18254, Tresckow, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18254, Tresckow, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

92.39 percent of residents in 18254 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 2.32 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Tresckow (ZIP Code 18254)

Tresckow, Pennsylvania, nestled within the embrace of the Pocono Mountains, presents a unique landscape for residents. While its natural beauty is undeniable, the accessibility of healthcare services – a critical component of overall well-being – warrants careful consideration. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 18254, assesses the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access, providing an "Overall Health Score" for the area. We'll explore the nuances of commuting, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation options, all crucial for individuals contemplating a move to Tresckow.

The primary challenge for residents of Tresckow lies in its relative remoteness. The nearest major medical facilities are located in surrounding towns, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles for the majority of healthcare appointments. Interstate 80, a major east-west artery, provides the most direct route to hospitals in Hazleton and Bloomsburg. However, the volume of traffic and potential for delays, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather, can significantly impact drive times.

From Tresckow, accessing healthcare in Hazleton, approximately 10 miles away, usually involves a drive along Route 924, a winding road that can be slow-going during rush hour. The trip can take anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. For more specialized care, residents often travel to larger hospitals in Wilkes-Barre, a journey of approximately 35 miles, typically via I-81. This commute can easily consume an hour or more, placing a considerable burden on individuals seeking timely medical attention.

The availability of public transportation in Tresckow is limited. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides some bus service, but routes serving Tresckow are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting to Hazleton. Route 18, for instance, offers a connection to Hazleton, but the schedule may not align with the needs of those seeking medical appointments. Furthermore, the accessibility of these routes for individuals with disabilities, including the availability of wheelchair-accessible buses and ramps, needs careful evaluation. Information regarding ADA compliance and route accessibility is essential for those with mobility limitations.

The absence of robust public transit underscores the dependence on personal vehicles. This reality poses challenges for individuals without access to a car, including seniors, low-income families, and those with disabilities. The lack of alternative transportation options can create significant barriers to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Hazleton area, but their presence in Tresckow itself is less consistent. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability can make it difficult to schedule appointments or arrange transportation for emergencies.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require advance booking and may have associated costs, which can be a barrier for some residents. The availability of these services and their coverage area within ZIP Code 18254 should be thoroughly investigated.

The "Overall Health Score" for Tresckow, considering these factors, is moderate. While the area boasts a beautiful natural environment, the limitations in transportation options significantly impact healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the infrequent public transit, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create challenges for residents seeking timely and convenient medical care.

For individuals considering moving to Tresckow, a careful assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. If access to regular medical appointments is a priority, the potential commute times and the lack of readily available alternative transportation options should be carefully considered.

The local healthcare landscape also plays a role. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within the immediate vicinity of Tresckow can mitigate some of the transportation challenges. However, the limited healthcare infrastructure within the ZIP Code necessitates travel to surrounding areas for most medical needs.

The local community, including healthcare providers and local government, can play a vital role in improving healthcare access. Initiatives such as advocating for increased public transportation, promoting ride-sharing programs, and supporting medical transportation services can help bridge the gap between residents and healthcare facilities.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for Tresckow reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, the limitations in transportation options pose a significant challenge to healthcare access. Individuals contemplating a move to Tresckow should carefully weigh these factors and consider their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Thorough research into available transportation options, including drive times, public transit schedules, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, is essential for making an informed decision. The future of healthcare access in Tresckow hinges on the collective efforts of the community to improve transportation infrastructure and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive timely and convenient medical care. The health and well-being of the community depend on it.