. The evaluation culminates in an "Overall Health Score," reflecting the ease or difficulty individuals face in reaching medical care. This score is crucial for those considering moving to Middleport, as transportation directly impacts healthcare access and overall well-being.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Middleport is its location. Nestled in Schuylkill County, the borough is surrounded by rolling hills and farmlands. While offering a peaceful, rural atmosphere, this setting presents challenges for transportation, especially for those without personal vehicles.

**Drive-Time Analysis**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare appointments in Middleport is personal vehicle. The primary roadways serving the area are Pennsylvania Route 895 and Pennsylvania Route 443. These roads offer direct routes to larger towns and cities where hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located.

Traveling east on Route 895 leads to Pottsville, the county seat, approximately a 15-20 minute drive. This route provides access to Schuylkill Medical Center–East Norwegian Street, offering a range of services including emergency care, inpatient care, and various specialty clinics.

Heading west on Route 895 provides access to Pine Grove, about a 10-15 minute drive. Pine Grove is home to a few primary care practices and other medical facilities.

Route 443, running north-south, connects Middleport to other communities. Driving south on Route 443 leads to Cressona and eventually to Interstate 81, opening access to more extensive healthcare options in Harrisburg and other major cities. The drive to Harrisburg typically takes about an hour, depending on traffic.

The drive times mentioned are estimates and can vary depending on traffic, weather conditions, and time of day. Rush hour and inclement weather can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting the timely access to medical care.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in Middleport are limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service within Schuylkill County. However, the frequency of service and the routes available in Middleport are limited, making it a less viable option for many residents, particularly those with mobility limitations.

STS Route 4, for example, connects Pottsville with Tamaqua, passing through Middleport. However, the schedule may not align with the needs of those seeking healthcare appointments.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. While STS strives to provide accessible transportation, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles on specific routes should be confirmed when planning travel.

The lack of frequent and convenient public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their presence is less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments can be risky.

Medical transportation services are available, catering specifically to individuals requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including First Transit and Senior Transportation.

These services, while valuable, can be expensive, and their availability should be verified in advance.

**Healthcare Access and Socioeconomic Factors**

The affordability of transportation and the availability of healthcare services are intertwined with socioeconomic factors. Residents with lower incomes may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare due to the costs of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fees.

The availability of health insurance also plays a critical role. Individuals without insurance may be less likely to seek medical care due to the associated costs, further exacerbating health disparities.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Middleport (ZIP Code 17953) is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the limitations in public transportation and the dependence on personal vehicles create challenges for some.

The score is also influenced by socioeconomic factors and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

* **Enhance Public Transportation:** Increase the frequency and coverage of STS bus routes, particularly those serving Middleport. Advocate for more ADA-accessible vehicles and improved route planning to better serve the needs of residents.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** Encourage the use of ride-sharing services and medical transportation companies by providing information and potentially offering subsidies for low-income residents.
* **Support Community Health Initiatives:** Facilitate community health programs to promote health education, preventive care, and early detection of diseases.
* **Address Socioeconomic Disparities:** Implement programs to address poverty and improve access to health insurance, thereby ensuring equitable healthcare access for all residents.

By addressing these recommendations, Middleport can improve its "Overall Health Score" and create a healthier community for all its residents. The decision to move to Middleport should include a thorough assessment of individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements.