18627, Lehman, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18627, Lehman, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 18627 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Community Medical Center with a distance of 13.82 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Lehman, PA (ZIP Code 18627)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Lehman, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18627) necessitates a comprehensive examination of healthcare access, heavily influenced by the available transportation options. This analysis considers factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport alternatives, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by those seeking medical care in this rural community. The ultimate goal is to understand the ease with which residents can reach necessary healthcare services, directly impacting their overall well-being.

Lehman Township, nestled within Luzerne County, presents a unique scenario. Its relative remoteness dictates that transportation plays a crucial role in healthcare access. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are **Interstate 81 (I-81)**, a major north-south corridor, and **Pennsylvania Route 118**, a key east-west thoroughfare. These routes, along with smaller roads like **Jackson Road** and **Lake Lehman Road**, form the transportation network residents rely upon to reach medical facilities.

Drive times to healthcare facilities from Lehman are a critical component of the health score. The nearest hospitals, such as Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township and Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, are typically accessible within a 20-40 minute drive, depending on traffic and the specific location within Lehman. These times can fluctuate significantly during peak hours or inclement weather, potentially delaying urgent care and exacerbating health concerns.

Public transit options in the area are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus services, but routes serving Lehman are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities. Service frequency and route coverage are key limitations. The lack of ADA-accessible features on all routes could also present a barrier for individuals with disabilities.

The LCTA does offer some routes, such as the **Route 17** that may offer some access to the city of Wilkes-Barre, but the schedule and stops are not always convenient for medical appointments. Residents must often rely on personal vehicles, carpooling, or ride-sharing services to bridge the gap in public transportation.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton metropolitan area, including Lehman. However, their availability and cost can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand. The cost of a ride-share can be a significant financial burden for some, further impacting healthcare access. The reliance on these services also highlights the need for improved public transportation options.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. Companies such as Care Trans and MedStar offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, providing door-to-door assistance for medical appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and can be subject to availability and insurance coverage, adding another layer of complexity to the healthcare journey.

For residents of Lehman, the ability to independently manage their transportation needs is paramount. The absence of convenient public transit, combined with the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services, underscores the importance of personal vehicles. This reality creates an accessibility disparity for those who cannot drive, do not own a car, or are otherwise reliant on external transportation.

Considering the transportation landscape, the overall health score for Lehman residents is moderately impacted. While the drive times to nearby hospitals are generally manageable, the limitations in public transit, the fluctuating availability and cost of ride-sharing, and the logistical complexities of medical transport services pose significant challenges. The lack of diverse transportation options disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

Moving to Lehman requires careful consideration of these transportation factors. Prospective residents should assess their healthcare needs and transportation options accordingly. The availability of reliable transportation is a crucial element in maintaining a healthy lifestyle in this community.

Furthermore, the physical condition of the roads and highways also impacts healthcare access. Potholes, poor road maintenance, and winter weather conditions can increase travel times and create hazards for drivers, especially those with medical conditions. Regular road maintenance and efficient snow removal are vital for ensuring safe and timely access to healthcare.

The development of new infrastructure, such as improved public transit routes or the expansion of ride-sharing services, could significantly improve the health score for Lehman residents. Initiatives that promote carpooling, shared mobility, or the establishment of community transportation programs could also help bridge the transportation gap.

The healthcare landscape in the area also plays a role. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within a reasonable distance from Lehman is crucial. Proximity to pharmacies, diagnostic centers, and other healthcare-related services further enhances the overall health score.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of Lehman, PA (ZIP code 18627) is influenced by a complex interplay of transportation factors. While drive times to healthcare facilities are generally reasonable, the limitations in public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the logistical challenges of medical transport services create accessibility barriers. Addressing these transportation challenges through infrastructure improvements, community-based programs, and healthcare service enhancements is crucial for improving the health and well-being of Lehman residents.