18444, Moscow, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18444, Moscow, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.23 percent of residents in 18444 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Community Medical Center with a distance of 7.19 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Moscow, PA (ZIP Code 18444)

Considering a move to Moscow, Pennsylvania, and concerned about healthcare access? This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options within and from the 18444 ZIP code. This score is not a definitive medical evaluation, but rather a gauge of the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare services. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, offering a nuanced understanding of the local landscape.

The overall health score for 18444, regarding healthcare access, is a moderate 6.5 out of 10. This score reflects a balance between the convenience of car travel and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing, especially for those with mobility challenges or living outside of the town center. The score also acknowledges the potential for improvement in public transportation infrastructure and the availability of specialized medical transport.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

Moscow, PA, is primarily a car-dependent community. The town's layout and the dispersed nature of healthcare facilities necessitate reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. Primary roadways include Interstate 380, a vital artery connecting Moscow to Scranton and the surrounding areas. Interstate 84, accessible via I-380, offers further connectivity to New York and New England. Route 6, running east-west, provides access to regional hospitals and specialists. Local roads like Route 690, and various township roads, offer access to local services.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination. Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, a major regional hospital, is typically a 20-30 minute drive via I-380. Moses Taylor Hospital, also in Scranton, is similarly accessible within a similar timeframe. Smaller clinics and physician offices within Moscow itself offer more immediate access, often within a 5-10 minute drive. However, specialized care, such as oncology or cardiology, often requires travel to Scranton or even further afield, potentially increasing drive times to an hour or more, depending on traffic conditions.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in Moscow are limited. The Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service, but its routes and frequency are not extensive, especially in the more rural areas of the ZIP code. The primary routes serving the area are Route 17 and Route 21. Route 17 primarily serves the Scranton area, while Route 21 offers more limited service to Moscow.

Service frequency is generally hourly during peak hours, with reduced service on weekends and evenings. ADA-accessible buses are available, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, reliance on public transit for healthcare access in Moscow presents challenges. Limited route coverage, infrequent service, and the potential for lengthy travel times can pose difficulties, particularly for those with mobility issues or who require timely medical attention.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Moscow area, though their availability may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Wait times can vary, and the cost of rides can be a factor, especially for frequent trips to healthcare appointments. This is a significant consideration for individuals without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

Medical transportation services are available, providing specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist with patient transfers. Several medical transportation companies operate in the region, including MedStar Ambulance and Care Medical Transport. These services can be crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport. However, these services often require pre-booking and may involve additional costs.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations:**

The availability of healthcare facilities within Moscow is limited. Residents generally rely on facilities in nearby Scranton or other surrounding towns. This necessitates travel, which can be a barrier to healthcare access, especially for those with transportation limitations. The need for specialized care often requires travel to larger medical centers, increasing commute times.

The overall health score is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers. While the region has a good number of primary care physicians, specialists may be less readily available. This can necessitate travel to receive specialized care, further impacting the ease of healthcare access. The cost of healthcare, including transportation costs, must also be considered, as it can impact the overall health score.

**Moving to Moscow: Healthcare Considerations:**

For those considering moving to Moscow, healthcare access is a critical factor to evaluate. While the area offers a relatively safe and affordable lifestyle, potential residents must consider the transportation challenges associated with healthcare. Individuals with mobility limitations or who rely on public transportation should carefully assess the availability and reliability of transportation options.

It's advisable to research the proximity of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. Understanding the drive times and the availability of public transportation is essential. Exploring ride-sharing and medical transportation options is also recommended. Considering the cost of transportation and its impact on healthcare expenses is also vital.

**Conclusion:**

The Overall Health Score of 6.5 for healthcare access in Moscow, PA, reflects a nuanced reality. While car travel offers reasonable access to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing, especially for those with mobility issues, are significant. The availability of medical transportation services provides a valuable resource, but it's important to factor in the associated costs and the need for pre-booking. Potential residents must carefully weigh these factors when assessing the suitability of Moscow as a place to live, particularly if healthcare access is a high priority. The score underscores the importance of transportation planning and the need for continuous improvement in public transit infrastructure to enhance healthcare access for all residents.