18623, Laceyville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18623, Laceyville, Pennsylvania is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.72 percent of residents in 18623 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilkes-Barre General Hospital with a distance of 28.33 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18623**

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Laceyville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18623) requires a deep dive into healthcare access. This necessitates evaluating the ease of transportation to medical facilities, including drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This analysis paints a picture of the challenges and opportunities individuals face when seeking healthcare in this rural community, crucial for anyone considering moving to Laceyville.

The primary factor influencing the health score is the distance to healthcare providers. Laceyville, nestled in Wyoming County, presents a unique landscape where healthcare access is largely dictated by the availability of transportation. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are not within immediate reach, necessitating travel. The primary roadways serving the area are Pennsylvania Route 6 (running east-west) and Pennsylvania Route 309 (running north-south), providing the main arteries for travel. Secondary roads, such as Route 4001 and local township roads, provide access to residences and other destinations.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant consideration. The nearest hospital, Guthrie Towanda Memorial Hospital, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive via Route 6, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This time frame can drastically impact individuals requiring immediate medical attention. Specialty care, such as cardiology or oncology, often necessitates travel to larger hospitals in Scranton or Wilkes-Barre, increasing drive times to one to two hours. This extended travel time negatively impacts the overall health score, particularly for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

Public transportation options are limited in Laceyville and the surrounding areas. The lack of robust public transit systems presents a considerable barrier to healthcare access, especially for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. There is no dedicated public bus route that specifically services Laceyville. The nearest public transportation options are often located in larger towns, requiring individuals to arrange for personal transportation to access these services. This lack of public transportation exacerbates the challenges of healthcare access, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and availability in rural areas like Laceyville are often inconsistent. The availability of ride-sharing services may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some individuals, especially for frequent medical appointments. While ride-sharing offers a potential transportation solution, it cannot be relied upon as a consistent or affordable means of healthcare access for all residents.

Medical transport services offer a critical lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, providing rapid transport to the nearest hospital. However, non-emergency medical transport options, such as those for routine appointments or specialized care, may be limited. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing transportation to medical appointments for those who cannot drive themselves. These services are essential for ensuring healthcare access for individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses.

The absence of readily available healthcare resources within Laceyville itself further complicates the situation. The community relies on the healthcare infrastructure of surrounding towns, increasing the reliance on transportation. This reality contributes to a lower overall health score, as the distance and time required to access medical care can lead to delayed treatment and poorer health outcomes. The lack of local clinics or medical offices necessitates travel, placing an additional burden on residents.

The overall health score for Laceyville (ZIP code 18623) is significantly influenced by the challenges related to transportation and healthcare access. The extended drive times to hospitals and specialized care facilities, coupled with the limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services, create substantial barriers for residents seeking medical attention. While medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline, the overall reliance on external resources highlights the need for improved transportation infrastructure and healthcare accessibility.

For those considering moving to Laceyville, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. The ability to drive or the availability of reliable transportation alternatives significantly impacts the ease of healthcare access. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the transportation options and potential travel times before relocating. The availability of reliable transportation and healthcare access are critical factors in assessing the quality of life in Laceyville.

Improving the overall health score for Laceyville requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes exploring options for expanding public transportation services, increasing the availability of ride-sharing options, and enhancing the coordination of medical transport services. Investing in local healthcare infrastructure, such as establishing clinics or telehealth services, can also improve healthcare access. Addressing these challenges is essential for ensuring that all residents of Laceyville have equitable access to the healthcare they need, ultimately improving the overall health and well-being of the community.