18463, Sterling, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18463, Sterling, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.82 percent of residents in 18463 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.32 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18463 (Sterling, PA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Sterling, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18463) requires a comprehensive examination of healthcare access, specifically focusing on the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. This analysis considers various modes of transportation, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access, ultimately informing decisions for those considering moving to Sterling and highlighting areas for community improvement.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Sterling is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The primary roadways influencing commute times are Pennsylvania Route 191 (North/South) and Pennsylvania Route 390 (East/West). These routes provide the most direct access to healthcare facilities located outside of the immediate Sterling area. Depending on the destination, drive times can vary significantly. For instance, a trip to Wayne Memorial Hospital in Honesdale, the closest major hospital, typically involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on Route 191.

However, this reliance on personal vehicles presents potential limitations. Individuals without a car, those with mobility issues, or those unable to drive due to age or medical conditions face significant barriers. Furthermore, unpredictable weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can render roads hazardous and extend commute times, potentially delaying or preventing access to essential medical care. The ability to navigate these roadways is critical to healthcare access.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 18463 are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system is a significant factor impacting the overall health score. While the Wayne County Transportation Authority (WCTA) provides some services, the frequency and coverage within Sterling and surrounding areas are restricted. Specific routes and schedules should be researched to determine their suitability for healthcare appointments.

The WCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limited service area and potential for longer travel times compared to personal vehicles remain a concern. This lack of comprehensive public transportation highlights a critical area for improvement in healthcare access within Sterling.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution, particularly for those without personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services in rural areas like Sterling can be inconsistent. Ride-sharing availability often depends on the time of day, the day of the week, and the driver availability in the area.

Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments. The economic implications of relying on ride-sharing for healthcare access must be considered when evaluating the overall health score. The potential for increased costs and unpredictable wait times can significantly impact the ease of accessing healthcare.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), play a vital role in ensuring access to healthcare for individuals with specific medical needs. Ambulance services are readily available in the event of emergencies. However, NEMT services, which provide transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, may have limited availability or require advance booking.

The specific brands and availability of NEMT services in the Sterling area should be investigated to determine their suitability for residents. The reliability and responsiveness of these services are crucial for ensuring timely access to medical care for those who cannot drive or utilize other forms of transportation. The availability of specialized transport options significantly impacts the overall health score.

The location of healthcare facilities in relation to Sterling is a crucial factor. While Wayne Memorial Hospital in Honesdale is the closest major hospital, specialized medical services may require travel to facilities in Scranton or other larger cities. This necessitates longer commute times and potentially increases the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services.

The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within the immediate Sterling area is another critical consideration. A lack of local healthcare providers can significantly increase the burden of transportation, as residents may need to travel further for routine check-ups and specialized care. This impacts the overall health score.

When considering moving to Sterling, potential residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and assess the available transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services should be considered.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 18463 is moderate. While the proximity to Wayne Memorial Hospital is a positive factor, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles present significant challenges. The availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services also require careful consideration.

Improving the overall health score requires a multifaceted approach. Enhancing public transportation options, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and expanding access to NEMT services would significantly improve healthcare access for all residents. Furthermore, attracting more healthcare providers to the Sterling area would reduce the need for long-distance travel.

Community initiatives aimed at promoting carpooling, establishing transportation assistance programs for seniors and individuals with disabilities, and advocating for improved public transit are essential. These efforts would contribute to a healthier and more accessible healthcare environment for all residents of Sterling. The health and well-being of the community are directly linked to the ease of transportation.