17982, Tuscarora, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17982, Tuscarora, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.45 percent of residents in 17982 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.66 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 ZIP Code 17982

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 17982, encompassing the Tuscarora area, necessitates a deep dive into the critical component of healthcare access. A significant factor influencing this access is the ease and efficiency of transportation. This analysis considers the availability and limitations of various modes, from personal vehicles traversing highways and roads to public transit, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. Understanding these elements paints a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking medical care in this specific geographical area.

The cornerstone of transportation in Tuscarora, Pennsylvania, is the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on their cars for daily commutes, including those to healthcare facilities. The primary arteries facilitating this movement are Interstate 81 (I-81), a major north-south thoroughfare, and Pennsylvania Route 901 (PA-901), a vital east-west connector. Access to I-81 is crucial, offering relatively quick routes to larger medical centers located in Pottsville and Harrisburg. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

PA-901 provides a more direct route to local healthcare providers, including family practices and urgent care facilities. The condition of these roads, subject to weather-related disruptions, is a factor. Snow and ice during winter months can render travel treacherous, potentially isolating residents and delaying access to critical medical attention. The distance to healthcare facilities, coupled with road conditions, directly impacts the overall health score, influencing the timeliness of care.

Public transportation options in 17982 are limited, presenting a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service, but the routes and frequency may not adequately serve all areas within the zip code. Riders must consult the STS website for route schedules and real-time updates. ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities. While STS strives to provide accessible services, the availability of wheelchair-accessible buses and the accessibility of bus stops vary.

The lack of robust public transit necessitates considering ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. While these options offer on-demand transportation, their availability and cost are variables. Ride-sharing services may be limited in rural areas like Tuscarora, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The expense of these services can also be a barrier, especially for those with limited financial resources. The cost of transportation should be weighed against the cost of healthcare, influencing the affordability of care.

Specialized medical transport services play a crucial role, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring ambulance transport. Med-Trans Corporation and other medical transport providers operate in the region, offering services for non-emergency and emergency situations. These services are essential for patients needing to travel to specialized medical facilities or for those unable to drive themselves. However, the availability of these services, particularly during emergencies, and the associated costs, are critical factors affecting healthcare access.

Evaluating the overall health score requires considering the location of healthcare facilities relative to 17982. The closest hospitals, such as Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg and Schuylkill Medical Center in Pottsville, are accessible via I-81 and PA-901. Drive times vary depending on traffic and the specific location within the zip code, but average commute times can range from 20 to 45 minutes. The distance to these facilities underscores the reliance on personal vehicles and the importance of reliable transportation.

The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within a reasonable distance is another crucial element. While Tuscarora may have some local healthcare providers, residents often need to travel to Pottsville or other nearby towns for specialized care. The availability of appointments and the waiting times to see a healthcare professional also affect the health score.

The affordability of healthcare is intrinsically linked to transportation costs. The expenses associated with driving, ride-sharing, or medical transport can significantly impact an individual's ability to access care. Those with limited financial resources may delay or forgo necessary medical attention due to transportation costs. This financial burden, when combined with the physical challenges of travel, influences the overall health score.

The demographics of 17982, including age, income levels, and the prevalence of chronic diseases, further influence the health score. Older adults and individuals with chronic conditions may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare due to mobility limitations and the need for frequent medical appointments. The socioeconomic status of the population also plays a role, as lower-income individuals may face greater barriers to transportation and healthcare.

For those considering moving to Tuscarora, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is paramount. Researching the location of healthcare facilities, assessing the availability of transportation options, and understanding potential costs are essential steps. Careful consideration of these factors will provide a more realistic assessment of the healthcare environment.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of 17982 is significantly influenced by the availability, affordability, and accessibility of transportation to healthcare. While personal vehicles are the primary mode of transport, the limitations of public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services present challenges. Addressing these challenges through improved public transit options, promoting ride-sharing programs, and providing financial assistance for transportation costs would significantly improve healthcare access and, consequently, enhance the overall health score for the community. A comprehensive strategy focusing on these elements will ensure that residents can readily access the medical care they need.