17075, Newton Hamilton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17075, Newton Hamilton, Pennsylvania is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.97 percent of residents in 17075 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 21.13 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Newton Hamilton (ZIP Code 17075)

The pursuit of optimal health is a journey, and in Newton Hamilton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17075), that journey begins with understanding the accessibility of healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on the crucial element of transportation and its impact on accessing medical services. We delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering **moving to Newton Hamilton**.

The **transportation** landscape in this rural community significantly influences the ease with which residents can reach doctors, hospitals, and other vital healthcare providers. The "Overall Health Score" reflects this reality, recognizing that limited access can translate into delayed care, poorer health outcomes, and increased stress. A high score indicates relatively easy access, while a lower score suggests significant challenges.

**Drive Time Dynamics**

Newton Hamilton, nestled in the heart of Mifflin County, is primarily served by two major roadways: US Route 22 and Pennsylvania Route 75. The reliance on personal vehicles is paramount, making drive times a critical factor in healthcare accessibility.

For routine appointments and primary care, residents often travel to Lewistown, the county seat. The drive to Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital, a primary healthcare provider, typically takes between 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Newton Hamilton. This drive is generally straightforward, utilizing Route 75 North and then merging onto US Route 22 West.

Specialist appointments and more advanced medical care often necessitate travel to larger regional centers like Harrisburg or State College. The drive to Harrisburg, approximately 70 miles away, can take between 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, primarily via US Route 322 East, connecting to US Route 15 South or Interstate 81 South. State College, home to Mount Nittany Medical Center, is about a 1-hour and 15-minute drive, using US Route 322 West.

These longer distances and drive times underscore the challenges of **healthcare access** for residents. The "Overall Health Score" considers these factors, recognizing that longer commutes can impact appointment adherence, increase fatigue, and potentially deter individuals from seeking necessary care.

**Public Transit Realities**

Public transportation options in Newton Hamilton are limited, significantly impacting the "Overall Health Score." Mifflin County does offer a public transit system, but its routes and frequency are not ideally suited for regular healthcare appointments.

The Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA) operates a demand-response system, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This system is crucial for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. However, the limited service hours, the need for advance booking, and potential wait times can pose significant hurdles for accessing timely medical care.

The MCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, providing essential services for individuals with disabilities. However, the overall availability and frequency of public transit remain a significant constraint on the "Overall Health Score" in Newton Hamilton.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

The availability of ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, in Newton Hamilton is limited. This lack of readily available ride-sharing options further complicates healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or access to public transit.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, play a vital role in bridging the gap. Several companies operate in the region, including those specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients.

While medical transport services offer a valuable solution, their cost can be a barrier for some residents. The "Overall Health Score" acknowledges the importance of these services but also recognizes the potential financial constraints they impose.

**Healthcare Access and the "Overall Health Score"**

The "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in Newton Hamilton, ZIP code 17075, is influenced by the interplay of these factors. The score is impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

For individuals **moving to Newton Hamilton**, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a guide, highlighting the need for careful consideration of healthcare access when making relocation decisions.

The score reflects the rural nature of the community, where healthcare access is often more complex than in urban areas. While the drive to Lewistown offers relatively convenient access to primary care, the longer distances to specialist appointments and regional hospitals present significant challenges.

The limited public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate the picture. While medical transport services offer a viable solution, their cost can be a barrier.

**Conclusion**

The "Overall Health Score" for Newton Hamilton, ZIP code 17075, reflects a mixed picture regarding **healthcare access**. While the community offers a sense of rural charm and a slower pace of life, the **transportation** infrastructure presents challenges.

Residents must rely heavily on personal vehicles, and the limited public transit options and variable ride-sharing availability can create obstacles. Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline, but their cost can be a barrier.

For those considering **moving to Newton Hamilton**, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare accessibility is a complex issue, and proactive planning is crucial for ensuring optimal health outcomes. Future initiatives aimed at improving public transit, increasing ride-sharing availability, or subsidizing medical transport services could significantly enhance the "Overall Health Score" and improve the quality of life for all residents.