18321, Bartonsville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18321, Bartonsville, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.16 percent of residents in 18321 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Luke's Hospital - Monroe Campus with a distance of 5.10 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Bartonsville (ZIP Code 18321)

Bartonsville, Pennsylvania, nestled within the Pocono Mountains, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, assessing the overall health score for residents necessitates a thorough examination of **healthcare access**, particularly the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities. This analysis focuses on the **transportation** landscape within and surrounding ZIP Code 18321, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and alternative modes of transport. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone **moving to Bartonsville**, ensuring they can readily access the care they need.

The primary determinant of a strong health score is the proximity and accessibility of healthcare providers. Residents of Bartonsville often rely on personal vehicles to navigate the region. Driving times to various medical facilities vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day. The primary arteries for travel include Interstate 80 (I-80), a major east-west thoroughfare, and Route 611, which runs north-south, providing access to nearby towns and cities.

For routine care, the Pocono Medical Center in East Stroudsburg is a significant hub, generally reachable within a 15-20 minute drive via Route 611. This drive time is subject to traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours. The hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, specialized clinics, and inpatient facilities. However, the reliance on personal vehicles can pose a challenge for those without access to a car, particularly the elderly or individuals with disabilities.

Specialized care may necessitate longer journeys. For instance, accessing specialist physicians or tertiary care facilities in Allentown, Pennsylvania, requires a drive of approximately one hour via I-80 West. This longer travel time adds to the burden, potentially delaying access to critical care. Weather conditions, common in the Poconos, can further complicate travel, increasing drive times and potentially hindering access to healthcare.

Public transit options in the Bartonsville area are limited. The Monroe County Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides some bus services, though these routes primarily serve more populated areas and may not directly connect to all medical facilities. Route 103, for example, offers limited service. Information on ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility for these routes is available through the MCTA website. However, the frequency of service and the routes offered may not adequately address the healthcare transportation needs of all residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area. However, their availability and cost can vary depending on demand and the time of day. These services can provide a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM), are also available, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance.

The overall health score for Bartonsville, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to Pocono Medical Center provides a good starting point for routine care. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit options, poses challenges for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers alternative solutions, but their cost and availability may be limiting factors.

The health score is further impacted by the demographics of the area. Bartonsville has a growing senior population, who may face mobility limitations and increased reliance on healthcare services. These residents often require assistance with transportation. Furthermore, individuals with chronic conditions or disabilities may experience greater difficulty accessing healthcare due to transportation barriers.

For individuals considering **moving to Bartonsville**, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Those who rely on public transit or have limited mobility should carefully evaluate the accessibility of healthcare facilities and the availability of alternative transportation options. The cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation should also be factored into the decision-making process.

The development of improved public transit options, including expanded routes and increased service frequency, would significantly enhance the overall health score for Bartonsville. Furthermore, initiatives to promote carpooling or shared transportation among residents could help alleviate transportation challenges. Collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and transportation agencies is crucial to address the transportation needs of the community and ensure that all residents have equitable access to healthcare.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Bartonsville is moderate. While the presence of Pocono Medical Center provides convenient access to some healthcare services, the limitations in public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles create barriers for certain segments of the population. A comprehensive approach to improving transportation infrastructure and expanding access to alternative transportation options is essential to enhance the health and well-being of all residents. This is a critical consideration for anyone **moving to Bartonsville**, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.