17959, New Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17959, New Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.91 percent of residents in 17959 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 4.84 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17959 (New Philadelphia, PA)

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access essential services, especially healthcare. This analysis delves into the accessibility of medical facilities for residents of ZIP Code 17959, New Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, evaluating the various transportation options available and their impact on the overall health score. This score, encompassing factors like drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing services, paints a picture of healthcare access for those considering moving to New Philadelphia.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in 17959 is the availability of personal vehicles. The landscape of New Philadelphia, nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, favors car travel. The town is directly accessible via **Route 209** and **Route 901**, both of which are vital arteries for residents. These roads connect to the larger network, including **Interstate 81**, which offers regional access. Drive times to medical facilities, therefore, become a crucial factor in determining the overall health score.

For those seeking routine care, the immediate vicinity of New Philadelphia offers several options. Family practitioners and general physicians are often located within a 5-10 minute drive, primarily along **Route 209** and in neighboring towns. Specialized care, however, often necessitates travel to larger medical centers. The Schuylkill Medical Center – South Jackson Street, in Pottsville, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via **Route 209** and **Route 61**. This facility provides a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, specialized clinics, and surgical procedures.

The drive to larger hospitals like Lehigh Valley Hospital – Schuylkill East Norwegian Street, also in Pottsville, typically takes around 20-25 minutes. Further afield, the Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg, accessible via **Route 61**, requires a drive of approximately 30-40 minutes. These longer travel times can significantly impact the health score, especially for individuals requiring frequent appointments or facing medical emergencies.

Public transportation, while present, plays a limited role in healthcare access in 17959. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout the county. However, the frequency and coverage of these routes are limited, especially on evenings and weekends. Route 30, for instance, connects Pottsville to Tamaqua, passing through New Philadelphia. While this route offers a potential link to healthcare facilities, the schedule may not align with all needs. Accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts, are available on STS buses, ensuring ADA compliance.

The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft is another consideration. While these services are generally available in the area, their reliability and cost can be significant barriers. Demand can fluctuate, and wait times can be longer in less populated areas. The cost of these services, particularly for frequent medical appointments, can quickly become a financial burden.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, availability and insurance coverage for these services can vary.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 17959 reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of local medical facilities and relatively short drive times for routine care are positive factors, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides alternative options, but their reliability, cost, and coverage need careful consideration.

For individuals considering moving to New Philadelphia, the health score emphasizes the importance of assessing their individual transportation needs. Those who rely on public transit or have limited mobility may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. For those with personal vehicles, the drive times to regional medical centers should be factored into their decision-making process.

The health score is not static; it is a dynamic measure that can be improved through community initiatives. Increased public transportation frequency, expanded ride-sharing coverage, and greater access to medical transportation services would all contribute to a higher health score. Furthermore, initiatives to promote senior-friendly transportation options and support for those with disabilities would enhance the overall accessibility of healthcare.

The health score also considers the impact of socioeconomic factors. Individuals with lower incomes may struggle to afford transportation costs, creating a disparity in healthcare access. The availability of financial assistance programs and community resources can help mitigate these challenges.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in 17959 reflects the interplay of various transportation options and their impact on the community's well-being. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services create a nuanced picture. For those considering moving to New Philadelphia, a careful assessment of their individual transportation needs and an understanding of the available resources is crucial to ensure adequate healthcare access. Improving the health score requires a collaborative effort from the community, healthcare providers, and local authorities to enhance transportation options and address socioeconomic disparities.