17066, Mount Union, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17066, Mount Union, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.12 percent of residents in 17066 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Huntingdon with a distance of 10.64 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mount Union, PA (ZIP Code 17066)

Mount Union, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Huntingdon County, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, particularly when considering the critical element of healthcare access. This analysis delves into the transportation infrastructure available within and surrounding ZIP code 17066, evaluating its impact on residents' ability to reach medical facilities and ultimately, influencing their overall health score. The score will be a subjective assessment based on the availability, efficiency, and accessibility of transportation options. Factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options will be considered.

The foundation of healthcare access in Mount Union rests heavily on the ability to traverse the local roadways. The primary arteries facilitating transportation are Pennsylvania Route 75 (PA-75) and Pennsylvania Route 522 (PA-522). PA-75, running north-south, provides a direct link to larger towns and cities. PA-522, oriented east-west, offers access to other regional centers. The condition of these roads, while generally well-maintained, can be subject to seasonal variations, particularly during winter months, potentially impacting drive times and accessibility.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial determinant of healthcare access. The closest hospital, UPMC-Juniata, located in nearby Lewistown, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive via PA-75. This drive time, while manageable, can be significantly affected by traffic, weather conditions, and the time of day. Other healthcare options, such as specialists or more comprehensive facilities, may necessitate longer travel times, potentially exceeding an hour, especially when considering travel to Harrisburg or State College.

Public transportation options in Mount Union are limited. The primary provider, Huntingdon County Transit, offers a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. This service is essential for individuals without personal vehicles, but the reliance on pre-arranged scheduling can present challenges for urgent medical needs. The availability of this service is subject to operational hours and geographical limitations. Further, the frequency of service and the potential for delays can affect healthcare access.

The Huntingdon County Transit system is equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities, offering ADA-compliant vehicles. This is a critical component of ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all residents. However, the demand-response nature of the service can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations, requiring careful planning and advanced booking.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Huntingdon County area, but their presence in Mount Union is not consistently guaranteed. The availability of these services can vary depending on driver availability and demand, potentially creating delays or unavailability during peak hours or in less populated areas. This variable availability introduces an element of uncertainty when relying on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs, offer another avenue for healthcare access. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other local providers may offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, providing transportation to and from medical appointments. The availability and cost of these services should be considered.

The availability of these services can be a lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive. However, the cost of medical transportation can be a barrier for some residents, potentially affecting their ability to access necessary healthcare.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Mount Union, PA (ZIP code 17066) is moderately impacted by transportation. While residents have access to a primary hospital within a reasonable drive time, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options introduce challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services is variable, and the cost of medical transportation can be a barrier.

The health score is also influenced by the demographic profile of Mount Union. The aging population and the presence of individuals with disabilities further underscore the importance of reliable and accessible transportation options. These individuals may be more reliant on public transit or medical transportation services, making the availability and efficiency of these services critical to their healthcare access.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access is not solely limited to the physical act of getting to a medical facility. It also influences the ability to maintain regular appointments, access preventative care, and manage chronic conditions. The time and effort required to travel to healthcare appointments can lead to appointment cancellations or delays, potentially impacting overall health outcomes.

For individuals considering moving to Mount Union, the transportation landscape should be a key consideration. The availability of reliable transportation options is a significant factor in ensuring access to healthcare services. Potential residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and evaluate the available options to determine if they align with their healthcare requirements.

The economic factors also play a role. The cost of transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and the cost of medical transportation services, can impact the financial burden of healthcare. The affordability of transportation options is a critical factor in ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all residents.

In conclusion, while Mount Union offers a degree of healthcare access, the transportation infrastructure presents some limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services introduce potential challenges for residents. While medical transportation services provide an alternative, their cost can be a barrier for some. Therefore, the overall health score for healthcare access in Mount Union is moderate, emphasizing the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation options and ensure equitable access to healthcare for all residents.