18518, Old Forge, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18518, Old Forge, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.06 percent of residents in 18518 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Community Medical Center with a distance of 5.26 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in 18518 (Old Forge, PA)

The picturesque borough of Old Forge, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18518), known for its iconic pizza, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health. This assessment considers the crucial element of **healthcare access**, specifically focusing on **transportation** options available to residents seeking medical care. Evaluating these avenues provides a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for the community, reflecting the ease with which residents can access vital medical services. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals and families **moving to Old Forge**, as it directly impacts their ability to maintain and improve their well-being.

The 'Overall Health Score' considers several factors: drive times to various healthcare facilities, the availability and efficiency of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transportation options. Each element is weighted based on its impact on healthcare accessibility, with a higher score indicating superior access. The final score is presented as a composite, reflecting the overall ease or difficulty in reaching necessary medical care.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

For many Old Forge residents, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. Understanding drive times to hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices is paramount. The primary arteries connecting Old Forge to surrounding areas include Interstate 81 (I-81), the major north-south thoroughfare, and the more local roads like Route 6 and Route 307. These routes are subject to traffic, especially during peak hours, which can significantly impact travel times.

The closest major hospital, Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, is typically a 15-20 minute drive via I-81 South. This drive is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion near the city limits can add to the travel time. For specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, residents may need to travel further. The drive to the University of Pennsylvania Health System in Scranton, for instance, may take 20-25 minutes.

Smaller clinics and primary care physician offices are scattered throughout the region, offering more localized options. The drive to these facilities varies depending on location, but typically falls within a 5-15 minute range. Residents should consider the potential for seasonal weather conditions, especially snow and ice, which can significantly increase travel times and pose safety risks during the winter months. This is a key consideration for those **moving to Old Forge**.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in the 18518 ZIP code are limited. The Lackawanna County Transit System (LCTS) provides bus service within the Scranton area, including some routes that may serve Old Forge. However, the frequency of these routes and their coverage within the borough are limited.

The primary bus route serving Old Forge is likely Route 17, which connects the borough to downtown Scranton. This route may offer some access to medical facilities located near the city center, but the frequency of service may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. Additionally, the route may not directly serve all medical facilities, requiring transfers or walking, which can be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations.

The LCTS does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transit system. However, the limited scope of the network, coupled with potential wait times and travel durations, presents a significant challenge for those relying on public transportation for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Scranton area, including Old Forge. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive themselves. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and demand, potentially leading to longer wait times or higher fares.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, play a critical role in ensuring access to healthcare for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services can provide transportation to and from medical appointments, as well as to and from hospitals and other healthcare facilities.

Several medical transportation brands operate in the Scranton area, including local ambulance companies and NEMT providers. These services typically require advance booking, and the cost can vary depending on the distance and the level of care required. It is crucial for residents to research and understand the availability and cost of these services, especially for those with chronic health conditions or limited mobility.

**Overall Health Score: A Composite View**

Considering the factors discussed, the 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in 18518 reflects a mixed picture. While the drive times to major hospitals and clinics are generally reasonable, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers offers alternative solutions, but these options may be subject to cost and availability constraints.

The score is further impacted by the need to navigate I-81, Route 6 and Route 307, which can be affected by traffic and weather conditions. Residents **moving to Old Forge** should carefully consider these factors when assessing their healthcare needs and planning their transportation strategies.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

To improve the 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in 18518, several strategies could be implemented. Expanding the LCTS bus routes and increasing their frequency would enhance public transit options. Promoting the use of ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers through community outreach programs could also improve access.

Furthermore, encouraging the development of more healthcare facilities within the borough or in close proximity would reduce drive times and improve convenience. The establishment of a community health center in Old Forge would be a significant asset, providing primary care services and potentially offering transportation assistance for residents.

In conclusion, while Old Forge offers generally good healthcare access, the 'Overall Health Score' highlights areas for improvement. By understanding the available transportation options, the potential challenges, and the opportunities for enhancement, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and advocate for improvements in the community. The assessment is especially valuable for those considering **moving to Old Forge**, providing a realistic view of the healthcare landscape and helping them prepare for their future health needs.