17724, Canton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17724, Canton, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.27 percent of residents in 17724 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Troy Community Hospital with a distance of 10.07 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Canton, PA (ZIP Code 17724)

Considering a move to Canton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17724)? Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount to your overall well-being. This report provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, focusing on the accessibility of medical services, considering transportation options, and their impact on your health. We'll explore the landscape, examining drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services available to residents.

The "Overall Health Score" is a holistic metric, factoring in the time and effort required to reach medical facilities. It considers the availability and reliability of transportation, the proximity of healthcare providers, and the potential impact of these factors on your health. A higher score indicates easier access to healthcare, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

**Driving to Healthcare: Navigating the Roads**

Canton, nestled in Bradford County, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary arteries for healthcare access are Pennsylvania Route 414 and U.S. Route 15. Driving to the nearest hospitals and specialist clinics requires navigating these roads, potentially impacted by weather conditions, especially during the winter months.

The drive to UPMC Williamsport, the closest major hospital, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific location within Canton. This journey predominantly involves Route 414, connecting to U.S. Route 15, then onto Interstate 180. The road conditions, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact this travel time.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities are located in nearby towns like Troy and Towanda. These destinations, while closer, still require a car and can take between 20 to 40 minutes via Route 414 or Route 6, depending on the specific location and traffic.

The reliance on personal vehicles presents a challenge for those without a car or who are unable to drive. The time commitment for appointments, and the potential for unexpected delays due to road conditions, are crucial factors in evaluating the overall health score for this region.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Canton are extremely limited. Bradford County Transportation Authority (BCTA) provides some bus services, but these are primarily focused on serving the needs of the elderly and disabled. These routes are not frequent and may not directly connect Canton with major healthcare facilities.

BCTA buses, if available, are not ADA-compliant, which can be a significant barrier for individuals with mobility impairments. The infrequent schedules and limited routes make public transit an unreliable option for routine medical appointments or urgent care needs. This lack of robust public transportation significantly impacts the overall health score, particularly for those who cannot drive.

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

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Canton or the surrounding areas. This further exacerbates the challenges of accessing healthcare for those without personal vehicles.

Medical transport services, however, offer a crucial lifeline for individuals needing assistance. Companies like LifeLine Ambulance and other local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to appointments. These services can be pre-booked, offering a scheduled and reliable way to reach medical facilities.

The availability of medical transport services positively impacts the overall health score, but it is essential to consider the cost and availability of these services. Pre-booking is usually required, which might not be ideal for urgent medical needs.

**Healthcare Access and the "Overall Health Score"**

The "Overall Health Score" for Canton, PA (ZIP Code 17724) is moderately impacted by the factors discussed. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the lack of ride-sharing services present challenges.

The drive times to major hospitals and specialist clinics, while manageable, can be a significant barrier for those without a car or facing mobility limitations. The availability of medical transport services offers a solution, but the cost and pre-booking requirements must be considered.

The geographic isolation of Canton, while offering tranquility, necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation when assessing healthcare access. The overall health score reflects this reality, highlighting the need for residents to prioritize transportation planning when seeking medical care.

**Moving to Canton: A Healthcare Perspective**

If you're considering moving to Canton, PA, it's crucial to factor in the healthcare access challenges. Evaluate your transportation needs and consider the availability of medical transport services.

Assess your ability to drive or the availability of family or friends who can provide transportation. If you rely on public transportation, understand the limitations of the BCTA services. Research the cost and availability of medical transport services in your area.

For individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments, a move to Canton necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare access. Planning and preparation are key to ensuring your health needs are met.

The "Overall Health Score" serves as a valuable tool for prospective residents. It provides a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare in Canton. By understanding these factors, you can make informed decisions about your health and well-being.

**Conclusion**

Canton, PA, presents a unique healthcare landscape. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle, healthcare access is primarily reliant on personal vehicles. The limited public transit and lack of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning for medical appointments.

The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial lifeline, but the cost and pre-booking requirements must be considered. The "Overall Health Score" reflects these realities, highlighting the importance of transportation planning for residents.

Ultimately, a move to Canton requires a proactive approach to healthcare. By understanding the transportation options and planning accordingly, residents can ensure their health needs are met and enjoy the benefits of this charming community.