18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.05 percent of residents in 18704 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilkes-Barre General Hospital with a distance of 1.69 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18704

Kingston, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 18704 ZIP code, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern living. However, the ease with which residents can access vital healthcare services significantly impacts their overall well-being. This report analyzes the transportation landscape, evaluating the accessibility of medical facilities and providing an "Overall Health Score" to guide potential residents and inform community initiatives. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is the ability to reach medical providers promptly. Drive times within and around 18704 are crucial. Residents can utilize several major roadways. The primary arteries include the North Cross Valley Expressway (PA-309), a vital north-south route, and the Wyoming Valley Expressway (I-81), offering access to a broader regional network. Local roads like Market Street and Wyoming Avenue provide direct connections to healthcare facilities within Kingston and neighboring communities.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on location and time of day. For instance, a trip to Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, a major regional hospital, typically takes approximately 5-10 minutes via PA-309 or Market Street during off-peak hours. However, during rush hour, this commute can extend to 15-20 minutes. Similarly, reaching smaller clinics and specialist offices located in Wilkes-Barre, across the Susquehanna River, might involve a 10-15 minute drive via the Market Street Bridge or the Veterans Memorial Bridge, again influenced by traffic conditions.

Public transportation, while available, presents limitations. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service throughout the Wyoming Valley. Several routes serve the 18704 ZIP code, including routes that travel along Wyoming Avenue and connect to major healthcare hubs. However, the frequency of these routes can be a challenge, with buses often running at less frequent intervals, especially during evenings and weekends. This can significantly impact healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of public transit is a critical consideration. LCTA buses are equipped with features such as ramps and lifts to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, the availability of accessible infrastructure at all bus stops and the overall ease of navigating the system for individuals with disabilities require ongoing evaluation and improvement. This is especially important for those moving to Kingston who may have specific healthcare needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. Their availability is generally good within the 18704 ZIP code, particularly during peak hours. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited financial resources. This is something to keep in mind when considering healthcare access.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other specialized care. Several companies operate in the Kingston area, including local providers and national brands. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive themselves or rely on public transportation due to medical conditions. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 18704 is influenced by several factors. Drive times, while generally manageable, are subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Public transportation, while present, faces limitations in terms of frequency and coverage. Ride-sharing services offer convenience but may be cost-prohibitive for some. Medical transportation services provide specialized support but can vary in availability and cost.

Considering these factors, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 18704 is a **7 out of 10**. This score reflects a generally good level of access, but with areas for improvement. The score acknowledges the availability of multiple transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport. However, it also recognizes the potential challenges posed by traffic, the limitations of public transit frequency, and the cost of ride-sharing and specialized services.

For those moving to Kingston, understanding this "Overall Health Score" is crucial. It highlights the importance of considering transportation options when choosing a residence. Proximity to major roadways, bus routes, and healthcare facilities can significantly impact healthcare access. Individuals with specific healthcare needs should carefully evaluate the availability and accessibility of specialized transportation services.

Furthermore, the community can work to improve healthcare access. This could involve advocating for increased public transit frequency, particularly during evenings and weekends. Collaborating with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for low-income individuals. Supporting the expansion of medical transportation services. Promoting the development of healthcare facilities within the 18704 ZIP code.

In conclusion, the 18704 ZIP code offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, reflected in the "Overall Health Score" of 7. Residents can generally reach medical facilities within a reasonable timeframe, utilizing a variety of transportation options. However, challenges remain, particularly regarding public transit frequency and the cost of alternative transportation services. By understanding these factors and working to improve the transportation landscape, the community can enhance healthcare access and contribute to the overall well-being of its residents. This is a key factor for anyone considering moving to Kingston.