17985, Zion Grove, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17985, Zion Grove, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.88 percent of residents in 17985 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 18.61 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Zion Grove (ZIP Code 17985)

This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for access to healthcare within the Zion Grove ZIP code (17985), focusing on transportation options and their impact on residents’ ability to reach medical facilities. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options, offering a comprehensive view for anyone considering moving to Zion Grove or seeking to understand the challenges of healthcare access within the community.

Zion Grove, nestled in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, presents a unique landscape. While the area offers a tranquil environment, its relative isolation and reliance on personal vehicles significantly shape healthcare access. The "Overall Health Score" reflects this reality, providing a nuanced understanding of the transportation challenges and opportunities.

**Drive Time Analysis: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Zion Grove is the personal vehicle. The drive time to medical facilities is a crucial factor in determining the "Overall Health Score." This analysis considers the distance to various healthcare providers, including hospitals, urgent care centers, primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies.

The primary thoroughfare for accessing healthcare is Route 901. This road serves as a critical artery, connecting Zion Grove to larger towns like Ashland and Frackville, where many medical services are concentrated. Traveling east on Route 901 leads to Ashland, approximately a 10-15 minute drive. Ashland offers a range of primary care physicians and pharmacies.

Venturing further, residents often travel on Route 61, a major highway that provides access to larger medical centers. Heading south on Route 61, a journey of approximately 20-30 minutes, will bring residents to Pottsville, the county seat. Pottsville is home to Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital, a comprehensive medical facility offering a wide array of specialized services.

North of Zion Grove, Route 54 provides access to Mount Carmel, a journey of approximately 30-40 minutes. This area offers additional healthcare options, including smaller clinics and specialized medical practices. The drive times, while manageable, can be significantly impacted by traffic, weather conditions, and the condition of the roads, particularly during the winter months. These factors contribute to a slightly lower "Overall Health Score" regarding drive time.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Zion Grove are limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides some bus routes within the county, but their service to and from Zion Grove is infrequent and may not be directly accessible to all residents.

Route 30, operated by STS, is one of the few routes that serves the general area. However, its schedule may not align with the needs of individuals requiring medical appointments. The route may have limited service on weekends and evenings, further restricting access. The lack of frequent service necessitates careful planning and can create significant barriers for those without access to a personal vehicle.

ADA accessibility is a critical factor for those with disabilities or mobility challenges. STS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, but the limited route coverage and potential for long wait times can still pose challenges. The absence of a dedicated medical transport service within the public transit system further impacts the "Overall Health Score."

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can be significant factors. The availability of drivers in a rural area like Zion Grove may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for individuals with limited incomes or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a crucial role for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring specialized assistance. Ambulance services are readily available in emergencies, but NEMT options may be limited. These services typically require pre-booking and can be costly. The availability of NEMT providers and their coverage area directly impact the "Overall Health Score."

**Pharmacy Access: A Critical Component**

Access to pharmacies is another essential factor. Zion Grove has limited local pharmacy options, and residents often rely on pharmacies located in neighboring towns. This necessitates travel, adding to the overall commute time. The availability of prescription delivery services can help mitigate this challenge, but not all pharmacies offer this service.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

The "Overall Health Score" for Zion Grove (17985) reflects a mixed picture. While drive times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles creates challenges for those without access to a car or who are unable to drive. Public transit options are limited and infrequent, and ride-sharing services may not always be readily available.

The "Overall Health Score" is impacted by the availability of medical transport services, pharmacy access, and the potential for delays due to traffic or weather conditions. The score is further influenced by the distance to specialized medical services and the frequency of appointments required.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

Improving the "Overall Health Score" requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transit options, particularly with routes that directly serve Zion Grove and connect to major medical centers, would significantly improve access. Enhancing the frequency and reliability of existing bus routes would be a crucial step.

Promoting ride-sharing services and providing subsidies or incentives for low-income residents could also help. Supporting the development of local healthcare facilities, such as primary care clinics or pharmacies, would reduce the need for residents to travel long distances.

For anyone considering moving to Zion Grove, it is essential to carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Individuals with mobility issues or those who rely on public transit should carefully evaluate the challenges of accessing healthcare in the area. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a valuable tool for making informed decisions about healthcare access and the overall quality of life in Zion Grove.

The "Overall Health Score" for Zion Grove, therefore, is moderate. While residents can access healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The score highlights the need for continued efforts to improve transportation options and healthcare access for all residents.