18414, Dalton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18414, Dalton, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.62 percent of residents in 18414 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Dickson City with a distance of 7.35 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: ZIP Code 18414 (Dalton, PA) – A Transportation Perspective

Assessing the overall health of a community involves examining numerous interconnected factors. This analysis focuses on the transportation landscape within ZIP Code 18414 (Dalton, Pennsylvania), specifically concerning access to healthcare. Transportation, the very lifeblood of modern society, dictates an individual's ability to receive essential medical services. This write-up will explore the available transportation options, analyze drive times, and assess the overall ease of accessing healthcare facilities for residents considering moving to Dalton or already residing there.

The geographical layout of Dalton, nestled in the rolling hills of Lackawanna County, presents both advantages and challenges when considering healthcare access. Its proximity to Scranton, a regional hub for medical services, is a significant benefit. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the limitations of public transportation, require careful consideration.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation for most Dalton residents is the personal vehicle. The major roadways serving the area are crucial for healthcare access. Interstate 81 (I-81), a north-south artery, provides relatively quick access to Scranton, where a majority of specialized medical facilities are located. Traveling south on I-81, the drive to Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine and associated hospitals typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Route 6, a significant east-west thoroughfare, intersects I-81 near Dalton, offering another route to Scranton. While Route 6 provides scenic views, it can experience heavier traffic, especially during peak hours. Expect a slightly longer drive time, perhaps 20-25 minutes, to reach Scranton hospitals using this route.

Local roads, such as North Abington Road, South Abington Road, and Griffin Pond Road, provide access to smaller clinics and medical offices within the immediate vicinity. These routes, while convenient for local appointments, might not be suitable for accessing specialized care in Scranton. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can impact drive times and safety.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 18414 are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus services, but routes and frequency are restricted, especially in the more rural areas surrounding Dalton.

The primary LCTA route serving the area, Route 21, travels between Scranton and Clarks Summit, passing through Dalton. This route operates on a limited schedule, with fewer trips on weekends and evenings. While Route 21 offers a potential connection to healthcare facilities in Scranton, the wait times and potential for multiple transfers can significantly increase travel time, making it less convenient for urgent medical needs. ADA accessibility is a key feature of LCTA buses, offering ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Dalton area, providing an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-share trips can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer a crucial service for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. Several companies operate in the Scranton area, including First Transit and Medical Transportation Management (MTM). These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements, such as insurance coverage. They are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical equipment.

**Healthcare Access: A Comprehensive View**

The overall health score for transportation and healthcare access in ZIP Code 18414 presents a mixed picture. While the proximity to Scranton provides access to a wide range of medical specialists and hospitals, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation pose challenges.

The drive times to Scranton facilities are generally reasonable, averaging 15-25 minutes. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can impact these times. The lack of robust public transportation options disproportionately affects individuals without access to a car, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents.

Ride-share services offer a viable alternative, but their availability and cost can be a concern. Medical transportation services provide a critical lifeline for specific populations, but their availability and eligibility requirements must be considered.

**Moving to Dalton: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Dalton, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the limitations of the LCTA service and the availability of medical transportation options.

Individuals with chronic health conditions or frequent medical appointments should factor in the potential costs and travel times associated with accessing healthcare facilities in Scranton. Having a reliable personal vehicle or access to ride-sharing services is highly advantageous.

The overall health score for Dalton, in terms of healthcare access, can be improved by expanding public transportation options, increasing the frequency of LCTA routes, and exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments. Increased awareness of medical transportation services and their availability is also essential.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

In conclusion, the transportation landscape in ZIP Code 18414 presents both opportunities and challenges for healthcare access. While the proximity to Scranton and the availability of major roadways are positive factors, the limitations of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate careful consideration.

For residents of Dalton, understanding the available transportation options, planning for potential delays, and exploring alternative solutions like ride-sharing and medical transportation are essential for ensuring access to timely and appropriate healthcare. The overall health score, while decent, can be significantly improved by addressing the transportation limitations and promoting a more accessible and equitable healthcare system for all residents, especially those considering moving to Dalton. The future of healthcare access in Dalton depends on a multifaceted approach that prioritizes transportation infrastructure, public transit improvements, and readily available resources for all members of the community.