17049, Mc Alisterville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17049, Mc Alisterville, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.70 percent of residents in 17049 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 16.65 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17049 (McAlisterville, PA)

The overall health score for residents of McAlisterville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17049) is significantly impacted by the challenges inherent in accessing healthcare. This rural community, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, faces a confluence of factors that influence the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities. These factors include distance, available transportation options, and the presence of specialized medical services. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape as it relates to healthcare access, offering insights for both current residents and those considering moving to McAlisterville.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents is the personal vehicle. The geographical layout of the area necessitates reliance on cars for navigating to medical appointments. The major thoroughfares influencing healthcare access include Route 322, a vital east-west artery, and Route 75, which runs north-south. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying access to critical medical care. Smaller, local roads like Main Street and numerous rural byways provide additional routes, but their winding nature and potential for seasonal weather-related hazards can further complicate travel.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial determinant of the overall health score. The nearest hospital, Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, is approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within McAlisterville. Other medical facilities, such as primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers, are also primarily located in Lewistown. Access to these facilities is therefore heavily reliant on personal vehicle ownership and the ability to navigate the local road network.

Public transportation options are limited in McAlisterville and the surrounding areas. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The availability of public transit routes, their frequency, and their accessibility features (such as ADA compliance) are crucial factors in evaluating the overall health score. Further research is needed to ascertain if any local or regional bus services operate within the area and their routes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some areas, but their presence in McAlisterville is less certain. The availability of these services, along with their pricing and reliability, can significantly impact healthcare access. The limited population density and rural location may make it challenging for ride-sharing companies to maintain a consistent presence, potentially leaving residents without readily available transportation options.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. Companies like Med-Trans or Air Methods provide non-emergency medical transportation, including ambulance services and specialized transport vehicles. These services are essential for patients who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. The availability of these services and their associated costs are critical factors in assessing the overall health score. The response time of emergency medical services (EMS) is also a key factor.

The absence of specialized medical services within McAlisterville itself necessitates travel to other communities for advanced care. Residents may need to travel to larger cities like Harrisburg or State College for specialized treatments, adding to the time and cost of healthcare access. The availability of these specialized services and the associated travel times are important considerations.

The overall health score for McAlisterville (ZIP Code 17049) is therefore influenced by a complex interplay of factors related to transportation and healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services, and the need for travel to access specialized medical care all contribute to the challenges faced by residents.

For those considering moving to McAlisterville, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. The ability to drive and maintain a vehicle is almost a necessity. Residents should also be aware of the potential for longer travel times to medical appointments and the need to plan accordingly.

The availability of healthcare professionals and facilities in McAlisterville is also a factor. The presence of primary care physicians, dentists, and other healthcare providers within the community can significantly improve healthcare access. The number of healthcare professionals, their specialties, and their hours of operation are all important considerations.

The economic factors related to healthcare access, such as insurance coverage and the cost of medical care, also play a crucial role. The affordability of healthcare services and the availability of insurance options can significantly impact the overall health score.

In conclusion, the overall health score for McAlisterville, PA (ZIP Code 17049) is influenced by the challenges of transportation and healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and the need for travel to specialized medical care all contribute to the challenges faced by residents. Understanding these factors is crucial for both current residents and those considering moving to McAlisterville. A comprehensive assessment of these factors is vital for improving the health and well-being of the community. Addressing these challenges through improved transportation options, increased healthcare access, and affordable healthcare services is essential for enhancing the overall health score of McAlisterville.