17006, Blain, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17006, Blain, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.00 percent of residents in 17006 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Carlisle with a distance of 18.25 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17006 (Blain, PA)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In the rural heart of Perry County, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 17006, encompassing the small community of Blain, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering the overall health score. This assessment delves into the nuances of transportation options available to residents, painting a picture of healthcare access that informs decisions about moving to Blain and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

The primary hurdle facing Blain residents is the geographical isolation. The closest comprehensive healthcare facilities are located in Carlisle, Harrisburg, or Lewistown, necessitating significant travel times. This dependence on transportation is the cornerstone of the health score calculation. The type of transportation available, its reliability, and the cost associated with it directly impact a resident's ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

Driving is the most common mode of transportation. Accessing healthcare from Blain typically involves navigating a network of rural roads and highways. The primary route to Carlisle, approximately 30 miles away, is via **Route 850** east to **Route 34** south, and then **Interstate 81** south. The journey, under ideal conditions, can take around 45 minutes to an hour. However, inclement weather, common in the region, can significantly extend drive times, potentially delaying crucial medical appointments or emergency responses.

Heading to Harrisburg, roughly 50 miles away, requires a longer trek. Residents would likely take **Route 850** east to **Route 322** east, a winding and often congested route, before connecting to **Interstate 81** south or **Route 581** into the city. This trip can easily consume an hour and fifteen minutes, making it less practical for routine checkups or urgent care needs.

Lewistown, to the north, is a slightly closer option, about 40 miles away. The most direct route would be **Route 850** west to **Route 75** north, then **Route 322** west. This drive is also subject to weather delays and can take approximately an hour, depending on traffic.

Public transportation options are limited. The availability of public transit is a critical factor in the health score, especially for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. Unfortunately, Blain and the surrounding areas lack a robust public transportation system. There is no direct bus service connecting Blain to Carlisle, Harrisburg, or Lewistown. This severely limits healthcare access for those who rely on public transit.

The lack of public transportation is a significant detriment to the overall health score. The absence of regular bus routes, or even demand-response services, leaves many residents stranded. This is especially problematic for the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The absence of these services creates a barrier to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed treatment and poorer health outcomes.

While dedicated public transit is non-existent, some limited options exist. The **Capital Area Transit (CAT)** system, serving the Harrisburg area, does not extend its routes to Blain. However, it might be possible to arrange a ride through a volunteer transportation network or a limited medical transportation service that may be available.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available in the region. However, their reliability and affordability in a rural area like Blain are questionable. The availability of drivers is often limited, and surge pricing during peak hours or emergencies can make these services prohibitively expensive. This makes ride-sharing a less dependable option for routine healthcare needs.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized approach. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability might be limited, particularly in a rural area.

Some national and regional NEMT providers, like **LogistiCare** and **Medical Transportation Management (MTM)**, may service the Blain area. However, it is crucial to confirm their coverage and pricing structure. Local ambulance services, such as those provided by **Perry County Emergency Medical Services**, are available for emergency situations, but they are not designed for routine appointments.

The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options significantly impacts the health score. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential cost and availability constraints of ride-sharing and medical transportation services create barriers to healthcare access. This is particularly concerning for individuals with chronic conditions, those requiring frequent medical appointments, and those with limited mobility.

The overall health score for Blain, PA (17006) is influenced by these transportation limitations. The score is negatively impacted by the lack of public transit, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the potential cost and reliability issues associated with alternative transportation options. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Blain, as it directly affects their ability to access and maintain good health.

When evaluating the health score, it's vital to consider the availability of local healthcare providers within Blain itself. While comprehensive medical facilities are absent, the presence of a local family doctor, a community clinic, or a visiting specialist can mitigate some of the transportation challenges. These local resources can provide primary care, routine checkups, and minor medical services, reducing the need for frequent trips to distant facilities.

Furthermore, community initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access can positively impact the health score. These initiatives might include establishing a volunteer driver program, advocating for expanded public transportation services, or partnering with medical transportation providers to offer discounted rates or subsidized transportation options.

The health score also considers the presence of telehealth services. Telemedicine offers a valuable alternative to in-person appointments, particularly for follow-up visits, consultations, and remote monitoring of chronic conditions. The availability of reliable internet access in Blain is essential for accessing telehealth services.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of Blain, PA (17006) is significantly influenced by transportation factors. The lack of public transit, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the potential cost and reliability issues associated with alternative transportation options create barriers to healthcare access. While the presence of local healthcare providers, community initiatives, and telehealth services can mitigate some of these challenges, the transportation limitations remain a significant factor. Anyone considering moving to Blain should carefully consider these transportation challenges and their potential impact on their health and well-being. The health score for Blain, PA, reflects the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and address the transportation needs of its residents.