17061, Millersburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17061, Millersburg, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.61 percent of residents in 17061 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 18.02 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Millersburg, PA (ZIP Code 17061)

Millersburg, Pennsylvania, nestled along the Susquehanna River, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 17061, delves into the complexities of commuting to healthcare, offering an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options, drive times, and available services. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Millersburg, ensuring informed decisions regarding healthcare access and overall well-being.

The "Overall Health Score" considers the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities. This includes factors like distance, mode of transportation, and the availability of specialized medical services. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score signals potential challenges. The score incorporates a range of elements, from the convenience of personal vehicles to the limitations of public transit and the emergence of ride-sharing services.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

For many Millersburg residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation to healthcare. The town's location, while picturesque, necessitates travel to larger medical centers. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Pennsylvania Route 147 (North and South) and U.S. Route 322. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, impacting travel times.

The closest hospitals, such as UPMC Harrisburg and Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center, are located in Harrisburg, approximately 30 to 45 minutes away via Route 147 and U.S. Route 322. These drive times are crucial, especially in emergency situations. Specialized clinics and urgent care facilities are also accessible within this radius, offering a range of medical services.

Further afield, the drive to Hershey Medical Center, a major tertiary care facility, takes approximately an hour, depending on traffic. This longer travel time highlights the importance of planning for appointments and considering potential delays. The condition of the roads, weather conditions, and time of day all significantly influence these drive times, impacting the overall accessibility of healthcare.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Millersburg are limited. Capital Area Transit (CAT) provides bus service in the Harrisburg area, but its routes do not directly serve Millersburg. This lack of robust public transit presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, disabled, and low-income residents.

While CAT does offer some routes that extend towards the Millersburg area, they are infrequent and do not provide direct access to medical facilities. The lack of accessibility features, such as ramps and lifts, on some older buses further restricts access for individuals with mobility limitations. This deficiency in public transportation significantly lowers the "Overall Health Score" for those reliant on alternative transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Harrisburg area and can be utilized for transportation to healthcare appointments. However, their availability in Millersburg may be limited, and surge pricing during peak demand can increase costs. While ride-sharing offers a convenient alternative to driving, its reliability and affordability are factors to consider.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available in the area. These services are crucial for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be significant, and the availability of NEMT may be limited, particularly for routine appointments.

**Medical Transport Brands and Services:**

* **Ambulance Services:** Provided by local emergency medical services (EMS) and private ambulance companies.
* **Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT):** Companies like First Transit and LogistiCare provide NEMT services, often contracted through insurance providers.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Uber and Lyft are available, but may have limited presence and higher costs.

**ADA Features and Accessibility:**

It is imperative to assess the accessibility of healthcare facilities for individuals with disabilities. While most hospitals and clinics comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring accessible entrances, examination rooms, and restrooms, the transportation component remains a challenge. The lack of ADA-compliant public transit options and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services create barriers for individuals with mobility impairments.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Millersburg: A Balanced Perspective**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Millersburg, PA, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Harrisburg and Hershey provides access to a range of medical services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation pose challenges. Residents and those considering moving to Millersburg should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and consider the potential impact on their healthcare access.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some solutions, but their cost and reliability must be factored in. The lack of robust public transit, particularly for those with disabilities, remains a significant area for improvement.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* Advocate for increased public transportation options, including routes that directly serve Millersburg and connect to medical facilities in Harrisburg.
* Explore partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for low-income residents and those with disabilities.
* Promote the availability and affordability of medical transportation services, ensuring access for those who require assistance.
* Encourage healthcare providers to offer telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for routine follow-ups.
* Educate residents about available transportation options and resources, including ride-sharing, medical transport, and financial assistance programs.

**Conclusion: The "Overall Health Score"**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Millersburg, PA (ZIP code 17061) is moderate. While residents have access to a range of medical services within a reasonable driving distance, the limitations of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges. By addressing these challenges and implementing the recommendations, Millersburg can improve healthcare access and enhance the overall well-being of its residents. The town's appeal as a place to live and the quality of life it offers are inextricably linked to the ease with which residents can access the healthcare they need.