18810, Athens, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18810, Athens, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.28 percent of residents in 18810 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Robert Packer Hospital with a distance of 1.32 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18810

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone, particularly those contemplating a move to a new community. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for residents of ZIP Code 18810, focusing on the ease and efficiency of transportation to healthcare facilities. This score integrates factors such as drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Understanding these nuances is crucial for informed decision-making, especially for individuals prioritizing healthcare access.

The 18810 ZIP code encompasses a rural area. Its healthcare landscape is characterized by a dependence on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary highways influencing healthcare access are **Interstate 81** and **US Route 6**. Travel times to the nearest hospitals and clinics are significantly impacted by traffic flow and weather conditions, especially during winter months. Local roads, including **Pennsylvania Route 171** and various county roads, offer alternative routes, though they are often winding and less direct.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant factor in the Overall Health Score. The nearest hospital, **Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital** in Sayre, Pennsylvania, is approximately a 30-to-45-minute drive, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and traffic conditions. Specialized clinics and outpatient facilities in larger towns like Scranton, Pennsylvania, require travel times exceeding an hour. These longer commutes can pose challenges, particularly for individuals with chronic health conditions or mobility limitations.

Public transportation options within the 18810 ZIP code are limited. The availability of fixed-route bus services is virtually non-existent. While some regional transportation authorities might offer limited demand-response services, they typically require advance booking and are primarily geared towards essential trips, such as medical appointments. These services may not be readily accessible or convenient for all residents.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial aspect of the public transit evaluation. Given the limited public transit options, the availability of accessible transportation is severely restricted. The lack of accessible infrastructure and services can exacerbate healthcare access disparities for individuals with mobility impairments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as extensive as in more urban environments. Ride availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations within the ZIP code. This unreliability can present challenges for individuals who rely on ride-sharing for transportation to medical appointments.

Medical transport services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transit. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, offering services ranging from basic transportation to specialized medical transport with trained personnel and equipment. These services, however, can be costly, and their availability may be limited depending on the specific needs of the patient.

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 18810 reflects a challenging environment. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, presents significant barriers to healthcare access.

This score is further influenced by the demographics of the community. Older adults and individuals with disabilities, who often have greater healthcare needs, may face disproportionate challenges in accessing care. The lack of readily available transportation options can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially impacting health outcomes.

The cost of transportation is another factor to consider. The expenses associated with driving, such as fuel, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees, can add to the financial burden of healthcare. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can also be substantial, particularly for frequent appointments or long-distance travel.

The availability of telehealth services can mitigate some of the transportation challenges. Telehealth allows patients to receive medical consultations and follow-up care remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on factors such as internet access, digital literacy, and the type of medical care required.

When considering moving to Athens, and specifically to ZIP Code 18810, prospective residents must carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and the transportation options available. Individuals with chronic health conditions or mobility limitations may find it challenging to access healthcare services. It is essential to research the availability of specific medical specialists, the distance to hospitals and clinics, and the reliability of transportation services.

The Overall Health Score for this ZIP code is negatively impacted by the transportation limitations. The score reflects the challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare, particularly for those who lack personal vehicles or face mobility limitations. The limited public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services all contribute to a lower score.

To improve the Overall Health Score, several interventions could be implemented. Expanding public transit options, particularly demand-response services tailored to medical appointments, could significantly enhance healthcare access. Providing financial assistance for transportation costs, such as subsidized ride-sharing or medical transport services, could also alleviate the burden on residents.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and investing in broadband infrastructure could improve access to remote healthcare. These interventions, combined with community-based initiatives to support transportation needs, would contribute to a more equitable and accessible healthcare environment for residents of ZIP Code 18810.

In conclusion, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 18810 is impacted by transportation limitations. While the area offers a degree of healthcare access, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services create significant challenges. Prospective residents, especially those with healthcare needs, should carefully consider these factors when contemplating a move to Athens and the surrounding area.