18250, Summit Hill, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18250, Summit Hill, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.67 percent of residents in 18250 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Luke's Miners Memorial Hospital with a distance of 2.31 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in Summit Hill, PA (ZIP Code 18250)

This assessment provides a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for residents of Summit Hill, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18250), focusing on the critical element of **healthcare access**. This score considers various factors related to **transportation** options, travel times, and the availability of medical services within a reasonable radius. Understanding these nuances is vital for individuals considering **moving to Summit Hill** and for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.

The score is not a definitive judgment of overall health but rather a gauge of the ease with which residents can reach essential medical care. It incorporates drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. This holistic approach aims to paint a realistic picture of the healthcare landscape in Summit Hill, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their well-being.

Summit Hill, nestled in the heart of Carbon County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town’s location, while offering scenic beauty, also influences the availability and accessibility of medical services. This assessment delves into these factors, providing a detailed overview of the healthcare ecosystem within and around ZIP Code 18250.

**Drive Time Analysis: The Road to Wellness**

The primary mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare in Summit Hill is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Several major roadways facilitate travel to various medical facilities. Route 209, the main artery, provides direct access to Lehighton, a town offering a wider array of medical services. Driving south on Route 209, one can reach St. Luke's Lehighton Campus, a full-service hospital, in approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Traveling east on Route 93 offers access to Hazleton, a larger city with a more extensive healthcare network. This route, however, can be subject to heavier traffic, particularly during peak hours. The drive to major hospitals like Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hazleton can take approximately 30-40 minutes.

For those heading west, Route 24, though a shorter route, leads to Tamaqua, a town with limited medical facilities. The drive to St. Luke's Miners Campus in Coaldale, which is further west, may take about 20-25 minutes. The condition of the roads and potential for inclement weather, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact these drive times.

**Public Transit: Navigating the System**

Public transit options in Summit Hill are limited, presenting a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Carbon Transit provides bus service within Carbon County, but the frequency and routes are restricted. Route 101, for example, connects Summit Hill to Lehighton and Jim Thorpe, providing access to some medical facilities. However, the schedule may not align with all medical appointments.

The buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the limited service frequency and potential for longer travel times make public transit a less convenient option for many residents, especially for urgent or specialized medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are also available. These services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical care. Ambulance services are readily accessible for emergency situations. NEMT services, often provided by private companies, offer transportation to and from medical appointments for individuals who cannot drive themselves.

**Healthcare Facilities: A Landscape Overview**

Summit Hill itself has limited healthcare facilities. Residents typically rely on healthcare providers in neighboring towns and cities. Lehighton offers a comprehensive healthcare hub, including St. Luke's Lehighton Campus, various specialist practices, and outpatient services.

Hazleton provides a wider range of healthcare options, including Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hazleton, numerous specialty clinics, and advanced medical technologies. Tamaqua and Coaldale, though closer, have fewer medical facilities. The choice of healthcare provider often depends on individual needs, insurance coverage, and the availability of specialized services.

**Overall Health Score: A Composite Assessment**

The Overall Health Score for residents of ZIP Code 18250 is moderately impacted by the geographical location and the limited **transportation** options. While drive times to major healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges for some residents.

The availability of ride-sharing services offers a degree of flexibility, but the unpredictability of service and potential cost limitations must be considered. Medical transport services provide essential support for individuals with specific needs.

**Factors contributing to the score:**

* **Drive Times:** Moderate drive times to major healthcare facilities (15-40 minutes).
* **Public Transit:** Limited public transit options with infrequent routes.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Ride-sharing services available but may be unreliable.
* **Medical Transport:** Medical transport services readily available for specific needs.
* **Healthcare Facility Proximity:** Residents rely on facilities in neighboring towns.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Increase the frequency and expand the routes of the Carbon Transit bus service.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing:** Explore partnerships with ride-sharing companies to improve availability and affordability.
* **Support NEMT Services:** Ensure the availability and accessibility of NEMT services for residents with mobility limitations.
* **Community Education:** Educate residents about available healthcare resources and **transportation** options.
* **Advocate for Healthcare Expansion:** Advocate for the expansion of healthcare services within Summit Hill and neighboring communities.

**Conclusion:**

The Overall Health Score for Summit Hill residents reflects a healthcare landscape that requires careful navigation. While access to healthcare is available, it is often contingent on the availability of personal **transportation**. Individuals considering **moving to Summit Hill** should carefully assess their **healthcare access** needs and the available options. By understanding the intricacies of the healthcare system and the **transportation** infrastructure, residents can make informed decisions to ensure their well-being. Continued efforts to improve public transit, promote ride-sharing, and support medical transport services will be crucial in enhancing the Overall Health Score for the community.