18801, Montrose, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18801, Montrose, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.40 percent of residents in 18801 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 15.62 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in 18801

The quaint borough of Montrose, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Susquehanna County, offers a tranquil escape for those seeking a slower pace of life. For individuals considering a move to this charming locale, understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount. This comprehensive analysis, focusing on ZIP code 18801, provides an "Overall Health Score" by evaluating the ease of commuting to medical facilities, encompassing transportation options, drive times, and available resources.

The score considers the interplay between transportation infrastructure and the presence of essential healthcare services. The ideal scenario involves readily accessible medical care, with minimal travel time and diverse transportation choices. Conversely, a low score indicates significant challenges in reaching healthcare providers, potentially impacting overall well-being and the desirability of residing in the area.

**Driving the Narrative: Roadways and Drive Times**

The primary arteries facilitating transportation in and around Montrose are US Route 6 and US Route 29. These highways serve as the backbone for vehicular travel, connecting residents to neighboring towns and cities where more specialized medical services might be located. The ease of access to these roadways is crucial for residents needing routine check-ups, emergency care, or specialized treatments.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor in the "Overall Health Score." In Montrose itself, the Endless Mountains Health Systems (EMHS) provides a local hospital and various outpatient clinics. Reaching EMHS facilities is generally straightforward, with drive times typically under 10 minutes for most residents within the borough. However, for more specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger medical centers in nearby cities.

For instance, Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, approximately 40 miles east, offers a wider range of medical specialties. The drive to Scranton, primarily via US Route 6, can take around an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Similarly, reaching hospitals in Binghamton, New York, roughly 30 miles north, also necessitates travel via US Route 81 and US Route 17. This journey can take between 45 minutes to an hour, contingent on traffic and the chosen route.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Options**

Public transportation options in 18801 are limited, which significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score." Susquehanna County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This scarcity presents a challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, especially the elderly, those with disabilities, or those unable to drive.

However, the Susquehanna County Transportation Authority (SCTA) offers a demand-response service, providing transportation to medical appointments and other essential destinations. This service operates on a reservation basis, requiring advance notice. While the SCTA can be a lifeline for some, its limited availability and potential for longer travel times, due to the need to accommodate multiple passengers, affect the overall accessibility of healthcare. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of the SCTA vehicles is crucial, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can utilize the service.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Montrose area, offering an alternative transportation solution. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized approach. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) for individuals requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. The cost of these services, however, can be substantial, and the availability of NEMT services can vary.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Perspective**

The "Overall Health Score" in 18801 reflects a mixed picture of healthcare access. While local medical facilities offer convenient access for routine care, the limited public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles for specialized care present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options partially mitigates these challenges, but their cost and availability are factors.

The distance to larger medical centers in Scranton and Binghamton adds travel time, which can be a significant consideration for individuals with chronic conditions or those needing frequent medical attention. The lack of a robust public transit system exacerbates these challenges, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle.

**Moving to Montrose: Considerations for Health and Well-being**

For individuals considering moving to Montrose, understanding the healthcare landscape is essential. While the borough offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the accessibility of healthcare should be a key factor in the decision-making process. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should carefully assess their ability to access medical services.

The "Overall Health Score" for 18801 is moderate, reflecting the advantages of local healthcare facilities but also the challenges posed by limited transportation options and the need to travel to larger medical centers for specialized care. Prospective residents should weigh these factors carefully, considering their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities.

**Conclusion: Evaluating the Score**

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for 18801 reflects a community with both strengths and weaknesses regarding healthcare access. The presence of local medical facilities and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are positive aspects. However, the limited public transportation options and the need to travel to larger medical centers for specialized care present challenges.

The score is further impacted by the drive times to these facilities and the potential cost and availability of alternative transportation methods. Individuals considering a move to Montrose should carefully evaluate their personal healthcare needs and transportation requirements to determine if the existing healthcare infrastructure aligns with their needs. This comprehensive analysis provides a valuable framework for making informed decisions about healthcare access and overall well-being in the borough of Montrose.