18628, Lopez, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18628, Lopez, Pennsylvania is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.28 percent of residents in 18628 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berwick Hospital Center with a distance of 26.78 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Lopez, PA (ZIP Code 18628)

The quaint borough of Lopez, nestled in the heart of Sullivan County, Pennsylvania, presents a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access. While the natural beauty and tranquility of the area are undeniable, the remoteness necessitates a comprehensive understanding of transportation options for residents seeking medical attention. This “Overall Health Score” delves into the realities of commuting to healthcare in ZIP code 18628, examining drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare access for those living in or considering moving to Lopez.

The primary concern for Lopez residents is the distance to the nearest healthcare facilities. The closest hospital, Guthrie Towanda Memorial Hospital, is approximately 30 miles away, a journey that can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The primary route is via **Pennsylvania Route 487 South**, a winding two-lane road that traverses the scenic countryside. This route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Other healthcare options are available, but they also require considerable travel. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA, a larger regional hospital with specialized services, is approximately 70 miles away, a drive that typically takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes, primarily via **US Route 220 South** and **Interstate 80 West**. This longer commute underscores the importance of careful planning and consideration for those with chronic conditions or urgent medical needs. The journey to specialized care can be a significant barrier to healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Lopez are extremely limited. Sullivan County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The absence of public transit presents a significant challenge, especially for individuals who do not drive, are unable to drive, or who cannot afford the costs associated with owning and maintaining a vehicle. This lack of public transit exacerbates the challenges of healthcare access, particularly for the elderly, disabled, and low-income residents.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, but their presence in Lopez is sporadic and reliability is questionable. Availability is often dependent on driver availability, which can be limited in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for regular medical appointments, adding another layer of financial burden to healthcare access. This makes healthcare access even more difficult for those considering moving to Lopez.

Medical transportation services are available, but their availability and coverage area are limited. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, but they often require advance booking and may have restrictions on the types of patients they can transport. Furthermore, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, adding to the overall cost of healthcare.

For those moving to Lopez, the lack of readily available transportation options necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles creates a dependence on car ownership and maintenance. The extended travel times to healthcare facilities require careful planning and consideration for potential delays. This is especially important for those with chronic conditions or frequent medical needs.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in Lopez, PA, is negatively impacted by several factors. The primary challenge is the distance to healthcare facilities, which results in extended travel times. The absence of reliable public transportation and the limited availability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate the problem. The cost and availability of medical transportation services also present challenges.

The reliance on personal vehicles places a significant burden on residents, requiring them to own and maintain a car. The lack of alternative transportation options creates a barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive or cannot afford to own a vehicle. This can lead to delayed or missed appointments, which can negatively impact health outcomes.

The healthcare landscape in Lopez necessitates proactive planning and resourcefulness. Residents need to be aware of the transportation challenges and plan accordingly. This includes scheduling appointments in advance, coordinating transportation with family or friends, and exploring all available options.

Individuals considering moving to Lopez should carefully assess their healthcare needs and the availability of transportation options. They should research the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation. They should also consider the impact of weather conditions on travel times.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in Lopez is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach. Addressing the transportation challenges will require a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, and community organizations. This could involve exploring the feasibility of establishing a local transportation service, partnering with ride-sharing companies, or expanding the availability of medical transportation services.

Ultimately, improving healthcare access in Lopez requires a commitment to providing residents with the resources they need to obtain timely and affordable medical care. This includes addressing the transportation challenges, promoting preventative care, and ensuring that healthcare services are accessible to all residents, regardless of their ability to drive or their financial circumstances.