17749, Mc Ewensville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17749, Mc Ewensville, Pennsylvania is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.92 percent of residents in 17749 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Muncy with a distance of 9.67 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in McEwensville (ZIP Code 17749)

This assessment delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access for residents of McEwensville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17749), evaluating the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. Our "Overall Health Score" considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking healthcare within this rural community. This information is particularly valuable for anyone considering moving to McEwensville, allowing them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The foundation of healthcare access in McEwensville rests on vehicular transportation. The primary arteries for navigating the region are Route 405 and Route 147. Route 405, a north-south thoroughfare, offers a direct route to Danville, approximately 15 miles south, where Geisinger Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, is located. The drive typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Route 147, running east-west, provides access to Northumberland and Sunbury, offering additional healthcare options, but with slightly longer travel times.

The drive to these destinations can be affected by seasonal changes. Winter weather, with its snow and ice, can significantly increase travel times and pose safety hazards, especially on secondary roads. Road maintenance and construction, while infrequent, can also cause delays. The condition of the roads themselves, while generally well-maintained, can vary, impacting vehicle performance and comfort.

Public transit options in McEwensville are limited. The Susquehanna Transit Authority (STA) provides some bus services within the region. However, these routes are infrequent, and the coverage in McEwensville is minimal. The STA Route 5, for example, might offer a connection to Northumberland, but its schedule is not designed for convenient healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, while present, may be limited, posing challenges for individuals with disabilities. The lack of robust public transportation underscores the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is sporadic. Availability is often dependent on driver availability, which can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability can be a significant barrier for individuals needing timely access to medical care. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a concern, particularly for frequent appointments or those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. Several companies, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers, operate in the region. These services typically cater to patients requiring transport to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, or other healthcare-related needs. However, these services often come with associated costs and require advance booking, which may not always align with urgent healthcare needs.

The availability and accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves are critical factors. The proximity of Geisinger Medical Center in Danville is a significant advantage for McEwensville residents. This comprehensive medical center offers a wide range of specialties and services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and advanced medical technologies. However, the drive to Danville, while manageable, still requires time and planning. Smaller clinics and primary care physicians are also available in the surrounding towns, but their service offerings may be limited compared to a major medical center.

The overall health score for transportation to healthcare in McEwensville reflects the challenges of a rural community. While the presence of Geisinger Medical Center provides a valuable resource, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access. The cost and availability of medical transport services further complicate the picture.

The impact of these transportation challenges extends beyond simply getting to appointments. It can affect the ability to receive preventative care, manage chronic conditions, and respond to medical emergencies. Individuals without reliable transportation may delay seeking medical attention, leading to poorer health outcomes. The stress and inconvenience of navigating transportation can also contribute to overall well-being.

For those considering moving to McEwensville, careful consideration of transportation needs is essential. Individuals with chronic health conditions, limited mobility, or a lack of access to a personal vehicle should carefully assess their ability to access healthcare services. Exploring options such as carpooling, utilizing medical transport services, and planning appointments strategically can help mitigate the challenges.

Ultimately, the overall health score for transportation to healthcare in McEwensville reflects a need for ongoing efforts to improve access. This might include advocating for increased public transit options, promoting ride-sharing initiatives, and supporting programs that provide transportation assistance to vulnerable populations. Improving healthcare access is crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of all residents of McEwensville.