18434, Jessup, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18434, Jessup, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.82 percent of residents in 18434 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Dickson City with a distance of 3.63 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Jessup, PA (ZIP Code 18434)

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. In Jessup, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 18434, this access hinges significantly on the ability to **transport** oneself to medical facilities. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the various modes of **transportation** available, the distance to healthcare providers, and the challenges and opportunities presented by the local landscape. This information is particularly valuable for individuals **moving to Jessup** or evaluating the area's healthcare accessibility.

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite measure, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical **transport** services. Each category is assessed and weighted to provide a comprehensive understanding of the ease or difficulty of accessing medical care within and around Jessup. The higher the score, the better the healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

Jessup's location in Lackawanna County offers both advantages and disadvantages regarding **transportation** to healthcare. Proximity to Scranton, a regional healthcare hub, provides access to a wide range of specialists and hospitals. However, the reliance on personal vehicles for **transportation** is a significant factor in the overall score.

The primary routes for accessing healthcare facilities from Jessup are Interstate 81 (I-81) and the smaller, more local roads. The Scranton area is the primary destination for healthcare needs. Driving to major hospitals like Geisinger Community Medical Center or Moses Taylor Hospital typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. These drive times are generally considered acceptable, but they can be significantly impacted by rush hour, inclement weather, or accidents.

Accessing facilities in the opposite direction, towards the Pocono area, such as the Wayne Memorial Hospital, can be more challenging, requiring travel on Route 6 or smaller roads. These routes are often less direct and can involve longer drive times, potentially exceeding an hour, making them less ideal for urgent medical needs.

The condition of the roads themselves is a factor. While I-81 is generally well-maintained, local roads can be subject to potholes, especially during winter. This can affect the safety and comfort of the journey, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those needing to be transported in an ambulance.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Jessup and the surrounding area are limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare **access**. The Lackawanna County Transit System (LCTS) provides bus service, but the routes and schedules are not always conducive to easy access to healthcare facilities.

Bus routes are often infrequent, with limited service on evenings and weekends. This can be a major obstacle for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive. The routes primarily serve the Scranton area, making it more challenging to reach healthcare providers in other directions.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. While LCTS buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the system can vary. Individuals with mobility impairments may face significant challenges in utilizing public **transportation** for healthcare appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Scranton area, offering an alternative to public transit and personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services in Jessup may be less reliable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical **transport** services are available for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door **transportation**, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several companies operate in the area, including, but not limited to, American Medical Response (AMR) and local private ambulance services.

The cost of medical **transport** can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the specific service provider. While these services are essential for some individuals, the cost can be a significant burden, and availability may be limited depending on the type of medical **transport** required.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

Beyond the physical **transportation** challenges, other factors influence healthcare **access** in Jessup. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within a reasonable distance is crucial. The number of healthcare providers accepting new patients, the insurance coverage accepted, and the wait times for appointments all impact the overall healthcare experience.

The demographics of Jessup, including the age distribution and the prevalence of chronic health conditions, also play a role. An aging population may require more frequent medical care, increasing the demand for accessible **transportation**.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for **transportation** to healthcare in Jessup, PA (18434) is moderately positive. While the proximity to Scranton offers access to a wide range of medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit present challenges.

The score is impacted by the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Generally acceptable to Scranton-area facilities but can be longer to other destinations.
* **Public Transit:** Limited routes and schedules, with potential challenges for ADA accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Availability may be inconsistent, and cost can be a barrier.
* **Medical Transport:** Available but can be costly.

The overall score for healthcare **access** in Jessup is influenced by the availability of healthcare providers, insurance coverage, and other factors.

For individuals **moving to Jessup**, it is crucial to carefully consider the **transportation** options available and assess their personal healthcare needs. Those without reliable access to a car may face significant challenges in accessing medical care. Planning for **transportation** needs, exploring ride-sharing options, and researching medical **transport** services are essential steps.

The community could benefit from initiatives that improve public transit options, increase the availability of ride-sharing services, and promote awareness of medical **transport** resources. These efforts would enhance healthcare **access** and contribute to a healthier community for all residents of Jessup.