18421, Forest City, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18421, Forest City, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.03 percent of residents in 18421 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.75 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Forest City, PA (ZIP Code 18421)

Forest City, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of the Endless Mountains, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, when considering a move to this charming community, prospective residents must carefully assess their access to healthcare. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" for ZIP code 18421, evaluating the crucial factor of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport to paint a comprehensive picture. This information is vital for anyone prioritizing their well-being and considering a move to Forest City.

The "Overall Health Score" considers the time and effort required to reach various healthcare providers, factoring in the availability and reliability of transportation options. This score helps individuals understand the practical realities of accessing medical care within and around Forest City. The score is not a numerical value but a descriptive assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and potential challenges.

**Driving the Landscape:**

For most residents of Forest City, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The town's location necessitates reliance on roadways to reach medical facilities. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are US-6, PA-171, and local roads.

* **US-6:** This major east-west highway provides access to larger towns and cities like Carbondale and Scranton. Driving east on US-6 will lead you to Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. This hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including specialized care.

* **PA-171:** This north-south route connects Forest City to surrounding communities. Traveling south on PA-171 leads to the Wayne Memorial Hospital in Honesdale, about a 30-minute drive. Wayne Memorial offers a range of services, including emergency care, and is a crucial healthcare resource for the region.

* **Local Roads:** While offering scenic routes, navigating local roads can be time-consuming, especially during inclement weather. These roads are essential for reaching smaller clinics and physician offices within Forest City and nearby towns.

The drive times mentioned above are estimates and can fluctuate significantly based on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location within Forest City. Residents should always factor in extra travel time, particularly during peak hours or adverse weather.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Forest City are limited. Lackawanna County, which borders Susquehanna County where Forest City is located, has a public transit system, but its reach into the more rural areas is restricted. There is no direct public transit route to Scranton or Honesdale from Forest City. This absence of readily available public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive.

* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-compliant public transportation options is critical for individuals with disabilities. The limited public transit infrastructure in the area raises concerns about accessibility for those who rely on such services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available, though their presence may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in remote areas. Reliance on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments requires careful planning and consideration of potential wait times.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive themselves and have limited access to other transportation options. Several companies provide medical transportation services in the region.

* **Medical Transport Brands:** Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) are available, though their coverage areas and service availability should be confirmed. These services typically require pre-booking and can be a cost-effective solution for scheduled appointments.

* **Emergency Medical Services:** Emergency medical services (EMS) are available in Forest City and surrounding areas. However, relying on EMS for non-emergency transportation is not recommended.

**Healthcare Access: A Balancing Act:**

The "Overall Health Score" for Forest City reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of hospitals and clinics within a reasonable driving distance is a positive aspect, the limitations in public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges.

* **Specialized Care:** Access to specialized medical care may require longer travel times to larger cities like Scranton. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of the time commitment involved.

* **Preventative Care:** The availability of local clinics and physician offices within Forest City supports preventative care and routine check-ups. This is a significant advantage for residents.

* **Emergency Preparedness:** The presence of emergency services is crucial for residents. Quick access to emergency medical care is a vital aspect of the overall health score.

**Considerations for Moving to Forest City:**

For individuals considering moving to Forest City, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is essential.

* **Vehicle Ownership:** Owning a personal vehicle is highly recommended. This provides the most reliable access to healthcare facilities.

* **Pre-Planning:** Residents should pre-plan transportation for medical appointments, especially for specialized care. This might involve scheduling appointments strategically, utilizing medical transport services, or coordinating with family or friends.

* **Proximity to Services:** When choosing a home, consider proximity to local clinics, pharmacies, and emergency services.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape:**

The "Overall Health Score" for Forest City, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18421) reflects a community with accessible healthcare options, primarily reliant on personal transportation. The absence of robust public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and consideration of transportation needs. Prospective residents should thoroughly evaluate their healthcare requirements and transportation capabilities before making a move. By understanding the transportation landscape and planning accordingly, individuals can successfully navigate the healthcare system and enjoy the tranquility of life in Forest City. The key is to proactively address transportation needs to ensure consistent access to essential healthcare services.