17249, Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17249, Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.85 percent of residents in 17249 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Huntingdon with a distance of 18.40 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Rockhill Furnace (ZIP Code 17249)

Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of rural Huntingdon County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering overall health and access to healthcare. This write-up assesses the landscape of healthcare accessibility within and surrounding ZIP code 17249, focusing on transportation options and their impact on residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. The assessment will consider drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, ultimately providing an “Overall Health Score” for this geographically isolated community. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Rockhill Furnace and prioritizing healthcare access.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Rockhill Furnace is the private vehicle. The surrounding roads, including **Route 75** and **Route 522**, are the primary arteries connecting residents to healthcare facilities. Drive times are significantly impacted by the rural nature of the area. A simple doctor’s appointment can quickly transform into a significant time commitment, especially when factoring in potential traffic, inclement weather, and the distance to larger medical centers.

For routine check-ups and basic medical needs, residents often travel to local clinics or family practices located in nearby towns like Orbisonia or McConnellsburg. These facilities are typically accessible within a 15- to 30-minute drive along **Route 75**. However, specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, often necessitates travel to larger hospitals and medical centers located further afield.

The closest major hospital, UPMC Altoona, is approximately a 1-hour and 15-minute drive via **Route 75** and **Interstate 99**. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions, mobility limitations, or those facing medical emergencies. Furthermore, the availability of emergency services in Rockhill Furnace is limited, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Rockhill Furnace are extremely limited, posing a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The Huntingdon County Human Services Transportation Program provides demand-response transportation services, but these services are often restricted to specific populations, such as seniors and individuals with disabilities, and require advance booking.

The availability of public transit is a critical factor in the overall health score. While the Huntingdon County program offers a lifeline for some, its limited scope and the lack of readily available, scheduled routes significantly restrict healthcare access for a large segment of the population. The absence of robust public transportation necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles or alternative, often less reliable, transportation methods.

The lack of public transit options directly impacts the "Overall Health Score." The absence of readily available public transportation exacerbates the challenges posed by long drive times, particularly for individuals who are unable to drive or do not have access to a vehicle. This transportation barrier can lead to delayed or missed appointments, ultimately impacting health outcomes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Huntingdon County area, but their presence in Rockhill Furnace is inconsistent and unreliable. The availability of these services is often dependent on driver availability, which can be limited in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments is therefore risky, as it offers no guarantee of transportation, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies.

Medical transport services, including ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), play a crucial role in bridging the transportation gap for individuals with medical needs. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, but the response time can be affected by the rural location and the distance to the nearest hospital.

NEMT services, provided by companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare, offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments. However, the availability and scope of these services can vary, and eligibility requirements often apply. These services, while valuable, are not a universal solution and may require pre-authorization and scheduling, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

The "Overall Health Score" for Rockhill Furnace is significantly influenced by the transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create a complex landscape for healthcare access. The long drive times to specialized medical facilities and the potential for transportation barriers during emergencies are significant concerns.

The "Overall Health Score" also considers the impact on mental well-being. The stress and anxiety associated with securing transportation to medical appointments, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or those facing difficult medical diagnoses, can negatively affect mental health. The lack of readily available transportation can lead to feelings of isolation and a sense of being disconnected from essential healthcare services.

Considering the various factors, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Rockhill Furnace (ZIP code 17249) is moderate. While basic healthcare services are available within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of robust public transportation, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the long drive times to specialized medical facilities create significant barriers for many residents.

The "Overall Health Score" can be improved by addressing the transportation challenges. Investing in expanded public transportation options, including fixed-route buses or demand-response services, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to incentivize service in rural areas could also improve transportation availability.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and expanding the availability of mobile medical units could help to bring healthcare services closer to residents. These initiatives would reduce the reliance on personal vehicles and mitigate the impact of long drive times.

For those considering moving to Rockhill Furnace, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and access to healthcare services is essential. Understanding the limitations of public transit, the potential for long drive times, and the availability of medical transport options is crucial for making an informed decision. The "Overall Health Score" should be considered as a key factor in the decision-making process.

In conclusion, while Rockhill Furnace offers a peaceful and rural lifestyle, the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access must be carefully considered. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the need for improved transportation options to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the medical care they need. Addressing these transportation barriers is critical for improving the health and well-being of the Rockhill Furnace community.