17052, Mapleton Depot, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17052, Mapleton Depot, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.26 percent of residents in 17052 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 25.37 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Mapleton Depot (ZIP Code 17052)

The health and well-being of a community are intricately linked to its access to essential services, particularly healthcare. In Mapleton Depot, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17052), a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape is crucial to assessing the overall health score. This write-up delves into the various modes of transportation available for accessing healthcare facilities, considering factors like drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, all while painting a vivid picture for individuals considering moving to Mapleton Depot.

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Mapleton Depot is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare providers vary significantly depending on the specific facility and its location relative to the residential area. The major thoroughfares influencing these commutes include Route 322, a vital east-west artery, and Route 75, a north-south connector. Travel times during peak hours can be considerably longer, especially on Route 322, which experiences heavy traffic flow.

For residents seeking primary care physicians or specialists in Lewistown, the county seat, a drive of approximately 15-25 minutes is typical, utilizing Route 322. Accessing larger healthcare facilities, such as Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, also necessitates navigating Route 322, with drive times averaging 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. For those seeking specialized care in Harrisburg, the state capital, the commute becomes more substantial, requiring a drive of roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, predominantly via Route 322 and Interstate 81.

Public transportation options in Mapleton Depot are limited but present. The Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides bus services within Mifflin County, offering a lifeline for residents who do not have access to a personal vehicle. While the MCTA doesn’t have direct routes to Harrisburg, it offers connections to Lewistown, where healthcare facilities are more readily accessible. Route 1, for instance, might be a useful option for some residents. However, the frequency of these services and the potential for multiple transfers can significantly increase travel times, making them less ideal for urgent medical needs.

It's important to note the accessibility of these public transit routes. The MCTA strives to adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, ensuring that its buses are equipped with features like wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, the availability of these services in Mapleton Depot may vary depending on the specific route and time of day.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative transportation option. Their availability, however, can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing services can also be a factor, potentially making them less affordable for regular healthcare appointments. Residents of Mapleton Depot should consider the reliability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing when assessing their healthcare access.

For individuals with specific medical needs, medical transport services provide specialized transportation options. These services cater to patients requiring non-emergency medical transportation, such as those needing assistance to and from appointments or those with mobility limitations. These services can be invaluable for individuals who cannot drive or are unable to utilize public transportation.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and various local ambulance services that provide non-emergency transportation. These services typically require advance booking and may involve specific eligibility criteria. The availability and cost of these services should be considered when evaluating the overall health score for Mapleton Depot.

The overall health score for Mapleton Depot, concerning healthcare access, is influenced by several factors. The availability of personal vehicles, the drive times to healthcare facilities, and the reliability of public transportation all play a crucial role. The limited public transit options and the potential for lengthy commutes to larger medical centers, particularly those in Harrisburg, can present challenges for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options helps to mitigate some of these challenges, but their cost and availability should be carefully considered.

For individuals considering moving to Mapleton Depot, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. Assessing the proximity of healthcare providers to potential residences, evaluating the feasibility of using public transportation, and researching the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services are all crucial steps. This information will allow individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall well-being.

The health of a community is a multifaceted concept. The overall health score for Mapleton Depot, as it relates to healthcare access, is a dynamic assessment. It is influenced by the infrastructure, the availability of services, and the individual circumstances of residents. While the area offers a variety of transportation options, the limitations of public transit and the distance to some healthcare facilities should be carefully considered.

In conclusion, while Mapleton Depot provides access to healthcare, the transportation challenges, especially for those without personal vehicles or facing mobility limitations, could impact the overall health score. Careful planning and consideration of the available transportation options are essential for residents seeking to maintain their health and well-being. The need for improved public transit, especially to Harrisburg, would positively impact the health of the community.