18622, Huntington Mills, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18622, Huntington Mills, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.17 percent of residents in 18622 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berwick Hospital Center with a distance of 9.39 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18622

The serene landscape of Huntington Mills, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18622), offers a tranquil escape. However, assessing its overall health requires a deeper dive, particularly concerning **healthcare access**. This analysis explores the realities of **transportation** options, a crucial factor in determining health outcomes for residents. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive **Overall Health Score** assessment for this rural community. This information is vital for anyone **moving to Huntington Mills**, ensuring they can readily access necessary medical care.

The primary challenge in 18622 is its geographical isolation. The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in surrounding towns, necessitating travel. The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** are Route 487 and Route 239. Route 487 snakes north-south, connecting Huntington Mills to Bloomsburg and beyond. Route 239, running east-west, offers access to Berwick and Danville. Drive times are heavily influenced by traffic and weather conditions, particularly during winter months.

For routine appointments, residents often face a 20-30 minute drive to Bloomsburg Hospital via Route 487. More specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, may require a 45-60 minute journey to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, primarily utilizing Route 239 and then Route 11. These times can easily double during peak hours or inclement weather, significantly impacting the ability to seek timely medical attention.

Public transit options are severely limited. The lack of a robust public **transportation** system poses a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. While Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides some services, their routes rarely extend into the heart of 18622. The limited coverage makes it impractical for regular medical appointments. ADA-compliant features are available on LCTA buses, but the infrequent service and extended travel times make them a less-than-ideal solution for many.

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in rural areas can be unpredictable. Demand fluctuates, and wait times can be lengthy, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. This inconsistency makes them a less-than-dependable option for urgent medical needs or scheduled appointments. The cost of ride-share services can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical visits.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, offer a crucial lifeline. Companies like Med-Trans and local ambulance services provide non-emergency and emergency medical transportation. These services are equipped to handle patients with mobility limitations and offer door-to-door service. However, they are often more expensive than other **transportation** options, and availability can be limited, particularly during peak demand.

The **Overall Health Score** for **healthcare access** in 18622 is negatively impacted by the limited **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles creates challenges for those without them or those unable to drive. The limited public transit, unreliable ride-share services, and the cost of medical transport services contribute to this.

The distance to healthcare facilities, combined with the challenges of **transportation**, can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially impacting health outcomes. Residents may delay seeking medical attention due to the difficulties of getting to appointments, exacerbating existing health conditions.

The community's demographics also play a role. An aging population, often facing mobility challenges, further increases the need for reliable **transportation** options. Individuals with chronic illnesses may require frequent medical visits, making the **transportation** burden even more significant.

The lack of readily available **healthcare access** can also affect the economic vitality of the community. Residents may be less likely to seek employment or participate in community activities if they are concerned about their ability to access healthcare.

Improving the **Overall Health Score** requires addressing the **transportation** challenges. Investing in expanded public transit routes, particularly those connecting 18622 to nearby healthcare facilities, is crucial. Exploring partnerships with ride-share companies to provide subsidized services for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Supporting local medical transport services and ensuring their availability and affordability is essential. Promoting telehealth services, where appropriate, can also help bridge the gap in **healthcare access**, allowing residents to consult with healthcare providers remotely.

For individuals **moving to Huntington Mills**, understanding these **transportation** challenges is paramount. Prospective residents should consider their **transportation** needs and assess their ability to navigate the existing system. Researching available medical services, including the location of hospitals, clinics, and specialists, is also crucial.

The **Overall Health Score** in 18622 reflects the complexities of rural living. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in **transportation** and **healthcare access** present significant challenges. Addressing these issues through strategic investments in public transit, ride-share programs, medical transport services, and telehealth initiatives is vital to improving the health and well-being of the residents. The ability to access healthcare is a fundamental right, and ensuring equitable access for all residents is essential for a thriving community.