18472, Waymart, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18472, Waymart, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.85 percent of residents in 18472 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.59 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Waymart, PA (ZIP Code 18472)

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount when evaluating a community's overall health. This report analyzes the transportation landscape in Waymart, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18472), focusing on the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. This 'Overall Health Score' considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, providing a comprehensive picture for potential residents and stakeholders interested in healthcare access.

Waymart, nestled in the heart of Wayne County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare transportation. Its rural character, while offering tranquility, often translates to longer distances to specialized medical facilities. This necessitates a thorough examination of the available transportation infrastructure. The following analysis will illuminate the complexities of navigating the healthcare landscape in Waymart, offering insights into the practicality of accessing vital medical care.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

The primary mode of transportation in Waymart is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The road network, while relatively well-maintained, dictates travel times. For general medical needs, such as a primary care physician, residents typically rely on local practices. Drive times to these facilities are generally manageable, often within a 15-20 minute radius. However, accessing specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced imaging, requires traveling further afield.

The primary thoroughfare connecting Waymart to larger population centers is **Route 6**. This major highway provides access to Scranton, approximately 30 miles away, where a wider array of healthcare options exists. Driving to Scranton can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. **Route 296** and **Route 370** serve as secondary routes, connecting Waymart to neighboring towns and facilitating access to various medical services. These roads, while offering alternative routes, may involve slower travel due to their more rural nature and potential for winding sections.

For emergencies, the drive time to the nearest hospital, Wayne Memorial Hospital in Honesdale, is crucial. This journey, typically via **Route 6**, can take approximately 20-25 minutes. This relatively short drive time is a significant advantage for Waymart residents, ensuring timely access to emergency medical services. However, the reliability of this drive time is contingent on weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, when snow and ice can significantly impact travel.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Waymart are limited. Wayne County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. The primary mode of public transportation is the Wayne County Transportation Authority (WCTA). The WCTA offers demand-response services, meaning residents must schedule rides in advance. This service is available to all residents, but it is particularly important for individuals who cannot drive, including seniors and those with disabilities.

The WCTA operates with ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. While the WCTA provides a vital service, its operational scope is limited. The availability of rides is dependent on scheduling and the overall demand for services. Furthermore, the WCTA may not offer direct routes to all healthcare facilities, necessitating transfers or longer travel times. Information about the WCTA can be found online.

The lack of a robust public transit system represents a significant challenge to healthcare access in Waymart. Individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive must rely heavily on the WCTA, which may not always meet their specific transportation needs. This limitation underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation options.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Scranton area, but their presence in Waymart is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density and demand. While ride-sharing can offer a convenient transportation solution, it is not always reliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially for longer trips to specialized medical facilities.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. Ambulance services are readily available for emergency situations. NEMT services cater to individuals who require transportation to medical appointments but do not require emergency medical care. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often with assistance from trained personnel.

Several medical transport brands operate in the Wayne County area. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility criteria. While these services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility issues or those unable to drive, they may be subject to availability and cost considerations. The use of these services will increase the overall cost of transportation, which can impact healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Waymart, PA (ZIP Code 18472) reflects a mixed picture. The relatively short drive time to Wayne Memorial Hospital for emergency care is a significant positive factor. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit options, and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing services create challenges.

The absence of a robust public transportation system and the dependence on pre-scheduled services, such as the WCTA, pose barriers for individuals without personal vehicles. The availability and affordability of medical transport services are crucial for those with mobility limitations.

**Conclusion:**

For individuals considering moving to Waymart, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is essential. While the community offers a tranquil environment and a relatively short drive to emergency care, the lack of comprehensive public transit and the potential for limited ride-sharing services require careful consideration.

Residents should proactively explore their transportation options, including the WCTA, medical transport services, and the availability of ride-sharing, to ensure they can reliably access necessary medical care. The overall health score is diminished by the limitations in transportation. Future initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access in Waymart should prioritize enhancing public transportation, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring the affordability and accessibility of medical transport options. This holistic approach will contribute to a healthier and more accessible community for all residents.