18832, Monroeton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18832, Monroeton, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.29 percent of residents in 18832 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Troy Community Hospital with a distance of 16.86 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18832 (Monroeton, PA)

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. This report assesses the accessibility of healthcare facilities for residents of ZIP Code 18832 (Monroeton, Pennsylvania), providing an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options, drive times, and the availability of medical transport services. This analysis is crucial for individuals and families considering moving to Monroeton, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

Monroeton, nestled in Bradford County, Pennsylvania, presents a unique challenge concerning healthcare access. The rural nature of the area, coupled with limited public transportation options, necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. The Overall Health Score reflects this reality, factoring in the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical services.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Monroeton is the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the Overall Health Score. The major roadways influencing these times include Pennsylvania Route 220, a vital north-south artery, and US Route 6, which provides east-west access. Local roads like Laning Street and Main Street offer access to local amenities.

The nearest hospital, Guthrie Towanda Hospital, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via PA-220 South. This drive time, while manageable, can be affected by weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Pennsylvania winters. Other healthcare facilities, such as primary care physician offices and specialist clinics, are often located in Towanda, further increasing travel times.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger medical centers in Sayre (Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital) or even further afield to Elmira, New York. These trips can extend drive times to 30-45 minutes or longer, depending on traffic and road conditions. The Overall Health Score considers these extended travel times when assessing the overall accessibility of healthcare.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Monroeton are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The Bradford County Transportation Authority (BCTA) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are restricted, particularly for residents of Monroeton.

The BCTA operates on a demand-response basis, meaning that riders must schedule their rides in advance. This service, while offering some degree of transportation, is not ideal for urgent medical needs. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles, equipped with wheelchair lifts, is limited, potentially hindering access for individuals with disabilities. The lack of frequent and readily available public transportation significantly impacts the Overall Health Score.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent as in more urban areas. Availability can fluctuate, and wait times may be longer, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of ride-sharing services is thus factored into the Overall Health Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a valuable alternative. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services. These services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs.

The availability and accessibility of medical transport are considered in the Overall Health Score. Services like LifeNet and TransCare offer reliable options for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation. However, the need for advance booking and potential costs are acknowledged as barriers to access.

**Specifics: Routes, Brands, and Accessibility**

* **Highways and Roads:** PA-220, US-6, Laning Street, Main Street.
* **Public Transit:** Bradford County Transportation Authority (BCTA) – Demand-response service; ADA-compliant vehicles are available but limited.
* **Ride-Share:** Uber and Lyft (availability may vary).
* **Medical Transport:** LifeNet, TransCare (requires advance booking).

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 18832 is influenced by several factors. The primary reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, combined with the potential for longer drive times to healthcare facilities, lowers the score. The limited public transportation options further contribute to this.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides some improvement, but the potential for inconsistent availability, longer wait times, and associated costs must be considered. The Overall Health Score reflects a balance between these factors, acknowledging the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access in Monroeton.

**Recommendations for Improving the Score**

To improve the Overall Health Score, several steps could be taken. Increasing the frequency and coverage of BCTA bus routes, particularly to key healthcare facilities, would significantly enhance access for those without personal vehicles. Promoting and subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Furthermore, expanding the availability of medical transport services and streamlining the booking process would improve access for individuals with mobility limitations or other transportation barriers. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road maintenance and traffic management, would reduce drive times and enhance the reliability of transportation.

**Conclusion: Weighing the Options for Moving to Monroeton**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Monroeton, PA (ZIP Code 18832), highlights the importance of considering transportation options when evaluating the suitability of the area for relocation. While the community offers a tranquil environment, the limitations in transportation options, especially public transit, require prospective residents to carefully assess their healthcare needs and their ability to access medical services.

The availability of personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical transport provides some flexibility. However, the potential for longer drive times, limited public transportation, and the need for advance booking of medical transport services should be carefully considered. For individuals and families considering moving to Monroeton, a thorough understanding of these factors is crucial for ensuring their health and well-being. The Overall Health Score serves as a valuable tool for making informed decisions about healthcare access in this rural Pennsylvania community.