17073, Newmanstown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17073, Newmanstown, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.25 percent of residents in 17073 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lebanon Va Medical Center with a distance of 7.50 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Newmanstown, PA (ZIP Code 17073)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access essential services, particularly healthcare. In Newmanstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17073), a rural community nestled in the heart of Lebanon County, the availability and accessibility of healthcare facilities directly impact the overall well-being of its residents. This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" by analyzing the various transportation options available for accessing medical care, considering factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. This information is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Newmanstown**, as it profoundly affects their ability to maintain their health.

The primary challenge for residents of Newmanstown is its relative isolation. While offering a tranquil lifestyle, this rural setting presents hurdles in terms of **transportation** to healthcare providers. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, making access contingent on car ownership and the ability to drive. The major roadways influencing healthcare access are Route 501, which runs directly through the town, and Route 897, connecting to larger thoroughfares. These routes, while providing direct links, can be subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, potentially delaying critical medical appointments.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of this score. The closest hospitals and urgent care centers are located in surrounding towns. For example, the WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital in Lebanon, a comprehensive medical facility, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Route 501 and Route 72. This drive time, while manageable, can become problematic in emergency situations or during inclement weather. Another option is the Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center in Reading, which is a 40-50 minute drive via Route 422. This longer drive requires more planning and consideration, especially for those with chronic conditions requiring frequent visits.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Newmanstown. The primary provider in Lebanon County is the Lebanon Transit Authority (LTA). However, the LTA's services are primarily concentrated in the city of Lebanon and do not offer direct routes to Newmanstown. While residents could potentially utilize the LTA to travel to Lebanon and then find alternative transportation, this adds considerable time and complexity to healthcare access. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor for individuals with disabilities. The LTA does offer ADA-compliant services, but the limited route coverage in Newmanstown significantly reduces their practical value for healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability and reliability in a rural area like Newmanstown can be inconsistent. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can also make these services expensive. While ride-sharing provides a potential solution for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive, it’s not a guaranteed or affordable option for regular healthcare appointments. The variability of these services underscores the need for alternative **transportation** strategies.

Specialized medical **transportation** services are also available, catering to individuals with specific needs. Companies like MedStar and AMR provide ambulance services for emergencies, ensuring rapid transport to the nearest hospital. Non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) services, such as those offered by local private companies, are available for scheduled appointments. These services are particularly crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for some residents.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Newmanstown is also affected by the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers within the community or in close proximity. The presence of local clinics and medical offices reduces the need for lengthy travel. However, the limited number of healthcare providers in the immediate vicinity necessitates travel to larger towns for specialized care, increasing the reliance on **transportation**. This factor significantly impacts the overall health score, as the ease of accessing routine and specialized care directly influences health outcomes.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Newmanstown, PA (ZIP Code 17073) is moderate. While the community benefits from the availability of personal vehicles and access to emergency medical services, the limitations in public **transportation**, the inconsistency of ride-sharing services, and the distance to some healthcare facilities create challenges. For those **moving to Newmanstown**, careful consideration should be given to **transportation** needs, including the potential cost and availability of various options.

The score reflects a need for proactive planning and potentially a reliance on family, friends, or community resources to facilitate **healthcare access**. Residents may need to factor in longer travel times for appointments, especially for specialized care. Exploring options like carpooling, arranging for assistance from family members, or utilizing NEMT services for regular appointments can improve the overall health score for individuals.

The score is also influenced by the potential for future improvements in **healthcare access**. Increased investment in public **transportation**, expansion of ride-sharing services, or the establishment of additional healthcare facilities in the area could significantly enhance the overall health score for Newmanstown residents. These improvements would directly contribute to better **healthcare access** and, consequently, improved health outcomes.

In conclusion, the overall health score for **healthcare access** in Newmanstown, PA (ZIP Code 17073) is a nuanced assessment. While the community offers some **transportation** options, the limitations create barriers for some residents. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Newmanstown** and planning for their healthcare needs. The community’s health is directly linked to its ability to overcome these challenges and improve access to vital medical services.