18617, Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18617, Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.85 percent of residents in 18617 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berwick Hospital Center with a distance of 10.84 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Glen Lyon, PA (ZIP Code 18617)

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its ability to access essential resources, most notably healthcare. This comprehensive analysis, focusing on ZIP code 18617 (Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania), examines the multifaceted landscape of **transportation** options available for residents seeking medical attention. We will assess the ease of reaching various healthcare facilities, providing an "Overall Health Score" that reflects the challenges and opportunities faced by those living in this rural area. This information is crucial for anyone **moving to Glen Lyon**, ensuring informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs.

Glen Lyon, nestled in the heart of the Wyoming Valley, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its relative isolation and reliance on personal vehicles significantly influence the accessibility of medical services. The "Overall Health Score" will consider factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services, painting a complete picture of the healthcare **access** landscape.

**Drive Times: The Primary Mode of Transportation**

For residents of Glen Lyon, the automobile remains the dominant mode of transportation. The primary arteries connecting Glen Lyon to healthcare facilities are Pennsylvania Route 29 (PA-29) and Pennsylvania Route 11 (PA-11). These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near Wilkes-Barre and Nanticoke.

The drive to Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, a major regional hospital, is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey typically involves navigating PA-29 and Interstate 81 (I-81). The route is generally straightforward, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times, potentially doubling or tripling the commute.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities are located closer to Glen Lyon. The drive to a primary care physician in Nanticoke, for example, might take 10-15 minutes via PA-29. The availability of these local options offers a degree of convenience, especially for routine check-ups and minor ailments. However, specialized care often necessitates longer travel times to larger hospitals or specialist offices.

For those requiring specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, the drive to facilities in Wilkes-Barre or Scranton can extend to 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the destination and traffic conditions. This highlights the importance of considering potential travel times when assessing the healthcare needs of residents.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Glen Lyon are limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service throughout the county, but the routes serving Glen Lyon are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities.

Bus route 9, for example, serves Nanticoke and connects to Wilkes-Barre, but the frequency of service is limited, with buses typically running hourly or less frequently. The travel time on this route can be significantly longer than driving, potentially adding an hour or more to the commute.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is essential for individuals with disabilities. The LCTA is committed to providing accessible services, but the limited route frequency and potential for longer travel times can still pose challenges. Passengers should confirm the accessibility of specific routes and plan their trips accordingly.

The lack of robust public transit options underscores the dependence on personal vehicles for healthcare access in Glen Lyon. This is particularly problematic for those who are elderly, disabled, or lack access to a car.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Wyoming Valley, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services in Glen Lyon may be less reliable than in more densely populated areas. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can also increase the cost of these services.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services are typically reserved for patients who require assistance getting to and from appointments. Ambulance services are available for emergencies, while NEMT services can transport patients to scheduled appointments.

Several medical transport providers operate in the area, including Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare. These services often require prior authorization and may be covered by insurance. The availability and cost of these services should be carefully considered when assessing healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score: Considerations and Recommendations**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Glen Lyon reflects a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities. While drive times to some healthcare facilities are relatively manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create significant barriers for many residents.

The score is influenced by the following factors:

* **Drive Time Reliability:** The reliance on PA-29 and I-81 means that traffic and weather can significantly impact travel times.
* **Public Transit Limitations:** Infrequent bus service and limited route coverage restrict access for those without cars.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** While ride-sharing offers an alternative, its reliability and cost can be concerns.
* **Medical Transport Services:** While available, these services may require prior authorization and may not be suitable for all needs.

**Recommendations:**

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Advocate for increased bus service frequency and route coverage, particularly to healthcare facilities.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Awareness:** Educate residents about ride-sharing options and explore initiatives to improve their availability in Glen Lyon.
* **Support Medical Transport Services:** Ensure that medical transport services are readily available and accessible to those who need them.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Advocate for road maintenance and improvements to minimize traffic congestion and ensure safe travel.
* **Community Education:** Provide residents with information about healthcare options, transportation resources, and insurance coverage.

The "Overall Health Score" for Glen Lyon reflects a community striving to balance its rural character with the need for accessible healthcare. By addressing the challenges and capitalizing on the opportunities, the community can work towards improving the health and well-being of its residents, making it a more attractive place for those **moving to Glen Lyon**. This analysis provides a valuable framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access and identifying areas for improvement.