17814, Benton, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 17814, Benton, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.80 percent of residents in 17814 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berwick Hospital Center with a distance of 13.51 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Benton, PA (ZIP Code 17814)

Benton, Pennsylvania, nestled in the rolling hills of Columbia County, offers a tranquil escape for those seeking a slower pace of life. However, the serenity of rural living can present unique challenges, particularly when it comes to healthcare access. This write-up explores the “Arthritis Score” for residents of ZIP code 17814, considering the specific transportation landscape and its impact on individuals managing arthritis and other mobility-limiting conditions. We will examine the practicalities of accessing medical care, factoring in drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Benton, PA, and seeking to understand the healthcare access environment.

The "Arthritis Score" is a subjective assessment, considering various factors that impact a person’s ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. This includes the ease of *transportation* to appointments, the availability of specialized services, and the overall accessibility of healthcare facilities. A higher score indicates greater ease of access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

**The Road to Recovery: Navigating Benton by Car**

For residents of Benton, the automobile remains the primary mode of *transportation*. The town itself is small, and most essential services, including a local pharmacy, are readily accessible. However, specialized medical care, such as rheumatology appointments or physical therapy, often necessitates travel outside of Benton.

The most direct route to larger medical centers involves utilizing Pennsylvania Route 487 (PA-487), which serves as a vital artery connecting Benton to surrounding towns and cities. Heading south on PA-487, the drive to Bloomsburg, the county seat, is typically a manageable 20-30 minute journey. Bloomsburg Hospital, part of Geisinger Health System, offers a range of medical services, including primary care and some specialty consultations. This drive, while relatively short, can be impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months.

Further afield, Danville, Pennsylvania, home to Geisinger Medical Center, a major regional hospital, is approximately a 45-60 minute drive via PA-487 south to Interstate 80 (I-80) east. This route, while longer, provides access to a comprehensive array of specialists and advanced medical technologies. The drive, however, can be stressful, particularly for those with chronic pain or mobility limitations. Traffic on I-80 can be unpredictable, adding to the overall travel time.

For those seeking care in the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton area, the journey involves traveling east on I-80. This trip can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. This longer travel time significantly impacts the "Arthritis Score" for residents who require frequent appointments or face mobility challenges.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public *transportation* options in Benton and the surrounding area are limited. Columbia County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides some bus service, but the routes and schedules are infrequent, and the service area is restricted. This makes relying on public transit for medical appointments a significant challenge, especially for individuals with arthritis who may require frequent visits or have difficulty navigating the physical demands of bus travel.

The CCTA does offer ADA-compliant buses, equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the limited service frequency and the need to coordinate schedules can make this option impractical for many residents. Information on routes, schedules, and ADA features can be found on the CCTA website or by contacting their customer service line.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bloomsburg and Danville areas, but their presence in Benton is sporadic. Availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes ride-sharing a less reliable option for those who require scheduled medical appointments.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, providing door-to-door *transportation* for medical appointments. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers who can assist with mobility needs. Some prominent medical *transportation* brands serving the area include:

* **Geisinger Life Flight:** While primarily an air medical service, Geisinger also offers ground *transportation* options for patients requiring transport between facilities.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** Many local ambulance services also provide non-emergency medical *transportation*.

While these services provide a valuable lifeline, they often come at a higher cost than traditional *transportation* options. The availability of these services and their associated costs are crucial factors to consider when evaluating the "Arthritis Score" for Benton residents.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Arthritis Score" for ZIP code 17814 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the immediate community offers basic services, accessing specialized medical care requires navigating a rural *transportation* landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges for individuals managing arthritis.

Those considering moving to Benton must carefully assess their healthcare needs and *transportation* capabilities. The ability to drive, or access reliable *transportation*, is paramount. Planning for appointments, considering travel times, and exploring medical *transportation* options are essential steps in ensuring adequate *healthcare access*.

The proximity to Bloomsburg and Danville provides access to a range of medical services, but the drive times and potential for travel-related stress must be considered. The limited public transit options and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services highlight the need for proactive planning.

The "Arthritis Score" for Benton, PA, is therefore moderate. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the challenges of *transportation* to healthcare facilities require careful consideration. Residents must proactively plan for their medical needs, utilizing available resources and exploring all *transportation* options to ensure timely and appropriate *healthcare access*. The availability of medical *transportation* services provides a crucial safety net, but the associated costs and the need for advance planning must be factored into the overall assessment.