18252, Tamaqua, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18252, Tamaqua, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.58 percent of residents in 18252 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Luke's Miners Memorial Hospital with a distance of 3.26 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18252

The health and well-being of residents in Tamaqua, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 18252, are significantly intertwined with their ability to access healthcare services. This comprehensive analysis delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach medical facilities. We'll examine driving times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, ultimately providing an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the accessibility of healthcare in this community. This information is particularly relevant for those considering **moving to Tamaqua**, ensuring they understand the practicalities of maintaining their health in this environment.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in 18252 is the reliance on personal vehicles. The area's geography and limited public transportation necessitate driving for most medical appointments. The major thoroughfares impacting commute times include **Interstate 81 (I-81)**, the primary north-south artery, and **Route 309**, a significant east-west corridor. Residents often utilize **Route 209** and **Route 443** for local travel. The condition of these roads, traffic patterns, and the distance to healthcare providers are crucial elements in determining the overall health score.

Driving to the nearest hospitals and clinics from Tamaqua involves varying travel times depending on the destination and traffic conditions. **St. Luke's Miners Campus** in Coaldale, approximately 10 miles away, typically requires a 15-20 minute drive via **Route 209**. **Lehigh Valley Hospital – Schuylkill** in Pottsville, about 20 miles distant, necessitates a 30-40 minute drive, often utilizing **Route 209** and **Route 61**. Further afield, **Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hazleton**, roughly 30 miles away, can take 45-60 minutes, involving **I-81** or **Route 309**. These drive times, while manageable, can be impacted by weather, accidents, and peak traffic hours, potentially delaying access to crucial medical care.

Public transportation options in 18252 are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. **The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS)** offers bus routes, but their frequency and coverage are restricted. While STS provides routes that may serve the Tamaqua area, they are not specifically designed for healthcare access. Passengers must often navigate multiple transfers, and the limited service hours can be restrictive, particularly for those needing early morning or evening appointments. The availability of **ADA-accessible** buses is a crucial factor, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transit. However, the sparse frequency and potential for lengthy travel times negatively impact the overall health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Tamaqua area, but their reliability and cost can be variable. The availability of drivers is often dependent on demand, potentially leading to longer wait times, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes or frequent medical appointments. The fluctuating nature of these services adds an element of uncertainty to healthcare access, influencing the overall health score.

Specialized medical transport services are available, catering to individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring ambulance services or non-emergency medical transportation. **Geisinger Life Flight** provides emergency air medical services, offering rapid transport in critical situations. **Medic 10** and other local ambulance companies provide ground transportation for emergencies. For non-emergency medical transport, companies like **Care Ride** and other private providers offer services to transport patients to and from medical appointments. While these services are essential, their availability and cost can impact the overall health score, particularly for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 18252 is moderately positive, but with significant caveats. The area benefits from relatively short driving distances to nearby hospitals and clinics. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options create challenges, especially for those without access to a car or who are unable to drive. The variability of ride-sharing services and the cost of specialized medical transport further complicate the picture.

The score is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within the community. The presence of local clinics, primary care physicians, and specialists can reduce the need for lengthy travel. The quality of care provided by these facilities is also a critical factor, as is the ability of residents to find providers who accept their insurance. The overall health score is therefore a multifaceted assessment, encompassing transportation, provider availability, and the affordability of healthcare services.

For those considering **moving to Tamaqua**, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is crucial. While the area offers a relatively peaceful and affordable lifestyle, healthcare access requires careful planning. Individuals should consider their transportation needs, explore available public transit options, and assess the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport. They should also investigate the availability of healthcare providers in the area and ensure they can access the services they need.

The overall health score can be improved by enhancing public transportation options, increasing the availability of affordable ride-sharing services, and promoting the presence of local healthcare providers. These measures would improve healthcare access and contribute to the overall well-being of the residents of 18252. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as better road maintenance and traffic management, would also reduce commute times and enhance the overall health score.

In conclusion, while 18252 offers reasonable access to healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation present challenges. The overall health score is moderate, reflecting a balance between manageable drive times and the need for careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation options. This information is critical for anyone considering **moving to Tamaqua**, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensuring they can maintain their well-being in this community.