17063, Milroy, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17063, Milroy, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.92 percent of residents in 17063 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 7.40 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Milroy, PA (ZIP Code 17063)

Assessing the overall health of a community requires a holistic view, extending beyond clinical metrics to encompass the very fabric of daily life. For residents of Milroy, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 17063, this includes a critical examination of **healthcare access**, specifically the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach necessary medical services. This analysis delves into the complexities of **transportation** options, considering drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing possibilities, ultimately providing an "Overall Health Score" reflective of the community's ability to support its residents' well-being.

Milroy, a charming borough in Mifflin County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The rural landscape, while offering scenic beauty and a close-knit community, also contributes to a dispersed population and potentially limited **healthcare access**. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on the overall health of Milroy residents.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

For many, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of **transportation**. The convenience and flexibility of driving are undeniable, but the distance to medical facilities and the quality of the road infrastructure significantly impact the overall health score. The primary arteries serving Milroy include Route 322, a major east-west thoroughfare, and Route 655, a north-south connector.

Driving to the nearest hospital, Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital, located in Lewistown, typically involves a drive of approximately 10-15 minutes via Route 322. This short commute is a definite advantage for Milroy residents, providing relatively quick access to emergency services and specialized care. However, this proximity doesn't negate the potential for delays due to traffic, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather.

Further afield, access to specialized medical centers in Harrisburg or State College necessitates longer journeys. A drive to Harrisburg, the state capital, can take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via Route 322 and US-322 East. This longer commute may be necessary for specialized treatments or consultations. Similarly, reaching State College, home to Penn State University and its associated medical facilities, involves a drive of approximately 1 hour via Route 322 West. These longer travel times can pose significant challenges for individuals with chronic conditions, mobility limitations, or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

The condition of the roads themselves also plays a crucial role. Route 322, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion, especially during rush hour. Route 655, and smaller roads, might have varying conditions depending on the season, potentially increasing travel times and posing safety concerns. The overall quality of the road infrastructure directly affects the ease and safety of **healthcare access**, impacting the overall health score.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit, while less prevalent in rural areas, offers an essential alternative for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. Mifflin County offers public transit options, though they are limited. The primary provider is the Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA).

MCTA operates fixed-route bus services, but these routes are limited in scope and frequency. The routes primarily serve Lewistown and surrounding areas. Service to Milroy may be available, but it is likely infrequent, with limited hours of operation. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access transportation services. It is essential to ascertain the specific routes serving Milroy, the frequency of service, and the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles.

The limitations of public transit in Milroy highlight a significant challenge to **healthcare access**. Infrequent service, combined with potential travel times, can make it difficult for residents to attend medical appointments, particularly for those requiring regular care. The lack of convenient public transit contributes to a lower overall health score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

The rise of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft has offered an alternative **transportation** option, particularly in areas where public transit is limited. However, the availability of these services in Milroy is uncertain. The presence of ride-sharing services depends on driver availability and demand, which can be lower in rural areas. Even if available, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, provide a crucial link to **healthcare access**. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking, and can accommodate medical equipment. Several medical transport providers may serve the Mifflin County area.

Identifying the specific medical transport providers serving Milroy, their service areas, and the cost of their services is essential. The availability of medical transport can significantly improve the overall health score for individuals with disabilities or those who cannot drive.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **AMR (American Medical Response):** A national provider, may offer services in the region.
* **Medicaid-Approved Transportation Providers:** Many local companies contract with Medicaid to provide transport.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** Often provide non-emergency transport as well.
* **Senior Centers and Community Organizations:** May offer limited transport options.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis of **transportation** options, the overall health score for **healthcare access** in Milroy, PA (17063) is moderate. The relatively short drive to Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital is a positive factor. However, the limitations of public transit, the potential scarcity of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles, particularly for those needing specialized care, pose challenges.

Several recommendations can improve the overall health score. First, expanding public transit options, including increased frequency and route coverage, would significantly benefit residents. This could involve partnering with neighboring counties or exploring demand-response transit services. Second, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services and providing financial assistance to low-income residents to cover the cost of transportation could enhance **healthcare access**. Third, ensuring the availability of medical transport services, particularly for individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions, is crucial. Finally, community outreach programs that educate residents about available **transportation** options and resources can empower individuals to navigate the **healthcare access** landscape effectively.

For those **moving to Milroy**, this analysis highlights the importance of considering **transportation** needs when evaluating the community. While the proximity to a local hospital is advantageous, understanding the limitations of public transit and exploring alternative **transportation** options is crucial for maintaining good health. By addressing the challenges and implementing the recommendations outlined above, Milroy can improve its overall health score and ensure that all residents have equitable access to necessary medical services.