18104, Allentown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18104, Allentown, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.64 percent of residents in 18104 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital with a distance of 2.42 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Allentown, PA (ZIP Code 18104)

Understanding the ease with which residents of Allentown, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 18104 can access healthcare is crucial for assessing their overall health and well-being. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score," considering transportation options, drive times, public transit accessibility, and the availability of ride-share and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture, offering insights for current residents and those considering moving to Allentown.

The score, based on a qualitative assessment, considers the relative ease or difficulty of reaching various healthcare facilities. Factors like travel time, mode of transportation, and the availability of accessible options for individuals with disabilities are all weighed. The score is not a definitive numerical value but a nuanced evaluation of the challenges and advantages faced by residents.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in 18104. The most significant roadways impacting healthcare access include the I-78, the Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-476), and major arteries like Hamilton Boulevard (Route 222), and Lehigh Street.

Drive times vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day. For instance, reaching Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, a major regional hospital, from central 18104 can take between 15-30 minutes during off-peak hours. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily stretch to 45 minutes or longer, particularly on congested sections of I-78 or Hamilton Boulevard.

Access to St. Luke's Hospital-Allentown, located closer to the heart of the city, typically involves shorter drive times, averaging 5-15 minutes. However, the density of the city streets and potential for traffic congestion can still impact travel times. The presence of numerous traffic lights and intersections along roadways like Hamilton Street and 12th Street can contribute to delays.

The availability of parking at healthcare facilities is another crucial consideration. Many hospitals and clinics offer parking garages, but these can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours. This can add to the stress and time commitment associated with healthcare visits.

**Public Transportation:**

LANTA (Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority) provides public bus services within the Lehigh Valley, offering an alternative to driving. Several LANTA routes serve the 18104 ZIP code, connecting residents to various healthcare facilities.

Route 102, for example, travels along Hamilton Street, providing access to several medical offices and clinics. Route 213 serves the Lehigh Street corridor, offering connections to hospitals and medical centers. Route 301 provides service to the Allentown Transportation Center, which offers connections to other routes and regional transportation options.

While LANTA offers a valuable service, its accessibility is a critical factor in the Overall Health Score. ADA-accessible buses are available on all routes, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the system. However, frequency and route coverage can be limitations. Some routes may have limited service during evenings and weekends, potentially restricting access to healthcare appointments outside of regular business hours.

Furthermore, the total travel time via public transportation can be significantly longer than driving. This is due to factors such as waiting times at bus stops, transfers between routes, and the overall route distance. This can be a significant barrier for individuals with mobility issues or those with limited time.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in the Allentown area, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive.

The availability of ride-sharing services has improved healthcare access for many residents, providing a flexible and on-demand transportation option. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services are also available, specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. These services often cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility or have specific medical requirements.

Medical transport services, like MedStar and others, offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to ensure safe and comfortable transportation to and from healthcare appointments. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, which may not always be feasible in urgent situations.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in 18104 is moderately positive. While residents have access to various transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, several factors influence the overall ease of access.

Driving offers the most flexibility but is subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Public transportation provides an affordable alternative, but its limitations in terms of frequency, route coverage, and travel time can pose challenges. Ride-sharing services offer convenience but can be costly. Medical transport services are specialized but may not be accessible to everyone.

The availability of ADA-accessible transportation options is a significant positive aspect, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access healthcare. However, the overall accessibility of healthcare in 18104 could be improved by increasing the frequency of public transit routes, expanding the coverage of ride-sharing services, and providing financial assistance for transportation costs for low-income residents.

For individuals considering moving to Allentown, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. While the city offers a range of healthcare facilities, the ability to access them efficiently and affordably is a key factor in overall health and well-being. Careful consideration of transportation needs and available options is essential when making a decision about where to live.

In conclusion, the Overall Health Score reflects a mixed picture. While healthcare facilities are generally accessible, the reliance on driving, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services create challenges for some residents. Addressing these transportation barriers is essential to improving healthcare access and promoting the overall health of the 18104 community.