17752, Montgomery, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17752, Montgomery, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.65 percent of residents in 17752 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center Muncy with a distance of 6.47 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17752

Welcome to the comprehensive assessment of healthcare access within ZIP Code 17752, a region encompassing the charming borough of Montgomery, Pennsylvania. This analysis aims to provide a detailed understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on residents' ability to reach essential medical services. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, culminating in an overall health score reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare in this community. This information is particularly valuable for those considering moving to Montgomery and seeking to understand the practicalities of healthcare access.

The primary consideration when evaluating healthcare access is the journey itself. For residents of 17752, the most common mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is the personal vehicle. The geographical layout of the area, nestled within the rolling hills of central Pennsylvania, necessitates reliance on roadways. The primary arteries connecting Montgomery to surrounding healthcare hubs are Route 15 and Route 405. Route 15, a major north-south thoroughfare, offers relatively efficient access to larger hospitals and specialist clinics located in Williamsport, approximately a 20-30 minute drive.

Driving to Williamsport on Route 15 is generally straightforward, although traffic can be heavier during peak commuting hours. Route 405, running east-west, provides access to local medical practices and the UPMC Susquehanna Muncy hospital, a shorter drive of around 10-15 minutes. The condition of these roads is generally good, but winter weather can pose a challenge, potentially extending travel times and necessitating careful driving. Smaller, local roads, such as Main Street in Montgomery, provide access to local physician offices and pharmacies, offering convenient options for routine medical needs.

Public transportation options in 17752 are limited, a factor that significantly impacts the overall health score. The River Valley TransitValley Transit Authority (RVTA) operates a bus service, but its routes and frequency are not extensive. The primary route serving Montgomery is likely to be Route 10, which connects to Williamsport. However, the schedule is limited, with buses running infrequently, especially on weekends and evenings. This severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, particularly for appointments that fall outside the scheduled bus hours.

The RVTA does strive to provide ADA-compliant buses, featuring ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service still present significant challenges for those relying on public transit. The lack of robust public transportation infrastructure contributes to a lower overall health score, as it limits the independence and accessibility of healthcare for many residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 17752 area, but their presence is not as widespread as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some, especially when considering the frequent need for medical appointments. While ride-sharing offers a valuable alternative to personal vehicles and public transit, its limitations in terms of availability and cost impact its contribution to the overall health score.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to assist individuals with mobility challenges, are also available in the region. Companies like First Transit and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements, such as medical necessity or insurance coverage. While medical transport provides a crucial service for those who cannot drive or use public transportation, the need for advance planning and potential limitations in availability can still pose challenges.

The availability of these services, however, is a positive factor in the overall health score, as it ensures that individuals with specific needs have access to transportation. The presence of medical transport options helps to mitigate some of the accessibility challenges posed by limited public transit and ride-sharing availability.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 17752 reflects a mixed picture. While residents with personal vehicles enjoy relatively convenient access to healthcare facilities in Williamsport and Muncy via Route 15 and Route 405, those without vehicles face significant hurdles. The limited public transit options, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the need for advance planning for medical transport services all contribute to a lower score.

The score is also influenced by the geographical characteristics of the area, which necessitate reliance on roads and make it difficult to establish a comprehensive public transportation system. The rural nature of the region presents challenges in terms of healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations or those who cannot afford or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Considering all factors, the overall health score for commuting to healthcare in 17752 is moderate. While residents with access to personal vehicles have reasonable access, the limited options for those without cars, the constraints of the public transit system, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to healthcare access for a portion of the population. For those considering moving to Montgomery, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial in assessing their ability to access healthcare services.