17721, Avis, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17721, Avis, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.68 percent of residents in 17721 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital with a distance of 2.58 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17721

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis delves into the accessibility of medical services for residents of ZIP Code 17721, evaluating the transportation landscape that shapes their journey to care. We will examine drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, ultimately painting a picture of the overall health score for healthcare access in this area.

ZIP Code 17721, encompassing the town of Cogan Station and surrounding areas in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its rural nature and limited public transportation options demand a thorough understanding of the transportation infrastructure to assess its impact on the health and well-being of its residents.

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in 17721 is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Navigating the region's roads requires familiarity with the local network. Residents typically rely on Route 15, a major north-south artery, and Route 87, which provides east-west connectivity. Local roads like Wallis Run Road and Quenshukeny Road are essential for accessing smaller towns and healthcare facilities.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the location and the specific medical need. The UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Regional Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, is approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive via Route 15. Smaller clinics and physician offices in nearby towns like Jersey Shore might be accessible within a 15-minute drive. However, specialized care, such as that offered at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, requires a drive of approximately one hour and 15 minutes, primarily via Interstate 80.

Public transportation options in 17721 are limited. The Lycoming County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides some bus service, but the routes and frequency may not adequately serve the needs of all residents, especially those living in more remote areas. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they can access medical appointments without undue hardship. Route 15, the primary highway, is not serviced by LCTA.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamsport area, but their presence in 17721 might be less consistent, potentially impacting the accessibility of healthcare for those without personal vehicles. Availability can fluctuate based on driver density and demand, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This reliance on ride-sharing can also be costly, adding to the financial burden of healthcare.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. Companies specializing in medical transport, such as First Transit or American Medical Response (AMR), provide non-emergency and emergency medical transportation services. These services are particularly vital for those with mobility limitations, chronic conditions, or those requiring specialized medical equipment during transport.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 17721 is influenced by the interplay of these transportation factors. While the presence of major highways like Route 15 offers relatively quick access to larger medical centers, the limitations of public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges, particularly for those without personal vehicles. The availability of medical transport services mitigates some of these challenges, but the cost and availability of these services can still pose barriers.

The health score is also affected by the geographic distribution of healthcare facilities. While Williamsport provides a concentrated hub of medical services, residents in more remote areas of 17721 may face longer travel times to access care. This disparity underscores the need for strategies to improve healthcare access across the entire ZIP Code.

Improving healthcare access in 17721 requires a multi-pronged approach. Expanding public transportation options, including increasing route frequency and extending service to more remote areas, would significantly benefit residents. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as better road maintenance and the provision of safe pedestrian and bicycle routes, can also enhance access to healthcare.

Supporting ride-sharing services by offering subsidies or incentives can make them more affordable and accessible, particularly for low-income residents. Promoting the availability and affordability of medical transportation services is also crucial, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations or other special needs can reach their medical appointments.

Furthermore, encouraging the establishment of more healthcare facilities, such as clinics and physician offices, within the 17721 ZIP Code would reduce travel times and improve healthcare access for all residents. Telemedicine and telehealth services can also play a vital role, particularly for routine check-ups and consultations, by reducing the need for in-person visits.

The health of a community depends on the ease with which its residents can access healthcare. By addressing the transportation challenges and implementing strategies to improve healthcare access, the residents of 17721 can experience a better quality of life. The future of healthcare access in this area hinges on a commitment to innovative solutions and a dedication to ensuring that all residents can receive the care they need. The opportunity to move to Avis, a place with better infrastructure and healthcare access, should be considered.