17255, Shade Gap, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17255, Shade Gap, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.43 percent of residents in 17255 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Medical Center with a distance of 17.33 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17255 (Shade Gap, PA)

This analysis provides an overall health score for healthcare access within ZIP Code 17255, focusing on transportation options. Shade Gap, Pennsylvania, a rural community nestled in the heart of Huntingdon County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare accessibility. Evaluating the available transportation infrastructure is crucial for understanding the overall health of the community. The score will consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the ease – or difficulty – residents face in reaching vital medical care.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Shade Gap is the geographical isolation. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in Huntingdon and Chambersburg, necessitating travel on various roads. Residents primarily rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary routes include Pennsylvania Route 75, a two-lane highway that serves as a vital artery connecting Shade Gap to the larger towns. Travel on this road can be slow, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are significant. Reaching the UPMC-operated hospital in Chambersburg, roughly 45 miles away, can take over an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The journey typically involves navigating Route 75, connecting to Interstate 81 (I-81) North, and then exiting toward Chambersburg. The drive to the J.C. Blair Memorial Hospital in Huntingdon, approximately 30 miles away, is shorter, usually taking around 45 minutes, but still requires traversing Route 75 and then Pennsylvania Route 26.

Public transportation options are limited. The Huntingdon County Transit Authority (HCTA) provides some bus service, but its routes and schedules are not designed to specifically serve the needs of Shade Gap residents seeking healthcare. The limited routes and infrequent schedules present a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. Furthermore, the HCTA's ADA-accessible features may not fully address the needs of all individuals with disabilities, particularly those requiring specialized medical equipment or assistance.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is often inconsistent and subject to driver availability. The rural nature of Shade Gap can make it difficult to secure a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes. The reliability of ride-sharing for critical medical appointments is therefore questionable.

Medical transport services are available, but they are often reserved for emergencies or patients requiring specialized care. Ambulance services, provided by local volunteer fire companies and private ambulance companies, are the primary means of emergency medical transport. Non-emergency medical transportation services, such as those offered by various private companies, can be arranged for scheduled appointments, but these services often require advance booking and may be costly.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 17255 is negatively impacted by the transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the long drive times to medical facilities, the limited public transportation options, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. The cost and availability of medical transport services further compound these difficulties.

Moving to Shade Gap requires careful consideration of these healthcare access limitations. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and capabilities, and consider the potential impact of long drive times on their health and well-being. Those with pre-existing medical conditions or limited mobility should pay particular attention to the availability of medical transport services and the accessibility of healthcare facilities.

The healthcare access landscape in Shade Gap presents a complex picture. While the community has access to healthcare facilities, the transportation challenges significantly impede access. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach. Improving public transportation options, expanding ride-sharing services, and increasing the availability of medical transport services are all crucial steps.

Furthermore, the community could benefit from initiatives aimed at promoting telehealth services, which can reduce the need for in-person visits. Encouraging the development of local healthcare services, such as primary care clinics or urgent care centers, could also improve healthcare access.

The health score in Shade Gap is not simply about the availability of medical facilities; it is also about the ability of residents to reach those facilities. The transportation infrastructure is a critical determinant of health outcomes. Improving healthcare access requires a commitment to addressing the transportation challenges that residents face.

The challenges facing Shade Gap residents are not insurmountable. With strategic planning, community collaboration, and investment in transportation infrastructure, the community can improve healthcare access and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to live healthy lives.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 17255 reflects the interconnectedness of transportation and health. Addressing the transportation challenges is not just about improving access to medical care; it is about improving the overall health and well-being of the community.