18825, Jackson, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18825, Jackson, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.72 percent of residents in 18825 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 8.84 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18825

ZIP Code 18825, encompassing the charming town of Jackson, Pennsylvania, presents a unique landscape when considering overall health and, critically, access to healthcare. The area’s rural character, while offering tranquility and natural beauty, significantly impacts the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. This write-up delves into the transportation infrastructure, healthcare access points, and available options for navigating the healthcare landscape, ultimately providing an "Overall Health Score" assessment for the region.

Jackson's health score is inextricably linked to its transportation infrastructure. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are **Interstate 81 (I-81)**, running north-south, and **U.S. Route 6 (US-6)**, an east-west thoroughfare. These highways are crucial for reaching larger medical centers outside the immediate vicinity. Local roads, such as **Pennsylvania Route 374 (PA-374)** and various county roads, provide access within Jackson and connect to the major routes. However, these roads can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, especially during the harsh Pennsylvania winters, potentially impacting travel times and safety.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. Within Jackson itself, immediate healthcare options might be limited to a family practice or a small clinic. For more specialized care, residents typically need to travel to larger towns and cities. **Geisinger Community Medical Center** in Scranton, approximately 30-45 minutes away via I-81, is a major healthcare provider. **Robert Packer Hospital** in Sayre, roughly an hour and fifteen minutes away via US-6 and PA-171, offers another significant option. These drive times, while manageable for routine appointments, can be stressful and potentially life-threatening in emergencies.

Public transportation options are a less prominent feature of Jackson's healthcare access. The area is not served by an extensive public transit system. Limited bus services might be available, primarily connecting to larger towns, but their routes and schedules might not be conducive for frequent healthcare visits. Details on specific routes, bus numbers, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features are difficult to ascertain without consulting local transit authorities. This lack of comprehensive public transit presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can fluctuate. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which may be lower in rural areas like Jackson. The cost of ride-sharing for longer trips to healthcare facilities can be substantial, adding a financial burden to healthcare access. Medical transportation services, like **CareRide** or **MedTrans**, are also available for non-emergency medical transport. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, their availability and coverage area need to be confirmed with the specific provider.

Healthcare access extends beyond the physical journey. The availability of specialists, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the cost of care all play a crucial role. Jackson residents need to consider whether the healthcare providers they need are located within a reasonable travel distance and whether they accept their insurance. The presence of telehealth options can mitigate some of the transportation challenges, allowing for virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 18825 is, therefore, moderately impacted by its transportation infrastructure. While the major highways offer relatively quick access to larger medical centers, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential cost and availability challenges of ride-sharing services all contribute to a less-than-ideal score. Residents must carefully plan their healthcare journeys, considering factors such as weather conditions, appointment times, and potential traffic delays.

The challenges are particularly pronounced for individuals with mobility limitations, those without access to a vehicle, and those facing financial constraints. These individuals might experience significant difficulties in accessing timely and appropriate healthcare. The distance to specialized medical facilities, coupled with the limitations in public transportation, can create a barrier to care, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and poorer health outcomes.

For individuals considering **moving to Jackson**, Pennsylvania, understanding these transportation and healthcare access factors is crucial. Prospective residents should assess their healthcare needs and consider the implications of the commute times and transportation options. They should also investigate the availability of healthcare providers within the region, including specialists and the acceptance of their insurance plans.

The healthcare landscape in Jackson is evolving. Efforts to improve healthcare access, such as the expansion of telehealth services and the potential for increased ride-sharing partnerships, could positively impact the overall health score. However, significant improvements in public transportation infrastructure would be necessary to substantially enhance healthcare access for all residents.

The final “Overall Health Score” for commuting to healthcare in 18825 is a 6 out of 10. This score reflects the moderate accessibility, balanced by the need for personal vehicles, the potential for long drive times, and the limited availability of alternative transportation options. The score highlights the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure that residents can access the healthcare they need when they need it. Further investment in transportation infrastructure, particularly public transit, and the expansion of telehealth services could significantly improve this score and contribute to a healthier community in Jackson.