17080, Pillow, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17080, Pillow, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.59 percent of residents in 17080 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute with a distance of 25.06 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Pillow, PA (ZIP Code 17080)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Pillow, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17080), requires a deep dive into their ability to access healthcare. A critical component of this assessment is the ease and efficiency of transportation. Transportation directly impacts healthcare access, influencing appointment adherence, the ability to seek preventative care, and overall well-being. This write-up will explore the current transportation landscape, including drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers, to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility for the residents of Pillow.

Pillow, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. Its rural location, coupled with limited public transportation options, significantly impacts the ability of residents to reach medical facilities. This analysis will consider the geographical constraints and the available resources to determine the overall health score related to healthcare transportation.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

For many Pillow residents, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare is by car. The drive times to various medical facilities are a significant factor in determining healthcare access. The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in neighboring towns and cities, requiring travel on a network of highways and local roads.

The most direct route to Harrisburg, the state capital, typically involves traveling on **Route 147** south to **Route 322** east. This journey, which can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic, provides access to a wide array of healthcare providers, including UPMC Harrisburg Hospital and Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. These facilities offer specialized care, including cardiology, oncology, and advanced surgical procedures.

Alternatively, residents may travel north on **Route 147** to reach Sunbury and Shamokin, where they can access Geisinger Medical Center and other local clinics. The drive to these locations usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes.

The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact drive times and the safety of travel. Winter weather, with its snow and ice, can create hazardous conditions, making it difficult and potentially dangerous to reach medical appointments. This necessitates careful planning and consideration for the time of year and the potential for delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Pillow are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those who do not have access to a personal vehicle. The availability of public transit is a crucial factor in healthcare access, particularly for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The Susquehanna Area Regional Transportation Authority (SARTA) provides some service in the surrounding areas, but its routes and schedules are limited, with no direct routes to Pillow. Residents might need to travel to nearby towns to access SARTA services, adding to the overall travel time and complexity.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible transportation is essential to ensure that individuals with disabilities can access healthcare. The presence and reliability of such services are a critical factor in evaluating the overall health score.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Harrisburg area but may have limited presence in Pillow. The availability and cost of ride-sharing can vary, and the reliability of these services in a rural area can be unpredictable.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including Med-Trans and First Transit. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients.

The cost of medical transport services can be a barrier to access for some individuals. The availability of financial assistance programs or insurance coverage for these services is crucial in ensuring that all residents can access the care they need.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The overall health score for residents of Pillow, PA, concerning healthcare access is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The availability of transportation options, the drive times to medical facilities, the cost of transportation, and the presence of specialized services all contribute to the overall picture.

For those considering moving to Pillow, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. The need for a reliable personal vehicle is evident, and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services should be carefully considered. The ability to plan for potential delays due to weather or traffic is also essential.

The overall health score is not just about the availability of medical facilities; it also encompasses the ease with which residents can reach them. The challenges presented by the rural location of Pillow, the limited public transit options, and the potential for long drive times underscore the need for careful consideration and planning.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Healthcare Access**

The overall health score for residents of Pillow, PA, reflects the need for improved healthcare access. While the availability of medical facilities in the surrounding areas is commendable, the transportation challenges present significant barriers.

To improve the overall health score, several initiatives could be considered. These include exploring the expansion of public transit services, particularly those with ADA accessibility, and partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation options.

Furthermore, promoting the use of telemedicine and telehealth services can help bridge the gap in healthcare access by allowing residents to consult with healthcare providers remotely.

Ultimately, improving healthcare access in Pillow requires a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, and community organizations. By addressing the transportation challenges and promoting innovative solutions, the overall health score for residents of Pillow can be significantly improved, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to receive the care they need.