17058, Mifflin, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17058, Mifflin, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.12 percent of residents in 17058 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 9.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Mifflin, PA (ZIP Code 17058)

Mifflin, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of the Susquehanna Valley, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and evolving infrastructure. Assessing the overall health score for residents hinges significantly on their ability to access healthcare. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 17058, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. We’ll examine drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those considering moving to Mifflin or already calling it home.

The cornerstone of accessing healthcare in Mifflin is the automobile. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are **Route 322** and **Route 75**. These highways, while offering relatively direct routes, can be subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours and in inclement weather. Drive times to major healthcare providers in the surrounding areas, such as Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital, are typically around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Mifflin. This relatively short commute time is a significant advantage for residents.

However, the reliance on personal vehicles presents challenges. Individuals without cars, those with mobility limitations, or those who prefer not to drive face considerable obstacles. Public transportation options, while present, are limited. The **Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA)** provides bus services within the county, but routes and schedules may not always align with the specific needs of healthcare appointments. Coverage in the more rural areas of Mifflin can be sparse, and direct routes to major medical facilities are not always available.

The MCTA does strive to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the frequency of routes and the potential for lengthy travel times, including transfers, can still pose difficulties. For instance, a trip to a specialist appointment in Lewistown might require a bus ride, a transfer, and potentially a considerable waiting period.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Mifflin area, offering a potential alternative to public transit or driving. However, the availability of these services can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially adding to the financial burden of healthcare access, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients, also operate in the region. Companies like **AMR (American Medical Response)** and other private ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals requiring assistance getting to and from appointments. These services often cater to those with mobility challenges or those who cannot drive themselves. However, these specialized services can be costly and require advance booking, making them less convenient for urgent or spontaneous healthcare needs.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Mifflin, therefore, presents a mixed picture. While the relatively short drive times to major medical facilities are a positive factor, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles create barriers for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers alternative solutions, but these options are not always readily accessible or affordable.

The geographical layout of Mifflin, with its mix of rural and more populated areas, further complicates the transportation landscape. Residents living in the more remote sections of the ZIP code may face significantly longer travel times to healthcare providers, regardless of their chosen mode of transportation. This disparity highlights the importance of considering location within the ZIP code when assessing healthcare access.

Healthcare access is a critical component of overall well-being. For those contemplating moving to Mifflin, a thorough understanding of the transportation options is essential. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual needs and circumstances, considering factors such as their mobility, access to a vehicle, and financial resources.

Furthermore, the availability of healthcare providers within Mifflin itself plays a crucial role. The presence of local clinics, doctor's offices, and pharmacies can significantly reduce the need for long-distance travel. The proximity of these facilities to residential areas enhances healthcare access and improves the overall health score for the community.

The future of healthcare access in Mifflin will likely be shaped by several factors. Investments in public transportation infrastructure, including expanded routes and increased frequency, could significantly improve access for residents who do not drive. The growth of telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, could also play a role in reducing the need for physical travel.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP code 17058 is moderate. While the relatively short drive times to major medical facilities are a positive factor, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles create barriers for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers alternative solutions, but these options are not always readily accessible or affordable. A comprehensive assessment of healthcare access must consider the interplay of these factors and the specific needs of individual residents. The ongoing evolution of transportation infrastructure and healthcare delivery models will undoubtedly continue to shape the health score for Mifflin in the years to come.