17751, Mill Hall, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 17751, Mill Hall, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.90 percent of residents in 17751 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Lock Haven with a distance of 3.46 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mill Hall, PA (ZIP Code 17751)

The picturesque borough of Mill Hall, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Clinton County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, for individuals managing arthritis, the serenity can be challenged by the realities of healthcare access. This "Arthritis Score" analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 17751, providing a comprehensive overview of how individuals with mobility limitations can reach essential medical appointments. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Mill Hall, particularly those living with arthritis.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services. It aims to paint a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation infrastructure, ultimately helping potential residents assess the feasibility of maintaining their healthcare needs within this community.

**The Road Ahead: Driving and Drive Times**

For many, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. Mill Hall's location, while offering a sense of seclusion, necessitates understanding the road network and potential travel times to healthcare facilities. The primary artery is **Interstate 80 (I-80)**, a major east-west thoroughfare that provides access to larger medical centers. However, I-80 can be subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak travel times or due to construction, potentially increasing travel times and exacerbating pain for those with arthritis.

**U.S. Route 220** provides a north-south connection, offering another route to access healthcare facilities in the region. **Pennsylvania Route 150** serves as a local road, connecting Mill Hall to nearby towns and offering alternative routes, although these roads may be less well-maintained or have limited shoulder space, potentially posing challenges for drivers with mobility issues.

Drive times to healthcare providers vary. The **Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital**, approximately 15 miles east via I-80, is a common destination, with drive times typically ranging from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. **UPMC Lock Haven Hospital**, located closer, is accessible via PA-150, with a drive time of around 10-15 minutes. For specialized care, such as rheumatology, patients may need to travel further, perhaps to larger facilities in Williamsport (approximately 45 minutes via I-80) or State College (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes via I-80 and US-322). These longer drives require careful planning, considering potential pain levels and the need for rest stops.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Mill Hall and the surrounding area are limited. The **Clinton County Transportation Authority (CCTA)** provides some bus service, but its routes and frequency are restricted, particularly on weekends and evenings. The CCTA operates fixed-route buses, and the availability of routes servicing healthcare facilities in the area is very limited.

The CCTA also offers a demand-response service, which requires advance booking and may have limited availability. This service, while potentially offering door-to-door transportation, may not be ideal for individuals with arthritis due to the need for pre-planning and potential wait times. The buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and wheelchair lifts, to accommodate passengers with mobility impairments. However, the limited service area and schedule may not adequately meet the needs of individuals with arthritis requiring frequent medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Mill Hall area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes them less dependable for scheduled medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with arthritis. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles, and may be equipped to accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility aids.

**Medical Transport Brands**

**First Transit** is a national company that provides NEMT services, and they operate in the area. **LogistiCare** and **Medical Transportation Management (MTM)** are other large companies that may provide services in the region. These services typically require pre-booking and may be arranged through insurance providers or directly with the transportation company. The availability and coverage of these services should be carefully investigated, as they can vary depending on insurance plans and geographic limitations.

**The Arthritis Score: Evaluating Healthcare Access**

The "Arthritis Score" for Mill Hall, PA (17751) reflects a mixed picture. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the transportation landscape presents challenges for individuals with arthritis. Drive times to local hospitals are reasonable, but longer distances to specialized care facilities require careful planning. Public transportation is limited, and ride-sharing services are not always reliable. Medical transportation services offer a viable solution, but their availability and cost should be carefully considered.

For those considering moving to Mill Hall, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is crucial. This includes evaluating the frequency of medical appointments, the type of care required, and the financial resources available for transportation. Prioritizing proximity to healthcare providers, exploring medical transportation options, and understanding the limitations of public transit are essential steps in ensuring adequate healthcare access in this charming, yet transportation-challenged, community.