17002, Allensville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17002, Allensville, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.46 percent of residents in 17002 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 14.43 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Allensville (ZIP Code 17002)

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount when considering a move to a new community. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Allensville (ZIP Code 17002), focusing on the ease of commuting to various healthcare providers. This score considers the availability of transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, to assess the overall accessibility of healthcare services. We will delve into drive times, public transit routes, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport options to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access.

Allensville, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The rural nature of the area influences the availability and efficiency of transportation options. The absence of a large urban center necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most healthcare appointments. However, we will examine the available alternatives to assess the overall health score.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Allensville is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this mode is directly tied to the road network and the distance to healthcare facilities. Residents of Allensville often rely on a network of state roads and highways to reach their healthcare providers.

The primary arteries for travel are **Route 322** and **Route 655**. These roads offer relatively quick access to larger towns and cities where hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located. The drive to the nearest major hospital, **Geisinger Lewistown Hospital**, which is approximately 20 miles away, typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Further afield, residents might need to travel to **Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center** in Hershey, Pennsylvania. This journey, covering approximately 60 miles, can take upwards of an hour and a half, especially during peak travel times. The route primarily involves taking **Route 322 East** and then connecting to **Interstate 81 South** or **Route 322 East** and connecting to **Route 283 East**.

The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact drive times and accessibility. Snow and ice can make travel treacherous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to healthcare services. Therefore, residents must be prepared for potential delays and consider alternative arrangements during inclement weather.

**Public Transit: Limited but Present**

Public transportation options in Allensville are limited, reflecting the rural character of the community. The **Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA)** provides public transportation services within Mifflin County. However, the routes and schedules are designed to serve the needs of the county as a whole, and the frequency of service in Allensville may be limited.

The MCTA offers fixed-route bus services, but the routes that serve Allensville are infrequent, and the schedules may not align with the needs of healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for individuals with disabilities. The MCTA is committed to providing accessible transportation, but the availability of these vehicles on specific routes should be confirmed.

For those who rely on public transit, careful planning is essential. Residents should consult the MCTA website or contact the authority directly to obtain the most up-to-date route information, schedules, and accessibility details. The limited availability of public transit significantly impacts the overall health score, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

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

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are available in the broader Mifflin County area, but their availability in Allensville specifically can be inconsistent. The presence of these services depends on the availability of drivers, which can fluctuate based on demand and the time of day. Residents should check the availability of these services in advance of their healthcare appointments and be prepared for potential delays or cancellations.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from healthcare appointments. Several medical transport providers serve the Mifflin County area, including **Care Ride** and **First Transit**. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles.

Medical transport services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations, those who cannot drive, or those who require assistance with medical equipment. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance traveled and the level of assistance required. Residents should research and compare the services and pricing of different medical transport providers to find the best fit for their needs.

**Overall Health Score: A Holistic Perspective**

The Overall Health Score for Allensville (ZIP Code 17002) reflects the interplay of these factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create a mixed picture. The drive times to nearby hospitals are reasonable, but the distance to specialized medical facilities can be significant. The limited public transit options disproportionately impact those who cannot drive.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers helps to mitigate some of the challenges, but their availability and cost must be considered. The Overall Health Score is also influenced by the individual's circumstances, including their mobility, access to a personal vehicle, and financial resources.

**Moving to Allensville: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Allensville, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. The availability of transportation is a critical factor in ensuring timely and convenient access to healthcare services. Prospective residents should consider the following:

* **Personal Vehicle:** The ability to drive or have access to a personal vehicle is crucial for accessing healthcare.
* **Distance to Healthcare Providers:** The distance to hospitals, clinics, and specialists should be carefully evaluated.
* **Public Transit Options:** The availability and frequency of public transit routes should be assessed, particularly for those who cannot drive.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services should be considered.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Residents should have a plan for accessing healthcare during inclement weather or emergencies.

By carefully considering these factors, prospective residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and ensure that their needs are met. The Overall Health Score for Allensville is a reflection of the community's strengths and weaknesses in providing accessible healthcare, and it is a crucial factor for those considering making Allensville their home. The overall score for Allensville is a "fair" rating, with room for improvement in public transportation and ride-sharing availability.