18843, South Montrose, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18843, South Montrose, Pennsylvania is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.76 percent of residents in 18843 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 17.80 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18843 (South Montrose, PA)

This assessment provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP code 18843, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services. The score considers various factors, including transportation options, drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-share and medical transport services. Understanding these elements is crucial for residents, particularly those considering **moving to South Montrose**, to ensure they can readily access necessary medical care.

The health score is not a definitive measure of individual health but rather an indicator of the ease with which residents can navigate the healthcare landscape. The score will be presented in a narrative format, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the local transportation and healthcare access infrastructure.

**Transportation: The Lifeline to Healthcare**

Transportation is the cornerstone of healthcare access. In a rural area like South Montrose, the availability and efficiency of transportation options directly impact the ability of residents to reach doctors, hospitals, and other essential medical services. This assessment delves into the specifics of transportation in 18843, providing a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities.

**Drive Times and Roadways: Navigating the Landscape**

The primary mode of transportation in 18843 is personal vehicles. Residents rely heavily on their cars to access healthcare facilities. Drive times are a critical factor, and these vary significantly depending on the destination and the prevailing traffic conditions.

For residents seeking primary care, the drive to the Endless Mountains Health Systems - Barnes-Kasson Hospital in Susquehanna, PA, is a common destination. This trip typically involves traveling on **Route 29** and can take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The road conditions are generally good, though winter weather can pose challenges, increasing travel times and potentially impacting healthcare access.

Specialized medical care often necessitates longer journeys. The drive to Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, PA, a regional hub for advanced medical services, requires traversing **Interstate 81** and can take upwards of an hour, depending on traffic. This longer commute can be particularly challenging for individuals with chronic illnesses or mobility limitations. Residents also utilize **Route 706** and **Route 167** for accessing services in neighboring towns, adding to the complexity of transportation planning.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 18843 are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not own vehicles, are unable to drive, or prefer not to drive.

Currently, there is no established public bus route that directly serves South Montrose and connects it to major healthcare facilities. The nearest public transit options may be available in larger towns like Montrose or Susquehanna, but these services are infrequent and may not be ADA-accessible, posing significant challenges for individuals with disabilities.

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

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the area, but their presence is not guaranteed, and availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This can make it difficult for residents to secure transportation for appointments, particularly in emergencies.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services, are available in 18843. These services are essential for emergency situations and for transporting patients with mobility limitations. However, they are typically reserved for urgent medical needs and are not a viable option for routine appointments.

**Healthcare Access: A Comprehensive Overview**

Healthcare access in 18843 is a multifaceted issue. While the area benefits from a network of local healthcare providers, the limited transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for residents.

**The Role of Healthcare Providers**

Local healthcare providers play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare access. These providers offer primary care services, specialist consultations, and other essential medical services. Their location and accessibility are vital factors in determining the overall health score.

**The Impact of Healthcare Costs**

Healthcare costs can also impact access. The cost of medical care, including transportation costs, can be a significant barrier for low-income residents. This can lead to delayed or missed appointments, resulting in poorer health outcomes.

**The Role of Community Resources**

Community resources, such as volunteer driver programs and community health centers, can help to mitigate the transportation challenges. These resources provide essential support for residents who need assistance with transportation.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving**

Considering the transportation landscape, the overall health score for 18843 is moderate. While residents have access to local healthcare providers, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges.

For individuals **moving to South Montrose**, it is crucial to consider these factors. Those who do not own a car or have limited mobility may face significant difficulties accessing healthcare services. The availability of ride-share services and medical transport options should be carefully evaluated.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the overall health score, several steps can be taken. These include:

* **Expanding Public Transit:** Implementing a public transit system that connects South Montrose to major healthcare facilities.
* **Promoting Ride-Share Services:** Encouraging the availability of ride-share services in the area.
* **Supporting Medical Transport:** Ensuring the availability and affordability of medical transport services.
* **Enhancing Community Resources:** Supporting volunteer driver programs and community health centers.
* **Improving Road Infrastructure:** Maintaining and improving the road infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient transportation.

By addressing these issues, the community can improve healthcare access for all residents, contributing to a healthier and more vibrant community. The ability to easily navigate the **transportation** network is paramount to ensuring that all residents can reach their healthcare providers. The availability of healthcare services and the ease of access are crucial considerations for anyone **moving to South Montrose**. The overall health score reflects the current state of **healthcare access** and highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve the well-being of the community.