17084, Reedsville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17084, Reedsville, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.51 percent of residents in 17084 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 4.70 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Reedsville, PA (ZIP Code 17084)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report, focused on Reedsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17084), analyzes the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options, drive times, and accessibility. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Reedsville or seeking to improve healthcare access within the community.

Reedsville, a charming community nestled in Mifflin County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its rural setting, while offering tranquility, necessitates careful consideration of transportation options. The Overall Health Score reflects the interplay of available transportation methods, drive times to medical facilities, and the presence of services catering to individuals with disabilities.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation in Reedsville is the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this system is largely determined by the road network and the distances to healthcare providers. Residents often rely on the well-maintained but sometimes congested US Route 322. This major artery, crucial for both local and regional travel, can experience delays, particularly during peak hours or due to seasonal traffic.

Drive times to the nearest hospitals, such as Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, average around 15-20 minutes under ideal conditions. This is a reasonable timeframe, offering relatively quick access to emergency care and a range of medical specialties. However, the absence of alternative routes can make this commute vulnerable to unforeseen circumstances.

Other healthcare facilities, including doctor's offices, urgent care clinics, and specialized medical centers, are dispersed throughout the region. Drive times to these facilities vary depending on their location, potentially extending the commute to 30 minutes or more. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of vehicle maintenance and the financial burden of car ownership for healthcare access.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation in Reedsville is limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides bus services within the county. However, these services are primarily designed for local trips and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities.

MCTA routes are subject to fixed schedules and limited operating hours. This can restrict access to healthcare appointments, especially for those requiring early morning or late evening services. Furthermore, the availability of routes that directly connect Reedsville with hospitals and specialized clinics is a critical factor influencing the Overall Health Score.

The MCTA strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transit system. However, the effectiveness of this accessibility depends on the frequency of service, the proximity of bus stops to healthcare facilities, and the overall efficiency of the system. Improvements in route planning and frequency would significantly enhance healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Reedsville. Demand, driver availability, and surge pricing can all impact the reliability and affordability of ride-sharing for healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. These services, often provided by specialized companies, offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While medical transport can be a valuable resource, it often comes with a higher cost, potentially posing a financial barrier for some residents.

The presence and accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport services contribute significantly to the Overall Health Score. A robust system, with consistent availability and reasonable pricing, can greatly improve healthcare access for those unable to drive or use public transit.

**Accessibility and the Overall Health Score:**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Reedsville is influenced by several factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and efficiency of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and the accessibility of these services for individuals with disabilities all play a crucial role.

The score also considers the affordability of transportation options, the frequency of services, and the overall convenience of accessing healthcare. A high score indicates easy and reliable access to healthcare, while a low score suggests significant barriers to care.

For Reedsville, the Overall Health Score is moderately positive. The relatively short drive times to major hospitals are a significant advantage. However, the limited public transit options and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The success of moving to Reedsville and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is tied to the availability of transportation.

**Recommendations and Future Considerations:**

To improve the Overall Health Score for Reedsville, several initiatives could be implemented. Expanding public transit routes to directly serve healthcare facilities, increasing the frequency of service, and ensuring the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles would significantly enhance healthcare access.

Partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be explored. Promoting awareness of medical transport services and offering financial assistance to those in need would further improve access.

Investing in infrastructure, such as improved road maintenance and the development of dedicated bus lanes, could reduce drive times and enhance the efficiency of transportation. Encouraging the development of healthcare facilities within Reedsville itself would also reduce the need for long-distance travel.

Ultimately, improving healthcare access in Reedsville requires a multifaceted approach. By addressing the challenges of transportation, promoting the availability of diverse services, and ensuring affordability and accessibility, the community can enhance its Overall Health Score and create a healthier environment for all residents. This is a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Reedsville, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and effective medical care.