18244, Parryville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18244, Parryville, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.20 percent of residents in 18244 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Luke's Hospital - Carbon Campus with a distance of 1.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18244 (Parryville, PA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Parryville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18244) necessitates a thorough examination of healthcare access, with a primary focus on the transportation infrastructure that connects residents to vital medical services. This analysis delves into the realities of navigating to doctors' offices, hospitals, and other essential healthcare providers, considering the limitations and opportunities presented by the local environment. Understanding the existing transportation landscape is critical for anyone contemplating moving to Parryville or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access.

The geographical context of Parryville significantly shapes the healthcare commute experience. Nestled in Carbon County, the borough is characterized by a rural setting with limited public transportation options. The primary roadways serving the area are crucial to consider. Route 248, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides the most direct access to larger towns and healthcare facilities. Route 895, running north-south, offers another essential artery. These highways are the lifelines for residents seeking medical care, but their efficiency is often hampered by traffic, particularly during peak hours.

The nearest major hospital, St. Luke's Hospital – Miners Campus, is located in Coaldale, approximately 10 miles away. The drive, primarily via Route 209 and Route 309, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive time represents a reasonable commute, but it can become a significant barrier for individuals with mobility issues or those lacking reliable personal transportation. The next closest hospital, Lehigh Valley Hospital – Carbon, in Lehighton, is about 15 miles away, accessible via Route 248 and Route 443. This journey typically takes between 25 and 40 minutes.

Public transportation options in the region are severely limited. The Carbon Transit Authority (CTA) provides some bus services, but these routes are infrequent and primarily serve the larger towns of Carbon County. The CTA routes, while offering some degree of accessibility, are not readily available in Parryville. The nearest CTA stop might require a considerable walk, making it an impractical option for many residents, especially those with disabilities or limited mobility. The lack of comprehensive public transit significantly impacts the overall health score, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The absence of ADA-compliant features on existing routes further exacerbates this issue.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness are variable. Demand often fluctuates, and the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can be inconsistent. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden for individuals with limited financial resources, effectively creating another barrier to healthcare access. Medical transport services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies, are available, but these are typically reserved for emergency situations or for patients requiring specialized transportation. These services are often expensive and may not be a viable option for routine medical appointments.

The availability of primary care physicians and specialists within Parryville itself is limited. Residents often need to travel to neighboring towns, such as Lehighton or Palmerton, for routine medical care. This necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or the already strained transportation options. The distance to these providers, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, can contribute to delayed or missed appointments, ultimately impacting health outcomes. The lack of local healthcare providers necessitates increased transportation needs, thereby lowering the overall health score.

The overall health score for Parryville residents is therefore significantly influenced by the challenges of healthcare access. The dependence on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a less-than-ideal situation. The absence of readily available and affordable transportation options places a disproportionate burden on vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes.

For individuals considering moving to Parryville, the healthcare commute should be a paramount concern. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and assess their ability to navigate the existing infrastructure. Understanding the limitations of public transit, the potential costs of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles is crucial for making an informed decision.

The lack of readily available transportation also impacts the ability of residents to access preventative care, such as regular check-ups and screenings. These services are essential for maintaining good health and detecting potential health problems early on. The difficulty in accessing these services can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes. This reinforces the need for improved transportation options and increased healthcare accessibility.

The local government and healthcare providers should work collaboratively to address these challenges. This could involve exploring options for expanding public transportation services, partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments, and investing in telehealth initiatives to reduce the need for in-person visits.

Furthermore, community outreach programs could be implemented to educate residents about available transportation options and to assist individuals in navigating the healthcare system. These initiatives could help to bridge the gap between residents and the healthcare services they need.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of Parryville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18244) is significantly impacted by the limitations of the transportation infrastructure. While the area offers a relatively short drive to some healthcare facilities, the lack of robust public transportation, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles create significant barriers to healthcare access. Anyone moving to Parryville should carefully consider these factors, and the community should actively work to improve transportation options and ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need. This is crucial for improving the overall health and well-being of the community.