17747, Loganton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17747, Loganton, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.12 percent of residents in 17747 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Lock Haven with a distance of 11.29 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Loganton, PA (ZIP Code 17747)

Assessing the overall health of a community involves far more than just the presence of medical facilities. It encompasses the ease with which residents can access those facilities, considering factors like transportation, distance, and available options. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents of Loganton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17747), specifically focusing on their ability to commute to necessary healthcare services. The score considers the accessibility challenges and opportunities inherent in this rural area, offering insights for current residents and those considering moving to Loganton.

Loganton, nestled within the scenic beauty of Clinton County, presents unique challenges to healthcare access. Its rural setting, characterized by sprawling landscapes and limited public transportation, necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. This dependence directly impacts the Overall Health Score, as it introduces considerations of drive times, road conditions, and the financial burden of vehicle ownership and maintenance.

The primary roadways serving Loganton include Route 477, which connects the town to the larger regional network, and Route 64, offering access to the south. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience seasonal challenges due to weather conditions, particularly during winter months. Snow and ice can significantly increase drive times and pose safety risks, potentially delaying or preventing access to crucial medical appointments.

The nearest major healthcare hubs are located in Lock Haven and Williamsport, both requiring considerable travel. Reaching UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport, a comprehensive medical center, typically involves a drive of approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This journey primarily utilizes Route 477 and then connects to Interstate 80 or Route 220, depending on the specific destination within Williamsport.

Similarly, accessing Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital, another important healthcare provider, necessitates a drive of roughly 20 to 30 minutes, primarily via Route 477 and Route 220. These drive times, while manageable, can become burdensome for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical attention. The time commitment alone can significantly impact the Overall Health Score, particularly for elderly residents or those with limited mobility.

Public transportation options in Loganton are extremely limited. The Clinton County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides demand-response services, meaning residents must schedule rides in advance. While the CCTA offers transportation within Clinton County, including to medical appointments, its services are not always readily available, and the scheduling process can be cumbersome. Moreover, the limited operating hours and potential delays further complicate healthcare access. ADA-accessible vehicles are available, addressing the needs of individuals with disabilities, but the overall lack of frequency and coverage remains a significant barrier.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally unavailable in Loganton and the surrounding rural areas. This absence significantly restricts transportation options for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The lack of ride-sharing further compounds the challenges faced by individuals needing to access healthcare services.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services, are available for emergencies. However, their primary function is for acute medical needs, not for routine appointments or preventative care. The reliance on ambulance services for non-emergency transportation is costly and inefficient, impacting the Overall Health Score negatively.

The financial burden of healthcare access is another critical factor. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and potential parking fees at medical facilities adds to the overall expense of seeking care. For low-income residents, these costs can create significant financial barriers, potentially leading to delayed or avoided medical care. This financial strain further diminishes the Overall Health Score.

The availability of telehealth services offers a potential solution to mitigate some of the transportation challenges. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on reliable internet access, which can be limited in rural areas like Loganton. The digital divide, where some residents lack access to the necessary technology, can further exacerbate healthcare disparities.

The availability of urgent care facilities or walk-in clinics in the immediate vicinity of Loganton is also limited. This necessitates travel to larger towns or cities for urgent medical needs, increasing drive times and potentially delaying treatment. The absence of readily accessible urgent care facilities negatively impacts the Overall Health Score, particularly for residents requiring immediate medical attention.

The Overall Health Score for Loganton residents is, therefore, significantly impacted by the limitations in transportation and healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the absence of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for accessing medical care. The drive times to major healthcare facilities, the potential for weather-related delays, and the financial burden of transportation all contribute to a lower Overall Health Score.

For individuals considering moving to Loganton, it is crucial to carefully assess their transportation needs and their access to healthcare. Those with chronic conditions or limited mobility should be particularly mindful of the challenges associated with accessing medical services. Planning for healthcare needs, considering the potential for transportation limitations, and exploring options like telehealth are essential for maintaining good health in this rural setting.

The community could improve its Overall Health Score by advocating for expanded public transportation services, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing providers, and promoting telehealth adoption. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as better road maintenance and increased internet access, would also significantly enhance healthcare access for Loganton residents. These initiatives would contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community, improving the quality of life for all.