17954, Minersville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17954, Minersville, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.37 percent of residents in 17954 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 8.71 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Minersville, PA (ZIP Code 17954)

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its access to essential services, and chief among these is healthcare. For residents of Minersville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, the ability to reach doctors, hospitals, and specialists significantly impacts their overall well-being. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for the 17954 ZIP code, focusing on the critical element of healthcare accessibility, particularly the ease of transportation to medical facilities. This is especially pertinent for those considering moving to Minersville, as it's a crucial factor in their quality of life.

The primary challenge in assessing healthcare access in Minersville lies in its relative remoteness. While offering a charming small-town atmosphere, the community is not directly served by major metropolitan areas. This geographic reality dictates that residents rely heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The mountainous terrain further complicates travel, influencing drive times and route options.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most direct route to significant healthcare facilities outside of Minersville often involves navigating the Pennsylvania Route 901, a vital artery that connects the town to the larger regional network. This road, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near intersections and in areas with commercial activity. Heading east on 901, one can connect to Interstate 81, a major north-south thoroughfare.

Interstate 81 offers access to larger hospitals and specialized medical centers in Pottsville, approximately 10 miles away. The drive to Pottsville typically takes between 15 and 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This is the most common destination for Minersville residents seeking comprehensive medical care. The route is relatively straightforward, but the potential for delays on I-81, particularly during inclement weather, should be considered.

Traveling south on Route 901, with a connection to Route 61, will lead to Reading and the Reading Hospital, approximately 45-55 miles away. While a longer journey, the Reading Hospital offers a broader range of specialized services. The drive time is significantly longer, typically between one and one and a half hours, making it less convenient for routine appointments.

For those seeking specialized care in the Lehigh Valley, the journey is more demanding. Route 901 connects to Interstate 81, and then to I-78, which will take you to Allentown, a drive of about 70 miles. This trip can take up to two hours, depending on traffic. The distance and travel time significantly impact the overall health score, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical attention.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Minersville are limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides some bus routes within the county, but these routes are infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities. The STS does offer some routes that connect to Pottsville, but the schedules may not align with the needs of patients requiring specific appointment times.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration. The STS strives to provide accessible transportation, but the frequency and coverage of these services may be restricted. Individuals with mobility limitations may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare via public transit, which can substantially impact their health outcomes.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Minersville area, but their availability can be inconsistent. The relatively low population density may result in longer wait times and potentially higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability. This can be a barrier for those without access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services are available in the region. Companies like MedStar and various local ambulance services offer non-emergency medical transport. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive, especially for frequent trips.

**Overall Health Score:**

Based on the factors outlined above, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Minersville, PA (17954) is moderately impacted by transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transportation options, presents a barrier to accessing healthcare, especially for those with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive.

The drive times to Pottsville, while relatively short, can be affected by traffic and weather conditions. The longer travel times to Reading and the Lehigh Valley significantly impact the overall score, particularly for those requiring specialized care. The inconsistent availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transport further contribute to the challenges.

The absence of a robust public transportation system exacerbates these issues. The limited bus routes and potential accessibility concerns for individuals with disabilities further limit the ability to access healthcare. The overall score reflects the need for improved transportation infrastructure and services to ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents of Minersville.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Minersville, several strategies could be implemented.

* **Enhance Public Transportation:** Increase the frequency and coverage of bus routes, particularly those connecting to major medical facilities in Pottsville and Reading. Ensure all buses are ADA-compliant and provide accessible routes.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing Partnerships:** Collaborate with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted fares or subsidized transportation options for medical appointments.
* **Expand Medical Transportation Services:** Increase the availability and affordability of non-emergency medical transport services, particularly for those with limited mobility or financial constraints.
* **Promote Telehealth:** Encourage the adoption of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for routine check-ups and follow-up care.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Maintain and improve the condition of roads, including Route 901 and Interstate 81, to ensure safe and efficient travel.

By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, Minersville can improve its "Overall Health Score" and enhance the well-being of its residents, making it a more attractive place to live and thrive, especially for those considering moving to Minersville. The ability to easily access healthcare is a fundamental aspect of a healthy community, and it is crucial to prioritize improvements in transportation and healthcare access to ensure that all residents have the opportunity to live long and healthy lives.