17728, Cogan Station, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17728, Cogan Station, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.16 percent of residents in 17728 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Williamsport with a distance of 5.55 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Cogan Station (ZIP Code 17728)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Cogan Station, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17728), focusing on the crucial element of transportation. Understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching medical facilities is paramount when considering the well-being of individuals and the overall health of the community. This score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services.

Cogan Station, nestled in Lycoming County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in terms of healthcare access. Its rural setting, while offering scenic beauty, often translates to longer travel distances to medical facilities. The assessment considers these factors to provide a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. This is particularly relevant for those contemplating moving to Cogan Station, as healthcare access should be a primary consideration.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary routes connecting Cogan Station to healthcare providers are primarily by car. The main thoroughfare is Pennsylvania Route 44, a vital artery that connects the community to Williamsport, the county seat, and the location of the largest concentration of medical facilities. Driving times to Williamsport, approximately 15 miles, can vary depending on traffic and weather conditions, typically ranging from 20 to 30 minutes.

Accessing healthcare in the opposite direction, to Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania, is facilitated by Pennsylvania Route 220. This route offers access to the UPMC Susquehanna Jersey Shore Hospital. The drive is shorter, about 10 miles, translating to a 15-20 minute drive.

The quality of the roads is generally good, with regular maintenance by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). However, winter weather can pose challenges, with snow and ice potentially impacting travel times and safety. Secondary roads, such as Cogan House Road and Quenshukeny Road, provide access to local communities but are often narrower and less well-maintained.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Cogan Station are extremely limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The primary public transit provider in Lycoming County is the River Valley TransitValley Transit (RVT). However, RVT's service area primarily focuses on Williamsport and the surrounding areas.

While RVT does offer limited routes that may extend towards Cogan Station, they are infrequent, with limited operating hours, and may not directly serve the community. The absence of a dedicated bus route within Cogan Station necessitates a trip to Williamsport, which could take up to an hour or more.

The availability of ADA-compliant features on RVT buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. RVT does provide accessible buses with ramps and other accommodations. However, the limited frequency and route coverage of public transit significantly restrict its utility for healthcare appointments. The lack of a robust public transit system highlights a major challenge for those without access to personal vehicles.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamsport area, offering a potential alternative for transportation. However, their availability in Cogan Station is variable. The rural nature of the area may result in longer wait times and higher fares compared to more urban locations. This can be a significant barrier for individuals with limited financial resources or those requiring immediate medical attention.

Medical transport services are available for individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services are often provided by ambulance companies or specialized medical transportation providers. These services are generally reserved for individuals who cannot drive themselves or who have mobility limitations.

The cost of medical transport can be substantial, and it may not be covered by all insurance plans. Therefore, the reliance on these services adds to the overall cost of healthcare access for some residents. The availability of medical transport, while essential for some, does not fully compensate for the lack of other transportation options.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for transportation and healthcare access in Cogan Station (ZIP Code 17728) is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access is a significant factor. While drive times to nearby medical facilities are relatively short, the absence of robust public transportation and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations.

The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net for individuals who require assistance. However, the cost and limitations of these services do not fully address the broader transportation needs of the community.

Moving to Cogan Station requires a careful assessment of transportation needs. Prospective residents should consider the necessity of a personal vehicle, the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport, and the limited options available for those who cannot drive. The overall health of the community depends on ensuring that all residents have access to healthcare, and transportation is a critical component of this access.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for transportation and healthcare access in Cogan Station, several recommendations are warranted.

* **Advocate for Increased Public Transit:** Increased public transit service, even if limited, would significantly improve healthcare access for residents. This could involve extending existing RVT routes or establishing a dedicated shuttle service to connect Cogan Station to medical facilities in Williamsport and Jersey Shore.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Awareness:** Educate residents about the availability and limitations of ride-sharing services. Explore potential partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted fares or programs for healthcare-related trips.
* **Expand Medical Transport Options:** Ensure that medical transport services are readily available and affordable for all residents who require them. Explore options for insurance coverage or financial assistance for medical transport costs.
* **Community Outreach:** Organize community outreach programs to educate residents about healthcare access resources, including transportation options, insurance coverage, and available medical services.

By addressing these recommendations, the community can improve the transportation infrastructure, enhance healthcare access, and ultimately, improve the overall health and well-being of the residents of Cogan Station. The focus should be on creating a more inclusive and accessible environment that supports the healthcare needs of all residents, regardless of their transportation capabilities.