18847, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18847, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.87 percent of residents in 18847 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 0.94 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18847

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents of ZIP Code 18847, focusing on the critical element of transportation to medical facilities. This score considers the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach necessary healthcare services, a vital component when considering moving to Susquehanna.

ZIP Code 18847, encompassing the town of Susquehanna Depot, Pennsylvania, is nestled in a region characterized by rural landscapes and a dispersed population. This geographic reality significantly impacts healthcare access, making transportation a primary determinant of health outcomes. The overall health score is a composite measure, weighing factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. The score is designed to reflect the practical realities of accessing healthcare within this specific area.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. Assessing drive times to various healthcare providers is, therefore, paramount. The primary thoroughfare within the zip code is Pennsylvania Route 171, which connects to the larger regional network.

The nearest hospital, Barnes-Kasson Hospital in Susquehanna, is a critical resource. Drive times to this facility are generally short, typically under 10 minutes, depending on the specific location within the zip code. This proximity contributes positively to the overall health score, providing relatively quick access to emergency services and inpatient care.

Specialty care, however, often necessitates travel to larger regional medical centers. For instance, accessing specialized services in Binghamton, New York, requires a drive of approximately 45 to 60 minutes, primarily via Interstate 81. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Further afield, major medical centers in Scranton, Pennsylvania, are accessible via Interstate 81 and Pennsylvania Route 6. This trip can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. These longer drive times negatively impact the overall health score, highlighting the challenges faced by residents needing specialized or advanced medical care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 18847 are extremely limited. The Susquehanna County Transportation Authority (SCTA) provides some services, but its routes and schedules are not designed to cater specifically to healthcare needs. Public transit is not a viable option for many residents, especially those with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.

The SCTA may offer demand-response services, which require advance booking and may have limited availability. These services may be able to accommodate those with disabilities, but the overall impact on healthcare access is minimal. The lack of robust public transportation significantly detracts from the overall health score, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is often sporadic and unreliable, particularly in rural areas. Availability can be unpredictable, and wait times can be lengthy. This makes ride-sharing a less-than-ideal option for urgent medical needs or scheduled appointments.

Specialized medical transport services are available, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). Ambulance services are readily available for emergencies, providing critical care and rapid transport to the nearest hospital. However, NEMT services, which cater to individuals needing transportation to routine medical appointments, may have limited capacity and require advance booking. These services can be expensive, posing a financial burden for some residents.

**ADA Accessibility:**

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. While Barnes-Kasson Hospital is fully ADA-compliant, the availability of accessible transportation options remains a challenge. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create barriers for individuals with mobility limitations. The lack of readily available, accessible transportation negatively impacts the overall health score, underscoring the need for improved services.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Considering all the factors, the overall health score for transportation to healthcare in ZIP Code 18847 is moderate. While the proximity of Barnes-Kasson Hospital offers relatively easy access to essential medical care, the limited transportation options for accessing specialty care and the challenges posed by distance and lack of public transit significantly detract from the score.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

Improving healthcare access in ZIP Code 18847 requires a multifaceted approach. Investing in and expanding public transportation services, particularly those tailored to healthcare needs, is crucial. This could involve increasing the frequency and coverage of existing routes, as well as providing dedicated transportation options for medical appointments.

Expanding the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services is another important step. Incentivizing ride-sharing companies to operate in the area and providing subsidies for low-income residents could help to mitigate transportation barriers.

Further, strengthening partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation services is essential. This could involve coordinating transportation services for patients, offering shuttle services to and from medical appointments, and providing financial assistance for transportation costs.

The health of a community is a complex issue, and transportation is a key element. The overall health score for ZIP Code 18847 reflects the challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare. By addressing the transportation barriers, the community can improve health outcomes and enhance the quality of life for all residents, making it a more appealing place for those moving to Susquehanna.