18657, Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18657, Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.59 percent of residents in 18657 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Dickson City with a distance of 17.42 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Tunkhannock, PA (ZIP Code 18657)

This comprehensive analysis assesses the overall health score for residents of Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18657), focusing specifically on **transportation** options and their impact on **healthcare access**. Moving to Tunkhannock presents a unique set of considerations, particularly concerning the availability and efficiency of reaching medical facilities. This evaluation considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a detailed picture of the challenges and opportunities facing residents in securing timely and convenient healthcare.

The health score reflects the ease with which individuals can access essential medical services, including primary care physicians, specialists, emergency rooms, and pharmacies. Factors like travel time, cost, and accessibility for individuals with disabilities are carefully examined. The goal is to provide a realistic assessment of the healthcare landscape, empowering prospective residents and current community members to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Tunkhannock, nestled in Wyoming County, offers a blend of rural charm and community spirit. However, its geographical location and limited infrastructure present notable hurdles when it comes to healthcare accessibility. The primary mode of transportation for most residents is personal vehicles. This reliance on cars significantly influences the overall health score, particularly for those without personal vehicles or those facing mobility challenges.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary arteries for navigating the region are US Route 6 and US Route 29. These highways serve as the main thoroughfares connecting Tunkhannock to surrounding towns and cities where healthcare facilities are concentrated. Driving to the nearest hospital, Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, involves a journey of approximately 30-45 minutes via US-29 South and Interstate 81 North, depending on traffic conditions. This drive time is a significant factor in the overall health score, particularly for individuals requiring urgent medical attention.

Accessing specialists or other medical services may necessitate longer drives. For instance, traveling to Scranton, a regional hub for specialized healthcare, can take up to an hour via US-6 East. The road conditions, particularly during inclement weather, can further exacerbate travel times and pose additional risks.

Local roads, such as PA-92 and various county routes, provide alternative routes, but these often involve winding roads and slower speeds. These roads are less well-maintained, and can be challenging to navigate, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. The condition of the roads and the distance to healthcare facilities directly impact the overall health score.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Tunkhannock are limited. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides some service, but its routes and frequency are not designed to meet the healthcare needs of all residents. There is no direct public transit to the nearest hospitals. The availability of public transit is a critical component of the health score, especially for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

The LCTA operates fixed-route buses within Luzerne County, but the service area does not fully encompass Tunkhannock. The lack of readily available and reliable public transit significantly diminishes the overall health score, particularly for those with mobility limitations or financial constraints. The absence of ADA-accessible buses on all routes is a major concern, further restricting access for individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, impacting their ability to access healthcare.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available. These services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical attention. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and the availability may be limited depending on demand. The availability and affordability of these services are critical elements in determining the overall health score.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including ambulance services and NEMT providers. These services are essential for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, particularly for those who are unable to drive or lack access to other transportation options. The quality and availability of these services directly impact the health score.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for residents of Tunkhannock (ZIP Code 18657) is moderate, with significant areas for improvement. The primary challenges stem from the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit options, and the potential for lengthy travel times to access healthcare facilities. While ride-sharing services and medical transport options offer alternatives, their availability, cost, and reliability remain concerns.

The health score is negatively affected by the lack of readily available and affordable transportation options. The absence of a robust public transit system and the limitations of ride-sharing services create barriers for many residents, particularly those with mobility issues or financial constraints. The need for improved public transit, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and affordable medical transport options is crucial to improve the overall health score.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the overall health score for Tunkhannock residents, several key initiatives are recommended. Expanding public transit routes and increasing the frequency of service, especially to healthcare facilities, is essential. Ensuring all public transit vehicles are ADA-accessible is also a priority.

Encouraging ride-sharing companies to expand their services in the area and providing financial assistance to residents who rely on these services could also help. Further, promoting the availability and affordability of medical transport services is critical.

Investing in road infrastructure, including improvements to road maintenance and snow removal, will enhance the safety and efficiency of travel to healthcare facilities. Community outreach programs to educate residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources are also essential.

By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, Tunkhannock can improve its overall health score, ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need. This will create a healthier and more vibrant community for everyone.