18660, Wapwallopen, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18660, Wapwallopen, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.40 percent of residents in 18660 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berwick Hospital Center with a distance of 10.91 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Wapwallopen, PA (ZIP Code 18660)

The pursuit of optimal well-being is a journey, and for residents of Wapwallopen, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18660), that journey often involves navigating the complexities of **transportation** to access **healthcare**. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the availability and accessibility of medical facilities, factoring in commute times via various modes of travel, and highlighting potential challenges and opportunities for residents. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone **moving to Wapwallopen**, ensuring informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Wapwallopen, nestled in the heart of Luzerne County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The area is predominantly rural, with a sparse population distribution. This geographical reality significantly impacts the availability of local medical services and the **transportation** options available to reach them. While the serenity of rural living is a draw, it is essential to acknowledge the inherent challenges in accessing healthcare.

The primary method of accessing healthcare in Wapwallopen is by personal vehicle. Driving is the dominant form of **transportation**, with the major roadways dictating the flow of traffic. Route 940, a crucial artery, connects Wapwallopen to nearby towns and cities. Route 487 provides access to areas further north, and Route 118 offers a connection to the east. The drive times to the nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are a critical factor in the overall health score.

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, approximately 20-30 minutes away via Route 940 and Interstate 81, is a major healthcare provider for the region. This facility offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and advanced diagnostic capabilities. Another key destination is the Commonwealth Health Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, a similar drive time via Route 940 and the North Cross Valley Expressway.

These drive times, while manageable for many, can be significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak hours. The **transportation** infrastructure, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion. This adds to the stress and potential delays, particularly in emergency situations. The availability of reliable **transportation** is, therefore, a crucial factor in the overall health score.

Public **transportation** options in the area are limited. Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service throughout the county. However, service to Wapwallopen is infrequent, and routes are not directly accessible from all parts of the ZIP code. Route 20, for example, might serve a portion of the area, but its schedule is unlikely to be ideal for medical appointments. The LCTA’s website provides detailed route maps and schedules, including information on ADA accessibility.

The availability of accessible public **transportation** is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities or those who cannot drive. The lack of frequent and convenient public **transportation** options can significantly limit **healthcare access**, impacting the overall health score. The LCTA does offer paratransit services, but these require advance booking and may not be suitable for urgent medical needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region. However, their availability in Wapwallopen may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services is another factor that influences the overall health score.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation**, are available in the area. These services are crucial for individuals who require assistance with **transportation** to medical appointments or in emergency situations. The response times of these services and their coverage area are important factors in the overall health score.

Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the region, including ambulance services and companies specializing in non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive or require assistance with **transportation** to medical appointments. The cost of these services and their availability can significantly impact the overall health score.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Wapwallopen is moderately impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles. The drive times to major medical facilities are generally manageable, but the limited public **transportation** options and the potential for traffic delays can create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** providers offers alternative options, but their availability and cost can be limiting factors.

For individuals **moving to Wapwallopen**, it is essential to carefully consider their **transportation** needs and healthcare requirements. Researching the availability of medical facilities, assessing the accessibility of **transportation** options, and understanding the potential costs associated with these services are crucial steps in ensuring optimal **healthcare access**. The overall health score is affected by the interplay of all these factors.

The availability of telehealth services is another factor that can improve the overall health score. Telehealth allows patients to access medical care remotely, reducing the need for travel. Many healthcare providers in the region offer telehealth services, which can be particularly beneficial for residents of rural areas like Wapwallopen.

The overall health score for Wapwallopen is also influenced by the availability of local healthcare providers. While the area may not have a large number of hospitals or specialized medical centers, the presence of primary care physicians, dentists, and other healthcare professionals in nearby towns can improve **healthcare access**. The proximity of these providers and their ability to provide timely care are important factors.

Finally, the overall health score is influenced by individual factors, such as age, health status, and financial resources. Individuals with chronic health conditions or limited financial resources may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators and financial assistance programs, can help to mitigate these challenges.

In conclusion, the overall health score for **healthcare access** in Wapwallopen, PA (ZIP Code 18660), is a complex assessment. While the area offers access to quality healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public **transportation** options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing, medical **transportation**, and telehealth services, along with the presence of local healthcare providers, can help to improve **healthcare access**. For those **moving to Wapwallopen**, a thorough understanding of these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about their health and well-being.