18222, Drums, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18222, Drums, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.70 percent of residents in 18222 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 5.56 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Drums, PA (ZIP Code 18222)

Drums, Pennsylvania, nestled within the verdant embrace of the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique landscape for residents. While the area offers a serene atmosphere, its rural character significantly impacts access to essential services, particularly healthcare. This analysis delves into the complexities of healthcare access within ZIP Code 18222, evaluating the various transportation options available and ultimately providing an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching medical care. This assessment is crucial for anyone considering moving to Drums, PA, as it directly impacts their well-being.

The foundation of healthcare access hinges on the ability to reach medical facilities. In Drums, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The road network, while scenic, presents challenges. Residents rely heavily on **Interstate 80 (I-80)**, a major east-west artery, for travel to larger medical centers. Access to I-80 is facilitated by **Route 309**, a north-south thoroughfare. However, during peak hours, traffic congestion on both routes can significantly extend travel times, especially when heading towards Wilkes-Barre or Hazleton.

Beyond the major highways, **local roads** like **Church Road, Main Street, and Green Mountain Road** provide access within the community. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly snow and ice during the winter months. This can further impede transportation and delay access to urgent medical care. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of reliable car ownership and the financial burden associated with it, which directly impacts healthcare access for those with limited resources.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 18222 are limited. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides some bus services, but coverage in Drums is sparse. Route 18, which operates between Hazleton and Wilkes-Barre, might offer some limited service, but frequency and route availability are limited. This makes public transit a less viable option for most residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or residing outside the immediate vicinity of the limited bus routes. The lack of robust public transportation exacerbates the challenges for individuals without access to a personal vehicle.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of available public transportation is critical. While LCTA is obligated to provide accessible services, the limited route coverage and potential for lengthy travel times can present significant challenges for individuals with disabilities. The availability of accessible stops and vehicles is also a crucial factor in ensuring equitable healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transportation. However, the availability of these services in rural areas like Drums is often limited. Demand may be lower, leading to longer wait times and potentially higher fares. The economic viability of ride-sharing services also depends on the availability of drivers, which can fluctuate. This makes ride-sharing a less dependable option, especially for urgent medical needs.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including both private and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers. These services typically require advance booking and can be costly. While they offer a vital service, the cost and scheduling requirements can pose barriers to access for some residents.

The drive times to healthcare facilities from Drums vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day. Hazleton, approximately 15-20 minutes away via Route 309, offers a range of medical services, including hospitals and specialist clinics. Wilkes-Barre, a larger city with more comprehensive healthcare options, is roughly a 30-45-minute drive via I-80 and Route 309. However, these estimates are subject to traffic conditions.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further afield, potentially to Allentown or Scranton, which can involve drive times exceeding an hour. This extended travel time can be particularly problematic for patients requiring frequent appointments or experiencing acute medical conditions. The distance to specialized care centers adds to the overall complexity of healthcare access in Drums.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access extends beyond simply reaching a doctor's office. It affects the ability to obtain prescriptions, attend physical therapy, and access mental health services. The lack of convenient transportation options can lead to delayed care, missed appointments, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. This is a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Drums.

The cost of transportation also plays a significant role. Fuel costs, vehicle maintenance, and the potential expense of ride-sharing or medical transport services can create a financial burden, particularly for low-income residents. This financial strain can further limit healthcare access, leading individuals to forgo necessary care due to cost concerns. The economic implications of transportation significantly influence the overall health of the community.

Considering all factors, the "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 18222 is **moderate**. While the area offers access to some medical services within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential challenges posed by ride-sharing and medical transport services create significant barriers. The absence of readily available, affordable, and accessible transportation options directly impacts healthcare access, particularly for vulnerable populations.

The score is influenced by the following: the dependence on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation infrastructure, the potential for traffic delays, the cost of transportation, the availability of ride-sharing services, the need for medical transport, and the distance to specialized care facilities. The score reflects the complex interplay of these factors and their collective impact on the ability of Drums residents to access necessary medical care.

Improving healthcare access in Drums requires a multi-pronged approach. Investing in public transportation, expanding ride-sharing services, and promoting the availability of medical transport are all critical steps. Furthermore, initiatives to support car ownership and reduce transportation costs for low-income residents can significantly improve healthcare access. Addressing these transportation challenges is essential for fostering a healthier community and ensuring that residents of Drums, PA, have the opportunity to thrive. The quality of life in Drums, PA, is directly tied to its healthcare access.