18634, Nanticoke, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18634, Nanticoke, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.12 percent of residents in 18634 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilkes-Barre General Hospital with a distance of 8.18 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Nanticoke, PA (ZIP Code 18634)

This assessment delves into the intricate relationship between transportation and healthcare access for residents of Nanticoke, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18634), providing an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities. Considering the diverse needs of the community, this analysis explores various transportation options, offering a comprehensive understanding for current residents and those considering moving to Nanticoke. The goal is to illuminate the realities of healthcare accessibility, crucial for maintaining a healthy and thriving community.

The score will reflect the availability, affordability, and reliability of transportation methods to medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. Factors such as drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability are assessed. This analysis will also consider the needs of individuals with disabilities, ensuring inclusivity in the evaluation.

**Driving Times: The Primary Mode**

For many Nanticoke residents, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments. The efficiency of this method hinges on the road network. Access to healthcare facilities, particularly hospitals, is often determined by the distance and traffic conditions on key routes.

The closest major hospital, Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, is in Plains Township, approximately 9 miles away. The most direct route is typically via **State Route 29 South**, a major thoroughfare connecting Nanticoke to the Wilkes-Barre area. Under normal traffic conditions, the drive time is about 15-20 minutes. However, peak hours, especially during morning and evening commutes, can significantly increase this time, potentially stretching it to 30 minutes or more.

Another frequently utilized route involves **East Main Street** in Nanticoke, connecting to **South Main Street** and eventually merging onto **Pennsylvania Route 11**. This route offers an alternative, but it can be affected by local traffic and intersections. Furthermore, the availability of parking at the hospital and clinics adds another layer to the overall experience.

Specialist appointments may require travel to facilities further afield. For example, accessing specialized care in Scranton, approximately 30 miles away, necessitates a longer drive, often utilizing **Interstate 81 North**. This drive can take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

**Public Transportation: Limited but Present**

Public transportation in Nanticoke, provided by the Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA), offers a limited but essential alternative for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. While the coverage isn’t as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas, it provides a crucial lifeline for some residents.

The LCTA operates several bus routes that serve Nanticoke. Route 18, for instance, connects Nanticoke to Wilkes-Barre, passing through key areas and offering a potential connection to the hospital. However, the frequency of these routes can be a significant challenge. Buses typically run on a schedule, with limited service on weekends and evenings. This can make it difficult to schedule appointments that align with the bus timetable.

The LCTA strives to provide accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities. All buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with mobility impairments. Passengers with disabilities can also apply for the Shared Ride Program, offering door-to-door service for medical appointments. However, this program requires advance booking and may have limited availability.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Expanding Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option, particularly for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle. However, the availability of these services in Nanticoke can be variable. While they are generally available, the response times and pricing can fluctuate depending on the time of day and demand.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Services (MTS) and other regional providers offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring assistance during their journey. However, these services often require advance booking and may come with higher costs.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

Ensuring healthcare access for individuals with disabilities is paramount. The LCTA's commitment to ADA compliance is crucial. The availability of accessible vehicles and the Shared Ride Program are vital components of this effort. However, the accessibility of medical facilities themselves also plays a significant role. Ensuring that clinics and hospitals have accessible entrances, waiting areas, and examination rooms is essential for a truly inclusive healthcare system.

**Overall Health Score: A Holistic View**

The "Overall Health Score" for transportation to healthcare in Nanticoke (ZIP Code 18634) reflects a mixed picture. While driving offers the most direct and flexible option, traffic congestion and distance can pose challenges. Public transportation provides an essential alternative, but its limited frequency and route coverage can be a barrier. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer additional options, but their availability and cost must be considered.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Drive Times:** Moderate, with potential for delays during peak hours.
* **Public Transit:** Limited frequency and coverage, but ADA-compliant.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Availability variable, potentially higher costs.
* **Medical Transport:** Available, but requires advance booking and can be costly.
* **ADA Accessibility:** LCTA provides accessible services, but the accessibility of facilities is variable.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Increase route frequency and extend service hours, particularly on weekends and evenings.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing:** Encourage ride-sharing services to expand their presence in the area.
* **Support Medical Transport:** Provide financial assistance or subsidies for medical transportation services for low-income individuals.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Address traffic bottlenecks and improve road conditions to reduce drive times.
* **Community Education:** Raise awareness about available transportation options and resources.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Overall Health Score" highlights the complexities of accessing healthcare in Nanticoke. While residents have options, the challenges of transportation must be carefully considered. For those moving to Nanticoke, understanding these realities is crucial. The availability and accessibility of healthcare are vital for a healthy community. Addressing the transportation challenges will significantly improve the overall health and well-being of Nanticoke residents, making it a more attractive place to live and thrive.