18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.95 percent of residents in 18221 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 4.90 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Drifton, PA (ZIP Code 18221)

This assessment delves into the intricate relationship between transportation and healthcare access within the Drifton, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 18221. Understanding the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is crucial for evaluating their overall health and well-being. This report examines the available transportation options, including private vehicles, public transit, and ride-sharing services, considering drive times, route accessibility, and the presence of services catering to individuals with disabilities. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" reflecting the challenges and opportunities in accessing healthcare within this specific community.

The landscape of Drifton, nestled within the larger Hazleton area, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. While a rural charm pervades the region, the availability of diverse transportation options is limited. Residents often rely heavily on personal vehicles, which dictates much of their healthcare access. The primary roadways serving the area are crucial to any commute, with the ever-present **Interstate 80** acting as the main artery. **Route 93** and **Route 309** provide vital connections to local towns and medical facilities.

Drive times to healthcare providers vary considerably depending on the destination and the time of day. A trip to a general practitioner in Hazleton, roughly 10 miles away, might take 20 to 30 minutes via **Route 93**, assuming moderate traffic. The commute to a specialist in Wilkes-Barre, about 30 miles distant, can easily extend to 45 minutes to an hour, especially during peak travel times, using **Interstate 81** or **Route 309**. Emergency situations necessitate swift transport, making proximity to a hospital a critical factor in the "Overall Health Score."

Public transportation options in Drifton are limited. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service, but routes within and around 18221 are sparse. The LCTA operates a few routes that pass near the area. These routes are not always directly accessible from Drifton, requiring a drive to a designated pick-up point. Information on specific route numbers and schedules is crucial, as is understanding the presence of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features, such as ramps and accessible seating. The availability of these features is essential for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Hazleton area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability and affordability can vary, particularly in rural locations. The cost of a ride to a medical appointment can be a significant barrier for some residents, especially those with limited incomes. The reliability of these services is also a concern, as wait times can be unpredictable, and the availability of drivers may be limited during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those who require assistance with mobility. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare are among the providers operating in the area. These services typically require prior scheduling and may have specific eligibility requirements.

The "Overall Health Score" for 18221 is directly impacted by the relative lack of diverse transportation options. Reliance on personal vehicles makes healthcare access vulnerable to factors like vehicle maintenance costs, fuel prices, and the ability to drive. The limited public transit options and the potential cost and availability of ride-sharing services further complicate the landscape. The presence of medical transportation services offers a crucial lifeline for some, but their availability and the ability to navigate the system are essential considerations.

The challenges of **healthcare access** in Drifton are not merely logistical; they can profoundly affect the health outcomes of residents. Delays in accessing medical care can lead to the worsening of existing conditions, missed preventative screenings, and increased healthcare costs. Individuals without reliable transportation may be less likely to seek medical attention, potentially leading to undiagnosed illnesses and preventable complications.

For individuals **moving to Drifton**, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully consider the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential costs associated with accessing medical care. The "Overall Health Score" is a valuable tool for assessing the community's health infrastructure and identifying areas for improvement.

Improvements in the "Overall Health Score" could come from several directions. Expanding public transportation routes and increasing their frequency would significantly enhance healthcare access. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments could alleviate the financial burden on low-income residents. Promoting the availability of medical transportation services and streamlining the referral process could also improve access.

The integration of telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, could mitigate some of the transportation challenges. Telehealth is not a complete solution, as it doesn't replace the need for in-person examinations and treatments, but it can supplement existing healthcare services.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a static measure; it evolves with changes in the community and its infrastructure. Regular assessments are necessary to track progress and identify emerging challenges. The score should be used to inform decision-making related to transportation planning, healthcare resource allocation, and community health initiatives.

The "Overall Health Score" for 18221 reflects a community grappling with the challenges of rural healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential barriers to ride-sharing services create a complex environment. While medical transportation services offer a crucial safety net, the overall picture suggests that improvements in transportation infrastructure and healthcare access are essential to promoting the health and well-being of Drifton residents. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape is a key determinant of **healthcare access**, and this, in turn, significantly impacts the overall health of the community.