18935, Milford Square, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18935, Milford Square, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.19 percent of residents in 18935 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Lukes Quakertown Hospital with a distance of 2.91 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Milford Square (ZIP Code 18935)

The pursuit of optimal health hinges on numerous factors, with convenient access to healthcare services standing as a cornerstone. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP code 18935, Milford Square, Pennsylvania, to assess the ease with which residents can access necessary medical care. We will explore drive times, public transportation options, and ride-sharing services, ultimately providing an "Overall Health Score" that reflects the accessibility of healthcare within this community. This information is especially pertinent for those considering **moving to Milford Square**, as it directly impacts their ability to maintain their well-being.

The geographical layout of Milford Square, nestled in Upper Saucon Township, significantly influences healthcare access. The primary thoroughfare, **Pennsylvania Route 663**, serves as a crucial artery, connecting residents to surrounding towns and healthcare facilities. However, relying solely on this road can lead to challenges, especially during peak hours. **Drive times** become a critical consideration, directly impacting the "Overall Health Score."

For residents seeking primary care physicians, the proximity of facilities in Quakertown and Coopersburg is a significant advantage. A drive to St. Luke's Quakertown Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 10-15 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, this time can easily double during rush hour, particularly on **Pennsylvania Route 663** and the connecting roads. Similarly, accessing urgent care facilities in these towns is generally feasible within a similar timeframe.

Specialized healthcare, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced diagnostics, often necessitates travel further afield. The commute to major hospitals in Allentown, like Lehigh Valley Hospital – 17th Street, can range from 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic congestion on **Interstate 78** and **Pennsylvania Route 309**. This longer travel time introduces potential delays in receiving timely medical attention, potentially affecting the overall health outcomes for residents. The "Overall Health Score" will reflect the impact of these extended drive times.

Public transportation options in Milford Square are limited, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The **LANTA (Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority)** provides bus service in the surrounding areas, but its coverage within ZIP code 18935 is sparse. The availability of routes, their frequency, and accessibility features like ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance are crucial.

Currently, the primary LANTA routes serving the area are limited, and their frequency may not be sufficient for regular medical appointments. While specific route numbers and schedules are subject to change, it is essential to investigate the current LANTA offerings, paying close attention to the stops closest to residential areas and healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses is paramount for individuals with mobility limitations, ensuring equitable **healthcare access**. The lack of robust public transportation significantly lowers the "Overall Health Score" for those who depend on it.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially mitigating the challenges of limited public transit and personal vehicle ownership. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing in Milford Square can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability.

The cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier to **healthcare access** for some residents, especially for frequent appointments or those with limited financial resources. Furthermore, the reliability of these services, particularly during inclement weather or peak hours, is a crucial factor. While ride-sharing can enhance the "Overall Health Score," its impact is tempered by its cost and dependability.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, are available in the region. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those needing transportation to specialized medical appointments. Brands like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation.

The availability and responsiveness of these services directly impact the "Overall Health Score" for individuals with specific needs. However, it is crucial to investigate the insurance coverage for these services and the potential out-of-pocket expenses. The reliance on these services can also influence the overall cost of healthcare.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Milford Square (ZIP code 18935) presents a mixed picture. While the proximity to primary care and urgent care facilities in neighboring towns offers a significant advantage, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options pose challenges. The extended drive times to specialized healthcare providers in Allentown, coupled with the potential cost and availability constraints of ride-sharing services, further impact the score.

The accessibility of healthcare is a crucial factor for anyone **moving to Milford Square**. The "Overall Health Score" is not solely determined by the physical distance to healthcare facilities. It encompasses the ease, cost, and reliability of transportation options.

To arrive at a final score, a weighted average of the factors is required. Drive times, particularly during peak hours, are given the highest weight, as they directly impact the timeliness of medical care. The availability and frequency of public transportation, along with its ADA compliance, are also heavily weighted. The cost and reliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport, are also considered.

Given the limitations in public transportation, the potential for extended drive times during peak hours, and the reliance on personal vehicles, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Milford Square (ZIP code 18935) is moderate. Residents with personal vehicles have relatively good access to primary and urgent care. However, those without vehicles or with limited mobility may face significant challenges. The score can be improved by increasing public transportation options, promoting ride-sharing initiatives, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport services. This score is a snapshot of the current situation and will likely change as the community evolves.