17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.42 percent of residents in 17760 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bucktail Medical Center with a distance of 2.29 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17760 (North Bend, PA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania, necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. This analysis considers transportation options, drive times, and the availability of various healthcare providers, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those living in this rural community. A significant factor influencing this score is the geographic isolation inherent to North Bend, nestled within the scenic embrace of the Pennsylvania Wilds.

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in North Bend is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The mountainous terrain and limited public transit options render driving the most practical and often the only viable solution. Commuting to healthcare facilities often involves navigating winding roads and traversing significant distances. The primary arteries for travel are **Pennsylvania Route 120**, the most direct route to larger towns like Lock Haven and Emporium, and **Pennsylvania Route 44**, which provides access to Williamsport.

Drive times to essential healthcare services vary considerably. The closest hospital, UPMC Lock Haven, is approximately a 45-minute drive via PA-120, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive time can be extended during the winter months when snow and ice necessitate slower speeds and caution. Specialty care, such as cardiology or oncology, often requires travel to Williamsport, a journey of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via PA-44 and Interstate 180.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in North Bend. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, and those with disabilities. The lack of regular bus routes and the absence of a dedicated transportation service tailored to medical appointments significantly diminishes the overall health score.

While public transit is scarce, it is important to note the potential for limited services. The River Valley TransitValley Transit Authority, which operates in Williamsport, does not directly service North Bend. However, potential connections might exist through a combination of routes, though this would likely involve multiple transfers and extended travel times, making it impractical for most healthcare appointments. The absence of dedicated ADA-accessible public transportation further exacerbates the challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in rural areas like North Bend. Their availability is sporadic and unreliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments is therefore not a dependable option. This scarcity further restricts healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, but their primary function is not routine transportation to doctor’s appointments. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services may be available through private providers or insurance companies, but their coverage and availability can vary significantly. Researching and coordinating these services requires proactive planning and can be a complex process.

Healthcare access in North Bend is further influenced by the availability of local healthcare providers. The presence of a primary care physician or a local clinic can significantly improve the overall health score by providing convenient access to routine check-ups, preventative care, and management of chronic conditions. The absence of these local resources necessitates longer travel times and increases the burden on residents seeking healthcare.

The overall health score is also impacted by the availability of pharmacies, dental care, and mental health services. Access to these essential services within a reasonable distance is crucial for maintaining good health. The lack of local pharmacies, dentists, and mental health professionals forces residents to travel to larger towns for these services, increasing travel time and potentially delaying necessary care.

The healthcare landscape in North Bend presents challenges, especially concerning transportation. The limited public transit, the sporadic availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles create barriers to healthcare access. The drive times to hospitals, specialists, and other essential services can be significant, adding to the stress and inconvenience of seeking medical care.

Moving to North Bend requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Prospective residents should thoroughly research the availability of healthcare providers, assess their transportation options, and factor in the potential travel times to essential medical services. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those who require regular medical care should pay particular attention to these factors.

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 17760 is therefore moderate, reflecting the challenges associated with healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the distance to healthcare facilities negatively impact the score. However, the availability of emergency services and the potential for non-emergency medical transportation services provide some degree of support.

Improving the overall health score for North Bend residents requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes exploring options for expanding public transportation, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, and encouraging the establishment of local healthcare providers. Furthermore, initiatives that support telehealth and remote patient monitoring can help bridge the gap in healthcare access, particularly for those living in geographically isolated areas.

Ultimately, the well-being of the community hinges on ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare services they need. Addressing the transportation challenges and promoting the availability of local healthcare resources are essential steps toward improving the overall health score for the residents of North Bend, Pennsylvania. This requires a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, and community organizations to create a healthier and more accessible environment for all.