17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.03 percent of residents in 17965 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 4.56 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Port Carbon, PA (ZIP Code 17965)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Port Carbon, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17965) necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. A critical factor influencing health outcomes is the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities. This write-up explores the transportation landscape, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and alternative mobility solutions, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare access for those residing in and considering moving to Port Carbon.

Port Carbon, nestled in Schuylkill County, presents a unique challenge. Its location, while offering scenic beauty, impacts healthcare access. The town's infrastructure is primarily geared towards personal vehicle transportation. This dependence on cars shapes the healthcare journey for its residents. The following analysis considers the primary methods of transport, providing insights into the overall health score.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads to Wellness**

The cornerstone of transportation in Port Carbon is the personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities are a significant determinant of healthcare access. The primary arteries for travel include **Route 209**, **Route 54**, and **Interstate 81**. The proximity to these roadways is a boon, but the distances to hospitals and specialized care centers must be considered.

The closest major hospital, **Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital** in Orwigsburg, is approximately a 20-25 minute drive via **Route 443** and **Route 61**. This drive is generally straightforward, though traffic can be a factor during peak hours, potentially extending the journey. For specialized care, residents often travel to larger facilities.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill South** in Pottsville is a shorter drive, around 10-15 minutes via **Route 209** or **Route 61**. This facility offers a range of services, including emergency care, which is crucial for urgent health needs. However, access to more specialized care may still require travel further afield.

Traveling to **Reading Hospital** in Reading, PA, a facility offering a broader range of specialized services, requires a significantly longer commute, typically around 45-60 minutes via **Interstate 78** and **Route 61**. This extended travel time can be a barrier for those requiring regular appointments or facing urgent medical situations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Port Carbon are limited. The **Schuylkill Transportation System (STS)** provides bus service throughout the county, but its routes and schedules may not offer convenient access to all healthcare facilities. The STS operates fixed-route buses and demand-response services.

**Route 30** is the primary route serving Port Carbon. This route connects the town to Pottsville and other surrounding communities. While it provides a connection to healthcare facilities in Pottsville, it may not be a viable option for those needing to reach hospitals in Orwigsburg or Reading due to the limited frequency of service and longer travel times.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit. STS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible services may vary depending on the route and time of day.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Port Carbon area, but their reliability and availability can vary. While they offer a convenient alternative to driving, the cost can be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer another option. Companies like **CareRide** and **Medical Transportation Management (MTM)** provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services are often used by individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, availability and cost can be factors to consider.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score**

The overall health score for Port Carbon residents reflects the interplay of various factors. The reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access, coupled with the limited public transit options, can create challenges for those without access to a car or those facing mobility limitations. The longer drive times to specialized care facilities, particularly to Reading, can also negatively impact the health score.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation offers alternative options, but their cost and availability may limit their accessibility for all residents. The presence of a hospital in Pottsville, a short drive away, improves the health score, providing access to emergency care and a range of basic medical services.

**Moving to Port Carbon: A Transportation Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Port Carbon, a careful assessment of transportation needs is essential. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should consider the limitations of the STS bus routes and the potential challenges of accessing healthcare facilities.

For those who can drive, the drive times to local hospitals and specialized care centers should be factored into the decision-making process. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation can provide additional options, but the associated costs should be considered.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

The overall health score for Port Carbon, in the context of healthcare access, is moderate. While the town benefits from proximity to a local hospital in Pottsville and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges for some residents.

The ability to drive and the availability of a personal vehicle are critical for healthcare access in Port Carbon. As the community evolves, efforts to improve public transit options and expand the availability of affordable medical transportation could significantly improve the overall health score and enhance the well-being of its residents. This is particularly important for those considering moving to Port Carbon, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate healthcare.