18465, Thompson, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18465, Thompson, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.41 percent of residents in 18465 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 7.54 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Thompson, PA (ZIP Code 18465)

This assessment delves into the overall health score for residents of Thompson, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18465), focusing specifically on **healthcare access** and the **transportation** options available to reach medical facilities. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Thompson**, as they directly impact the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. We will explore various modes of **transportation**, analyzing their efficiency, accessibility, and overall impact on health outcomes.

The health score here is not a numerical value, but rather a qualitative evaluation based on the availability and ease of access to healthcare. The challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure, especially concerning **transportation**, will be highlighted. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive overview, enabling informed decision-making regarding healthcare needs.

The primary challenge for Thompson residents lies in its relative remoteness. Nestled in rural Susquehanna County, the area lacks the density of urban centers, which translates to fewer healthcare facilities within immediate proximity. This necessitates reliance on **transportation** to reach hospitals, clinics, and specialists. The health score is therefore heavily influenced by the quality and efficiency of the available **transportation** options.

Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** for healthcare appointments in Thompson. Primary routes include PA-171, a north-south artery, and local roads like Thompson Road and Starrucca Creek Road. The nearest major medical facilities are located in Carbondale and Scranton, Pennsylvania, requiring a drive of approximately 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. These drive times can be significantly impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the harsh winters common in the region.

The condition of the roads is also a factor. While PA-171 is generally well-maintained, local roads can be subject to potholes and uneven surfaces, especially after heavy snowfall or rainfall. This can increase travel time and potentially impact the safety of the journey, particularly for those with mobility issues or chronic health conditions. The need for reliable and well-maintained vehicles is therefore paramount for residents of Thompson.

Public **transportation** options are limited. There is no readily available public bus service that directly connects Thompson to major healthcare providers. This lack of public **transportation** presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive due to age or disability, or are unable to afford the costs associated with owning and maintaining a car. This limits **healthcare access** for a segment of the population.

The absence of robust public **transportation** highlights the importance of exploring alternative options. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area, and while they may be accessible in Thompson, their availability and cost can vary. The reliability of these services, especially during inclement weather or off-peak hours, is a concern.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other private providers offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services can be booked in advance, providing a reliable means of getting to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and the availability of providers in the Thompson area may be limited.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of **transportation** options is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities. While ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** providers typically offer accessible vehicles, the availability may be limited, and advance booking is often required. The lack of accessible public **transportation** underscores the need for careful planning and coordination for individuals with disabilities.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Thompson is moderately challenging. The reliance on personal vehicles for **transportation** presents a significant hurdle for those without access to a car. The limited public **transportation** options exacerbate this challenge. While ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offer alternatives, their cost and availability are factors that can impact **healthcare access**.

The relative remoteness of Thompson also influences the availability of specialized medical services. Residents may need to travel further to access specialists, such as cardiologists, oncologists, or neurologists, further increasing travel time and associated costs. This geographical isolation can also impact the ability to receive emergency care promptly.

The need for proactive planning is essential for Thompson residents. This includes maintaining a reliable vehicle, exploring the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services, and establishing a network of support for **transportation** assistance. Knowing the drive times to various facilities is critical.

For those considering **moving to Thompson**, careful consideration of these **transportation** and **healthcare access** factors is essential. Prospective residents should assess their individual **transportation** needs, evaluate the availability of medical services that meet their needs, and factor in the potential costs and challenges associated with accessing healthcare.

The health score can be improved by community initiatives. Promoting carpooling programs, advocating for increased public **transportation** options, and supporting the expansion of telehealth services could significantly enhance **healthcare access** for Thompson residents. Local healthcare providers can also play a role by offering transportation assistance programs or partnering with ride-sharing services to provide discounted rates.

Ultimately, the overall health score in Thompson reflects the interplay between the physical environment, the availability of healthcare resources, and the effectiveness of the **transportation** infrastructure. While the challenges are real, proactive planning, community support, and ongoing efforts to improve **transportation** and healthcare access can mitigate the obstacles and ensure that Thompson residents can receive the medical care they need.