18840, Sayre, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18840, Sayre, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.96 percent of residents in 18840 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Robert Packer Hospital with a distance of 0.87 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Sayre, PA (ZIP Code 18840)

Considering a move to Sayre, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18840)? Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount for overall well-being. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of transportation options available to residents seeking medical care, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. We will delve into the specifics, allowing prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare access.

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite metric, considering factors like travel time, accessibility, cost, and the availability of various transportation modes. A higher score indicates better healthcare access. This assessment is particularly relevant for individuals with chronic conditions, those requiring frequent medical appointments, or families with young children or elderly members. The evaluation will also consider the local infrastructure and the specific healthcare facilities serving the Sayre area.

### Drive Times and Road Infrastructure

Sayre's location in Bradford County presents unique transportation challenges. While the town itself is relatively compact, accessing specialized medical services often requires travel. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are US Route 220, Pennsylvania Route 17, and local roads.

Driving is the most common mode of transportation. The Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, is located in Sayre. Residents can generally reach this facility within a few minutes, offering immediate healthcare access. However, specialized care, such as advanced cardiology or oncology, may necessitate travel to larger medical centers in nearby cities.

Traveling to larger hospitals in Elmira, New York, or Binghamton, New York, requires navigating the US Route 220 corridor. Drive times to these cities can range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Pennsylvania Route 17, though offering a more direct route to some destinations, can experience congestion during peak hours.

The condition of the roads is generally good, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, potentially delaying or preventing access to healthcare. Prospective residents should consider the impact of seasonal weather on their ability to reach medical appointments.

### Public Transit: A Limited Option

Public transportation options in Sayre are limited. The Bradford County Transit Authority (BCTA) provides some bus services within the county. However, routes and schedules are designed to serve local needs, and direct routes to healthcare facilities outside of Sayre may be infrequent or non-existent.

The BCTA offers ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limited route network and frequency of service make public transit a less viable option for many residents, especially those needing to travel outside of Sayre for specialized care. The lack of comprehensive public transportation is a significant factor impacting the "Overall Health Score."

Information on specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility can be found on the Bradford County Transit Authority website. Prospective residents should carefully review the available routes and schedules to determine if public transit meets their healthcare needs.

### Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Sayre area, offering an alternative to driving. However, the availability of these services can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments requires careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Medical transport services are available for individuals who require assistance with transportation due to medical conditions. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, offer a safe and reliable means of getting to and from medical appointments. However, these services can be expensive and may require pre-booking.

Several medical transport providers serve the Sayre area, including local ambulance services and regional transport companies. Prospective residents should research the available options and understand the costs and coverage of these services.

### Healthcare Access: A Comprehensive View

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Sayre, PA (18840) is moderately impacted by the transportation options. While the presence of the Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre provides immediate access to healthcare, the limited public transit options and reliance on driving for specialized care impact the score.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options offers additional support, but the cost and reliability of these services should be considered. The location of Sayre, while offering a pleasant environment, does require residents to consider transportation options for healthcare access.

The "Overall Health Score" can be improved by focusing on several key areas. Expanding public transit routes and increasing service frequency could significantly enhance healthcare access. Promoting ride-sharing services and ensuring their availability during all hours is another crucial step.

### Evaluating the Score

The "Overall Health Score" for Sayre, PA (18840) is a reflection of the balance between the local healthcare resources and the available transportation options. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual healthcare needs and assess the suitability of the available transportation options.

For individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments, the reliance on driving or the potential for delays due to weather or service availability should be carefully considered. The availability of medical transport services offers a reliable option, but the cost and pre-booking requirements should be factored into the decision-making process.

### Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision

Moving to Sayre presents a unique lifestyle. Access to healthcare is a crucial factor in any relocation decision. While Sayre offers local healthcare options, the need to travel for specialized care and the limitations of public transit should be considered.

This report provides a detailed overview of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. By considering the drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, prospective residents can make an informed decision about whether Sayre is the right place for them. The "Overall Health Score" aims to provide a clear picture of the healthcare access landscape, empowering individuals to prioritize their health and well-being when considering a move to this vibrant community.