18635, Nescopeck, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18635, Nescopeck, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.27 percent of residents in 18635 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berwick Hospital Center with a distance of 1.58 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18635 (Nescopeck, PA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Nescopeck, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18635), requires a thorough examination of their access to healthcare. A critical component of this access is the ease and efficiency of transportation. This write-up delves into the various transportation options available, analyzing their impact on healthcare access and ultimately contributing to a comprehensive health score for the community.

The primary challenge for Nescopeck residents lies in its rural character. While offering a tranquil lifestyle, this remoteness significantly impacts healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in surrounding towns and cities, necessitating travel. The overall health score reflects the barriers to healthcare created by these transportation limitations.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

Driving remains the most common method of transportation for accessing healthcare in Nescopeck. The primary roadways serving the area are crucial for understanding commute times. Route 93, a north-south thoroughfare, connects Nescopeck to larger communities like Berwick and Bloomsburg. Travel times to these locations, where hospitals and specialist offices are situated, are typically 15-30 minutes, depending on traffic and destination.

Interstate 80, a major east-west artery, lies just south of Nescopeck. Accessing I-80 via Route 93 or local roads provides a faster route to more distant healthcare facilities in Wilkes-Barre and Hazleton. However, this often involves a 30-45 minute drive, factoring in potential traffic congestion on the interstate. The condition of these roadways, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

The secondary roads, such as Main Street and various township roads, are vital for local travel but can be narrow and winding. These roads are less likely to be cleared quickly after snowstorms, potentially isolating residents and hindering their ability to reach healthcare appointments. The overall health score takes into account the potential for these road conditions to create barriers to care.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Nescopeck are extremely limited. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides some bus service within the county, but its routes and schedules are not designed to serve Nescopeck directly. Residents would likely need to travel to a hub in a larger town to access LCTA services, adding significant travel time and complexity.

The lack of consistent public transportation severely restricts healthcare access for those who cannot drive, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those without access to a personal vehicle. The absence of ADA-compliant buses further exacerbates the challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. This significant gap in transportation infrastructure directly affects the community’s overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural locations. The cost of these services can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The reliability and affordability of ride-sharing are important factors to consider when assessing healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, like those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, provide a crucial lifeline for patients requiring non-emergency medical transport. These services are typically reserved for individuals with specific needs, such as those unable to drive or needing assistance with mobility. The availability and cost of these services are vital for individuals needing specialized healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity and Availability**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a significant factor influencing the health score. While Nescopeck itself does not have a hospital, several hospitals and clinics are within a reasonable driving distance. Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital, UPMC in Williamsport, and Commonwealth Health Wilkes-Barre General Hospital are the closest major hospitals. Accessing these facilities requires careful consideration of transportation limitations.

The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers is also critical. A shortage of healthcare providers in the immediate vicinity of Nescopeck can further compound the challenges of transportation. Residents may need to travel further to find the specific care they require. This distance, coupled with transportation limitations, directly impacts the overall health score.

**Impact on the Overall Health Score**

The overall health score for Nescopeck (18635) is significantly impacted by the limitations in transportation. The dependence on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access. These barriers can lead to delayed or missed appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and poorer health outcomes.

The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. These factors negatively influence the community’s overall health score.

**Moving to Nescopeck: Considerations for Healthcare**

Individuals considering moving to Nescopeck should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options can be a significant challenge. Prospective residents should factor in the drive times to healthcare facilities, the potential costs of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation options.

Understanding the limitations in transportation is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access. The overall health score reflects these challenges, highlighting the importance of considering transportation when evaluating the community's healthcare infrastructure.

**Conclusion**

The overall health score for Nescopeck (18635) reflects the intricate relationship between transportation and healthcare access. The dependence on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing services create significant barriers to care. Addressing these transportation challenges through improved public transportation options, increased ride-sharing availability, and support for medical transport services would significantly improve the community’s overall health score and enhance the well-being of its residents.