17961, Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17961, Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.17 percent of residents in 17961 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 1.55 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Orwigsburg, PA (ZIP Code 17961)

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access healthcare. This comprehensive analysis, focusing on ZIP code 17961 (Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania), evaluates the ease and efficiency of **transportation** options available to residents seeking medical attention. We’ll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing an "Overall Health Score" that reflects the accessibility of care for those considering **moving to Orwigsburg** or already residing within its boundaries. The score considers the time, cost, and convenience associated with reaching various healthcare providers, offering a critical perspective on the community's health infrastructure.

Orwigsburg, nestled in Schuylkill County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The town itself is relatively small, but its surrounding area is characterized by a mix of rural and suburban environments. This geographic diversity significantly impacts the **healthcare access** landscape, making transportation a crucial determinant of health outcomes. The analysis will consider the specific routes, services, and challenges faced by residents navigating the journey to medical appointments.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

For many Orwigsburg residents, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. The town's location offers several routes to access healthcare facilities. Key highways, such as Interstate 81 (I-81), provide rapid connections to larger medical centers in nearby cities like Pottsville and Reading. However, I-81 can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak hours, potentially increasing travel times.

Primary access to Pottsville is via Route 61, a major artery that funnels traffic through the area. While Route 61 offers direct access to several healthcare facilities, it can also be congested, particularly during rush hour. Other roads, such as Route 443, offer alternative routes, but these often involve winding roads and may add to travel time.

The drive time to healthcare facilities is a critical factor in the Overall Health Score. We will consider the average travel times to various hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices, taking into account potential traffic delays. The score will be adjusted to reflect the impact of these delays on the overall accessibility of care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transit options in Orwigsburg are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service in the county, but its routes and frequency are limited, particularly in rural areas. The availability of routes and their frequency will be assessed, with a focus on their relevance to healthcare access.

The STS routes serving Orwigsburg will be specifically examined. These routes, including their numbers, schedules, and frequency, will be evaluated for their practicality in reaching healthcare facilities. The analysis will also consider the accessibility features of the buses, such as wheelchair lifts and ramps, to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The limited public transit options in Orwigsburg contribute to a lower Overall Health Score, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. The lack of frequent and direct routes to healthcare facilities can create significant barriers to care, especially for individuals with mobility issues or chronic health conditions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services in Orwigsburg can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The analysis will consider the reliability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services for accessing healthcare facilities.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. Several brands operate in the area. These services can be particularly beneficial for those with disabilities or limited mobility. The analysis will consider the availability, cost, and coverage area of these services.

The presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services can improve the Overall Health Score by providing alternative transportation options. However, the effectiveness of these services depends on their availability, affordability, and reliability. The analysis will evaluate the impact of these services on the overall accessibility of healthcare in Orwigsburg.

**Healthcare Facilities and Their Accessibility:**

The location and accessibility of healthcare facilities are essential components of the Overall Health Score. The analysis will consider the distance and travel time to various hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices in the surrounding area. Key facilities include Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg, as well as hospitals and clinics in Pottsville and Reading.

The analysis will also consider the availability of specific medical services, such as primary care, specialist appointments, and emergency care. The proximity of these services to Orwigsburg residents will be a key factor in determining the Overall Health Score. The score will reflect the ease with which residents can access the care they need.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Orwigsburg, PA (ZIP code 17961) will be determined by weighing the factors discussed above. The score will reflect the relative ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare facilities based on the available transportation options. The score will consider the drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, medical transport options, and the location of healthcare facilities.

Several factors can influence the Overall Health Score. Traffic congestion on I-81 and Route 61 can significantly impact drive times. The limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing services can create barriers to care for those without personal vehicles. The cost of transportation, including gas, tolls, and ride-sharing fares, can also be a factor.

The Overall Health Score will provide a valuable tool for assessing the healthcare access landscape in Orwigsburg. It will inform residents about the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing medical care. The score can also be used to identify areas for improvement, such as expanding public transit options or promoting ride-sharing services.

For individuals **moving to Orwigsburg**, the Overall Health Score will provide critical insights into the community's health infrastructure. It will help them assess the ease of accessing healthcare facilities and make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. This information is vital for ensuring that residents can receive the care they need, promoting a healthier and more vibrant community. The score serves as a crucial indicator of the community's commitment to the well-being of its residents.