18411, Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18411, Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.87 percent of residents in 18411 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Dickson City with a distance of 4.38 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18411 (Clarks Summit, PA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18411), requires a comprehensive look at healthcare access. This analysis delves into the critical aspect of transportation, examining drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, all of which significantly impact the ability of residents to reach essential medical services. For those considering moving to Clarks Summit, understanding these nuances is crucial for informed decision-making.

The geographical location of Clarks Summit, nestled in the rolling hills of northeastern Pennsylvania, presents both advantages and challenges when it comes to healthcare access. While the town itself offers some local medical facilities, the need for specialized care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers in the surrounding areas, particularly Scranton.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries connecting Clarks Summit to regional healthcare hubs are Interstate 81 (I-81) and US Route 6. Travel times, of course, vary depending on traffic, time of day, and weather conditions. However, generally, a drive to Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, a major healthcare provider, takes approximately 10-15 minutes via I-81 South. The route is straightforward, but traffic congestion during peak hours can extend this commute.

Accessing Moses Taylor Hospital in Scranton, another significant healthcare facility, involves a slightly longer drive, typically 15-20 minutes, utilizing I-81 South and local roads. The journey is generally smooth, but again, traffic fluctuations can impact travel times. Driving to more specialized facilities, such as the Commonwealth Health Regional Hospital of Scranton, may take 20-25 minutes, depending on the specific route and traffic conditions.

For those seeking care in the opposite direction, towards the east, the drive to smaller clinics and medical offices along US Route 6 can be a viable option. However, the healthcare options are generally less extensive than those found in Scranton. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can also affect transportation.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Clarks Summit and the surrounding areas are limited, which can pose a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not own a car or cannot drive. The Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service, but routes and schedules are not always convenient for medical appointments.

Specific LCTA routes serving Clarks Summit, such as the Route 21, may offer some connectivity to Scranton, but the frequency of service is often infrequent, and the travel time can be significantly longer than driving. Furthermore, the routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities, requiring transfers or a considerable walk from the bus stop.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor for individuals with disabilities. The LCTA strives to provide accessible services, but potential riders should verify the accessibility of specific routes and schedules in advance. The limited public transit infrastructure highlights a key challenge for residents of Clarks Summit, particularly those with mobility limitations, in accessing healthcare.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Clarks Summit and Scranton, providing an alternative transportation option for medical appointments. However, the availability of these services can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical visits.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Companies such as Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and local private providers offer these services. However, it is crucial to check insurance coverage for these services, as costs can vary significantly.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The overall health score for Clarks Summit, considering transportation and healthcare access, is moderately positive, but with significant caveats. The proximity to Scranton, with its concentration of medical facilities, is a major advantage. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create potential barriers for certain populations.

Individuals who can drive and have access to a car generally have good healthcare access. However, those who cannot drive, have mobility limitations, or rely on public transportation face more significant challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services can help mitigate these challenges, but cost and availability remain concerns.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the overall health score for Clarks Summit, several improvements are recommended. Expanding and enhancing the LCTA bus routes to better serve healthcare facilities and increase the frequency of service would be beneficial. Promoting and subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments could also improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

Furthermore, educating residents about available medical transportation services and ensuring that insurance coverage for these services is readily accessible is essential. For those moving to Clarks Summit, researching the availability of transportation options and understanding the potential costs associated with healthcare access is crucial.

The overall health score is impacted by the interplay of all these factors. While Clarks Summit offers a generally good quality of life, the transportation landscape must be considered when evaluating healthcare access. The ability to readily reach medical appointments is a cornerstone of overall well-being. The future of healthcare access in Clarks Summit hinges on addressing the challenges of transportation, ensuring that all residents, regardless of their circumstances, can receive the care they need.