18456, Prompton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18456, Prompton, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.00 percent of residents in 18456 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne Memorial Hospital with a distance of 4.49 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Prompton, PA (ZIP Code 18456)

The picturesque borough of Prompton, Pennsylvania, nestled within the embrace of Wayne County, offers a tranquil setting for its residents. However, the serenity of this rural haven presents a unique challenge: healthcare access. Assessing the "Overall Health Score" for Prompton, specifically focusing on healthcare accessibility, necessitates a deep dive into the transportation infrastructure and available resources. This analysis will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport alternatives, providing a comprehensive picture for anyone considering moving to Prompton.

Prompton’s geographic isolation significantly impacts healthcare access. The town is predominantly served by a network of local roads and highways, with the primary arteries being **PA Route 6** and **PA Route 590**. These roads, while scenic, can become congested during peak hours and are subject to the whims of Pennsylvania's unpredictable weather, particularly during winter months. This affects the overall health score, as delays can impede timely access to medical care.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the health score. The nearest hospitals are located in Honesdale, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via PA Route 6. This drive is generally manageable, but any unforeseen circumstances, such as traffic accidents or road closures, can significantly increase travel time. Further afield, Scranton, a major regional medical hub, is roughly an hour's drive away, primarily utilizing **Interstate 84** and **Interstate 380**. This longer journey introduces additional variables, including fuel costs, potential traffic delays, and the overall physical strain on a patient or caregiver.

Public transportation options in Prompton are limited. The primary provider is the Wayne County Transportation Authority (WCTA). While the WCTA offers fixed-route bus services, the routes and frequency are limited, particularly for destinations outside of Honesdale. Service to Prompton is available, but the schedule is not designed for convenient healthcare access. ADA-accessible features, such as ramps and lifts, are available on WCTA buses, but the limited service area and frequency can still present challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. This restricted public transit significantly lowers the health score for those without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the Prompton area, but their availability is not guaranteed. The rural nature of the area and the limited demand can result in longer wait times and potentially higher fares. Relying on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is therefore not a reliable solution, further impacting the health score. Medical transport services, specifically designed for patient transportation, are available in the region. Companies such as Allied Medical Transport and MedStar Ambulance offer non-emergency and emergency medical transportation. These services can be a valuable resource for those unable to drive or utilize public transportation, but the cost can be a barrier to access for some.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Prompton itself is limited. Residents rely on primary care physicians and specialists located in neighboring towns, such as Honesdale, or in larger cities like Scranton. This necessitates travel for routine appointments, specialist consultations, and emergency care, further emphasizing the importance of reliable transportation. The presence of local pharmacies, however, does contribute positively to the health score, providing convenient access to medications.

Factors that influence the health score also include the availability of preventative care services, such as wellness programs and health screenings. The proximity to these services is crucial. The health score is negatively impacted by the limited access to these crucial services in Prompton itself, necessitating travel to other locations.

The overall health score for Prompton, considering healthcare access, is moderate. The primary strengths are the relatively short drive to Honesdale for basic medical needs. The weaknesses include the limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing a wider range of healthcare services. The weather conditions, particularly during winter, can further exacerbate transportation challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Prompton, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Those who are reliant on public transportation or have limited mobility may find it challenging to access the necessary medical care. The availability of medical transport services provides a valuable safety net, but the associated costs must be considered.

The health score is dynamic and can be influenced by various factors. Investments in public transportation infrastructure, the expansion of telehealth services, and the availability of more ride-sharing options could significantly improve the health score. The overall health score is a complex interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and individual circumstances. Moving to Prompton requires careful consideration of these factors to ensure the ability to maintain good health.