17004, Belleville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17004, Belleville, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.00 percent of residents in 17004 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 8.82 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17004 (Belleville, PA)

The overall health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape of Belleville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17004), assessing the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. This "Overall Health Score" considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Belleville or seeking to understand its healthcare accessibility.

Belleville, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania's scenic landscape, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting often translates to longer distances to specialized medical care. This distance factor is a crucial element when considering the health score. The ability to quickly reach a doctor, specialist, or hospital directly impacts the timely diagnosis and treatment of health conditions. The overall score reflects this reality.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Access**

For many Belleville residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this method depends on several factors, including traffic, road conditions, and the location of healthcare providers.

The most direct route to larger hospitals in the region often involves navigating the major arteries. The primary route to Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, a significant regional healthcare provider, typically involves traveling along **US-322 East** and then connecting to **PA-655 South**. The drive, without significant traffic, can range from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on the exact location within the 17004 ZIP code.

Alternatively, if you are headed to UPMC in the region, the drive might involve a slightly longer journey. This could entail traveling along **PA-655 South** or **PA-655 North** and then connecting to other roadways. The drive time will depend on the specific UPMC facility and the chosen route.

Smaller clinics and doctor's offices are often located within Belleville or in neighboring towns. These facilities are accessible via local roads like **Main Street**, **Green Avenue**, and **Front Mountain Road**. Drive times to these locations are typically shorter, often under 10 minutes, providing convenient access for routine appointments and immediate medical needs.

Traffic, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Residents should factor in potential delays when planning appointments. Weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can also affect travel, making it essential to allow extra time for travel.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Belleville are limited, reflecting the rural nature of the area. This presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

The primary public transit provider in the area is the **Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA)**. MCTA offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is essential for many residents, but its limitations must be considered.

The MCTA vehicles are equipped with ADA-compliant features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the routes and schedules are not fixed, and the service's availability can be restricted. This limitation can impact the ability to reach healthcare appointments promptly, particularly for those requiring specialized care or emergency services.

The absence of a robust public transit system is a significant factor in the overall health score. The reliance on demand-response services necessitates careful planning and can create barriers to healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

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

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the Belleville area, though their availability may be limited compared to more urban areas. The cost and availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and demand. They offer an alternative to personal vehicles, but the reliability and cost need to be carefully considered.

Medical transport services play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or use public transit. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation to and from medical appointments.

The availability of NEMT services is a positive aspect of the healthcare access landscape in Belleville. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some individuals, and advance booking is often required.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **CareRide:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation.
* **AmbuCare:** Provides ambulance and medical transport services.
* **MedStar:** Offers medical transportation services.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 17004 reflects a mixed picture. While drive times to local clinics are generally manageable, access to larger hospitals and specialized care can require longer journeys. The limited public transit options and the reliance on demand-response services create challenges for those without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services offer an alternative, but their availability and cost may be a concern. Medical transport services provide a crucial safety net for those unable to drive, but cost and advance booking requirements are significant considerations.

For those considering moving to Belleville, understanding these transportation dynamics is essential. Careful planning and consideration of healthcare access are crucial. While Belleville offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the challenges related to transportation and healthcare access must be carefully assessed to ensure the best possible health outcomes. The overall score reflects the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access, including exploring strategies to enhance public transit, promote ride-sharing, and ensure the affordability and availability of medical transport services. The ability to reach healthcare facilities efficiently and affordably directly impacts the health and well-being of the community.