17967, Ringtown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17967, Ringtown, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.80 percent of residents in 17967 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 15.39 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Ringtown, PA (ZIP Code 17967)**

Ringtown, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and the practical realities of healthcare access. Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 17967 requires a deep dive into the intricate relationship between transportation and healthcare access. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for anyone considering moving to Ringtown.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Ringtown is, undeniably, the automobile. The primary thoroughfare, **Interstate 81**, serves as the major artery connecting Ringtown to larger population centers and, crucially, to hospitals and specialized medical facilities. A drive to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a regional powerhouse, clocks in at approximately one hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic. This distance, while manageable, underscores the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for delays due to weather or accidents.

Local roads, such as **PA-54** and **PA-443**, provide access to smaller clinics and primary care physicians in nearby towns like Ashland and Mahanoy City. These routes, though shorter in distance, can be winding and prone to delays, particularly during inclement weather. The condition of these roads, often subject to seasonal maintenance, adds another layer of complexity to the commute.

Public transportation options in Ringtown are limited. Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides some bus routes. However, these routes are infrequent and primarily serve the more populated areas of the county. The STS routes that might touch Ringtown or nearby communities are limited in their frequency and may not directly serve medical facilities. ADA accessibility features on these buses are present, but the overall impact on healthcare access for residents of Ringtown is minimal.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a presence in the region, but their availability in Ringtown is inconsistent. The rural nature of the area and the limited demand mean that wait times for a ride can be significant, and the cost can be prohibitive for regular medical appointments. This limitation poses a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

Medical transport services, designed specifically to address the needs of patients with mobility limitations, are available but must be arranged in advance. Companies like MedExpress and others provide non-emergency medical transportation. However, these services often require pre-booking and may involve longer wait times. This is a vital resource for those needing assistance, but the availability and cost are factors that must be considered.

Healthcare access in Ringtown, therefore, depends heavily on personal transportation. The drive times to larger medical centers, while not excessively long, require careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The scarcity of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for individuals without access to a personal vehicle.

The overall health score for residents of Ringtown, considering transportation and healthcare access, is moderate. The presence of major highways like Interstate 81 provides a crucial link to regional medical centers. However, the limitations in public transportation, ride-sharing, and the dependence on personal vehicles for most residents present challenges.

For those considering moving to Ringtown, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Individuals who can drive and have access to a reliable vehicle will find healthcare access relatively manageable. However, those who rely on public transportation or ride-sharing services may face significant obstacles.

The health score is also impacted by the availability of local healthcare providers. The presence of primary care physicians and clinics in nearby towns is a positive factor, reducing the need for long-distance travel for routine medical care. However, the availability of specialized medical services in the immediate vicinity of Ringtown is limited, necessitating travel to larger medical centers.

The economic factors also play a role. The cost of maintaining a vehicle, including fuel, insurance, and maintenance, can be a significant burden for some residents. The cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation can also add to the financial strain.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Ringtown residents reflects a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges. While the presence of major highways and local clinics provides some advantages, the overall health score remains moderate. Prospective residents must carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements before making a move to Ringtown. The availability of healthcare access is a critical consideration for the overall well-being of the community.