17739, Jersey Mills, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17739, Jersey Mills, Pennsylvania is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 17739 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital with a distance of 16.04 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Jersey Mills (ZIP Code 17739)

Jersey Mills, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of the Pine Creek Valley, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access. This analysis, focused on the crucial element of transportation, aims to provide an “Overall Health Score” for residents of ZIP code 17739, evaluating their ability to reach necessary medical services. We will delve into the realities of navigating the region, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. This assessment will offer insights for current residents and those contemplating moving to Jersey Mills, allowing for a more informed understanding of healthcare access.

The remoteness of Jersey Mills is a defining factor. The nearest significant population centers offering a comprehensive range of healthcare facilities are Williamsport, approximately 30 miles east, and Lock Haven, roughly 40 miles southwest. The primary artery connecting Jersey Mills to these locations is Pennsylvania Route 44, a winding two-lane road that offers scenic views but can be slow-going, especially during peak travel times or inclement weather. Route 44 provides the most direct route to Williamsport, while reaching Lock Haven often necessitates navigating Route 120, another rural highway that adds to the journey's duration.

Drive times are inherently variable. A trip to Williamsport, under ideal conditions, might take around 45 minutes. However, factors such as traffic, road conditions, and the driver's familiarity with the route can significantly extend this. The journey to Lock Haven could easily consume an hour or more. These drive times, while seemingly manageable, can become a significant burden during medical emergencies or for frequent appointments. The availability of reliable transportation is critical for maintaining good health, and the geographical constraints of Jersey Mills necessitate careful consideration.

Public transportation options in this rural area are limited. The primary provider of public transit in Lycoming County, where Jersey Mills is located, is the River Valley TransitValley Transit (RVT). However, RVT's services are primarily focused on the Williamsport area, with limited routes extending into the more rural areas. Currently, there are no regularly scheduled bus routes that directly serve Jersey Mills. This lack of public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, particularly seniors, individuals with disabilities, or those who cannot afford the expense of owning and maintaining a car.

The absence of robust public transit underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamsport and Lock Haven areas. However, their presence in Jersey Mills is sporadic and availability is often unreliable, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with mobility limitations, offer another avenue.

Several medical transport companies serve the broader region, including Life Line Ambulance and Susquehanna Health. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, medical transport can be expensive and often requires advance booking, making it less suitable for urgent medical needs. The availability of these services, while offering a vital lifeline, does not fully compensate for the lack of readily accessible and affordable transportation.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical consideration when evaluating healthcare access. While RVT buses are equipped with accessibility features, the lack of routes serving Jersey Mills renders this moot. Medical transport services, by their nature, are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited availability and cost of these services can still pose challenges. The overall picture reveals a need for enhanced transportation options that cater to the needs of individuals with disabilities, ensuring equal access to healthcare.

The healthcare landscape in the immediate vicinity of Jersey Mills is also a crucial element. While the town itself may not have a hospital or major medical center, the availability of primary care physicians, urgent care clinics, and specialist practices in Williamsport and Lock Haven are essential. The proximity to these facilities, while requiring transportation, is a positive factor. However, the reliance on personal vehicles or the limitations of alternative transportation solutions can still create barriers to timely and convenient healthcare access.

The overall health score for Jersey Mills, considering the transportation challenges, reflects the inherent difficulties of accessing healthcare in a rural environment. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services create significant hurdles. While medical transport services offer a vital lifeline, they are not a universal solution due to cost and logistical constraints.

For those considering moving to Jersey Mills, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and access to healthcare is essential. Factors such as age, mobility, and financial resources will significantly impact their ability to navigate the region and access necessary medical services. The ability to drive and maintain a vehicle is almost a necessity. The absence of readily available and affordable transportation options necessitates careful planning and consideration.

In conclusion, the “Overall Health Score” for Jersey Mills, concerning healthcare access, is moderate. The geographical remoteness, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the limited public transit options pose significant challenges. While medical transport services and the availability of healthcare facilities in nearby towns offer a degree of support, the overall picture highlights the need for improved transportation infrastructure and services to ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents of ZIP code 17739. This evaluation underscores the importance of proactive planning, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those without access to personal transportation, when considering a move to Jersey Mills.