18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.72 percent of residents in 18655 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berwick Hospital Center with a distance of 7.69 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18655 (Shickshinny, PA)

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 18655, focusing on the crucial aspect of healthcare access. The score considers the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities, encompassing driving times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is paramount for anyone considering moving to Shickshinny, as seamless healthcare access directly impacts overall well-being.

**Driving Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary challenge for healthcare access in Shickshinny stems from its rural location. The community is nestled in a scenic area, but this geographical advantage presents transportation hurdles. Reaching specialized medical care often necessitates travel to larger towns and cities.

The primary artery for accessing healthcare facilities outside of Shickshinny is **Pennsylvania Route 239**, which connects the borough to surrounding areas. However, Route 239 is a two-lane road, and traffic can be slow, particularly during peak hours. Travel times to the nearest hospitals and specialist offices are significantly affected by this.

Heading east, residents can access **Interstate 80**, a major east-west thoroughfare. The closest interchange is approximately a 20-minute drive, offering access to medical facilities in Bloomsburg and Danville. However, the commute involves navigating rural roads, which can be challenging during inclement weather, potentially delaying or even preventing access to urgent medical care.

Traveling west on Route 239, one can reach **Route 11**, a north-south route that provides access to Wilkes-Barre and Scranton. The drive to these cities, where more comprehensive medical services are available, can take upwards of an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Shickshinny are limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service in the region. However, service to Shickshinny is infrequent, with limited routes and schedules.

The LCTA route serving the area, if available, would likely be Route 17, which connects to Wilkes-Barre. This route does not run frequently, and the schedule is often not conducive to medical appointments. The buses are generally equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating.

The lack of frequent public transportation creates a significant challenge for residents, particularly the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those who cannot afford or do not have access to a car. This limitation directly impacts their ability to attend routine check-ups, specialist appointments, and access emergency medical care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Shickshinny is inconsistent. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which is lower in rural areas. This means that securing a ride can be difficult, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for those requiring assistance getting to medical appointments. Several providers operate in the area, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation companies. These services often require advance booking and can be costly, adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

**Specific Considerations and Implications for Moving to Shickshinny:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 18655 is moderate, with significant challenges related to transportation. While the area offers a peaceful and desirable living environment, potential residents must carefully consider the implications of limited healthcare access.

Individuals with chronic health conditions, those requiring frequent medical appointments, or those who rely on public transportation should carefully assess the feasibility of living in Shickshinny. The reliance on personal vehicles, the infrequent public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services can create significant obstacles to timely healthcare.

For those considering moving to Shickshinny, it is crucial to research the location of medical facilities, estimate travel times, and explore the availability and cost of medical transportation services. Understanding these factors is essential for ensuring access to necessary healthcare and maintaining overall well-being.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 18655 is negatively impacted by the following factors:

* **Limited Public Transportation:** Infrequent bus service and limited routes.
* **Rural Location:** Significant travel times to access specialized medical care.
* **Variable Ride-Sharing Availability:** Inconsistent service and potential delays.
* **Cost of Medical Transport:** Can be expensive, adding to the financial burden.
* **Weather Dependency:** Inclement weather can impede travel on rural roads.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize Personal Transportation:** Residents should have access to a reliable vehicle.
* **Plan Appointments Strategically:** Schedule appointments to minimize travel time.
* **Explore Telehealth Options:** Utilize telehealth services for routine check-ups.
* **Investigate Medical Transport Options:** Research and pre-arrange medical transport services.
* **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Support efforts to improve public transportation in the area.

In conclusion, while Shickshinny offers a desirable lifestyle, potential residents must acknowledge the challenges of healthcare access. Careful planning, reliance on personal transportation, and exploration of alternative healthcare options are essential for ensuring access to necessary medical care and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The overall health score for healthcare access in 18655 reflects the need for proactive measures to overcome transportation barriers and ensure the well-being of the community.