18454, Poyntelle, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18454, Poyntelle, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 18454 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 11.82 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in Poyntelle, PA (ZIP Code 18454)

Understanding the healthcare landscape is crucial when considering a move, especially to a more rural area like Poyntelle, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18454). This comprehensive assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" by examining the accessibility of medical services, focusing on **transportation** options, drive times, and available resources. This information is vital for anyone prioritizing **healthcare access** when contemplating **moving to Poyntelle**.

Poyntelle, nestled in the heart of Wayne County, offers a tranquil lifestyle, but its remote location presents unique challenges in accessing healthcare. The score considers various factors, including the proximity to hospitals, physician offices, specialists, pharmacies, and emergency services. The availability and reliability of **transportation** options significantly influence this score.

The primary mode of **transportation** for most residents is personal vehicles. Driving times to medical facilities are a significant consideration. The nearest hospital, Wayne Memorial Hospital in Honesdale, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, primarily via PA-6 and US-6. While this is generally manageable, inclement weather, common in Northeastern Pennsylvania, can significantly increase travel times, impacting **healthcare access**.

Specialist care often necessitates longer drives. Scranton, a larger city with a wider array of medical specialists, is roughly an hour away via I-84 West and I-380 South. This journey requires careful planning, especially for appointments, considering potential traffic and weather delays. Regular check-ups, physical therapy, or specialized treatments could become significant time commitments.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Poyntelle. The Lackawanna County Transit System (LCTS) does not directly serve the area. This lack of public **transportation** severely restricts **healthcare access** for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities, or those unable to drive. The absence of a reliable public transit system is a significant drawback, impacting the "Overall Health Score."

For individuals with disabilities, the lack of accessible public transit poses a considerable challenge. The absence of ADA-compliant buses or routes further exacerbates this issue. This lack of infrastructure severely restricts **healthcare access** for a vulnerable population.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the region, but their availability and reliability in Poyntelle are variable. While they offer a potential solution for **transportation**, their cost can be prohibitive for regular medical appointments. Furthermore, the response times for ride-share services in rural areas are often longer than in urban centers, which may be problematic in urgent situations.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patient needs, are available but require research. Companies like Care Ride or First Transit Medical Transportation may provide non-emergency medical **transportation**. However, availability and pricing can vary. It is essential to investigate these options thoroughly and establish a plan before **moving to Poyntelle**.

Pharmacies are accessible in Honesdale, requiring a drive along PA-6 or US-6. The availability of prescription refills and the proximity of pharmacies are essential factors in the "Overall Health Score." Consider the potential for delays in obtaining medications due to **transportation** challenges.

Emergency medical services are primarily provided by the local volunteer fire departments and ambulance services. Response times can vary depending on the location within Poyntelle and the availability of emergency personnel. The distance to the nearest hospital, Wayne Memorial, is a crucial factor in emergency situations.

The "Overall Health Score" for Poyntelle, PA (18454) is moderate. While the area offers a peaceful environment and proximity to nature, its rural location and limited **transportation** options present challenges to **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of reliable public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services negatively impact the score.

The score is further influenced by the longer drive times to specialist care and the potential for delays due to weather conditions. Individuals considering **moving to Poyntelle** must carefully assess their **transportation** needs and establish a plan for accessing medical services.

To improve the "Overall Health Score," residents could advocate for increased public **transportation** options, including routes to Honesdale and Scranton. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Furthermore, encouraging the expansion of telehealth services could mitigate the impact of **transportation** limitations.

The score also underscores the importance of proactive healthcare planning. Establishing relationships with local physicians, pharmacies, and medical **transportation** providers before a medical need arises is crucial. Understanding the available resources and their limitations is essential for ensuring timely and effective healthcare.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a static number; it's a dynamic assessment that can be improved through community efforts and individual planning. While the area's rural setting presents challenges, proactive measures can enhance **healthcare access** and ensure residents receive the medical care they need. The decision to move to Poyntelle should include a thorough evaluation of individual **transportation** needs and a realistic assessment of the available healthcare resources.