18239, Milnesville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18239, Milnesville, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 18239 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 3.02 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18239 (Milnesville, PA)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access essential services, particularly healthcare. In the rural expanse of ZIP Code 18239, encompassing the charming village of Milnesville, Pennsylvania, the journey to medical attention presents unique challenges. This assessment delves into the multifaceted aspects of healthcare access, focusing on transportation infrastructure, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. We aim to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for residents, particularly those contemplating moving to Milnesville.

The geographic isolation of Milnesville, nestled within the rolling hills of northeastern Pennsylvania, significantly impacts healthcare access. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in neighboring towns and cities, necessitating travel. The primary arteries for transportation are Pennsylvania Route 93 and Pennsylvania Route 339. Route 93, a two-lane highway, provides a direct route to Hazleton, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, where residents can access the Lehigh Valley Hospital-Hazleton. Route 339, a less direct route, connects Milnesville to Bloomsburg, roughly a 30-40 minute drive, offering access to Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital.

Drive times are crucial considerations when evaluating healthcare access. The ability to reach a hospital or urgent care facility within a reasonable timeframe is paramount, especially during medical emergencies. Traffic conditions, weather, and the driver’s familiarity with the routes can all affect travel times. The winding roads and rural nature of the area can sometimes pose additional challenges, particularly during inclement weather.

Public transportation options within 18239 are limited, representing a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides some service, but the routes serving Milnesville are infrequent and may not directly connect to medical facilities. Residents would likely need to transfer routes, adding significant travel time and complexity. ADA accessibility features on LCTA buses are available, but the limited service frequency and route coverage necessitate careful planning.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Milnesville is another factor. While these services are increasingly prevalent in urban areas, their presence in rural communities can be sporadic and unreliable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden for individuals and families, especially for frequent medical appointments. The lack of readily available ride-sharing options further complicates healthcare access for those without access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency and, in some cases, emergency transportation. These services can be costly, and availability may be limited, particularly during peak hours or in response to urgent situations.

The overall 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in 18239 reflects the challenges posed by its rural location. While the drive to Hazleton offers relatively quick access to a hospital, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create barriers for many residents. The sporadic availability of ride-sharing services and the cost of medical transport further complicate the situation.

The assessment of healthcare access is not solely based on transportation; it also encompasses the availability of healthcare providers within the community. Milnesville itself has limited medical facilities. Residents must rely on healthcare providers in neighboring towns, further emphasizing the importance of accessible transportation.

For individuals considering moving to Milnesville, a thorough evaluation of their transportation needs and access to healthcare is essential. The availability of reliable transportation, whether through personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transport, should be a key consideration. The ability to reach medical facilities promptly and affordably is critical for maintaining good health and well-being.

The 'Overall Health Score' for 18239 is, therefore, moderately impacted by the transportation challenges. While the proximity to Hazleton provides relatively quick access to a hospital, the limitations of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport necessitate careful planning and potentially higher transportation costs. The reliance on personal vehicles can be a significant burden for those without access to a car or the financial means to maintain one.

The healthcare landscape in 18239 is a complex interplay of geographic constraints, transportation infrastructure, and available services. While the community offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the challenges of healthcare access must be carefully considered. For prospective residents, understanding the transportation options and their associated costs is crucial for making an informed decision.