17765, Roaring Branch, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17765, Roaring Branch, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.66 percent of residents in 17765 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Troy Community Hospital with a distance of 16.02 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17765 (Roaring Branch, PA)

The pursuit of well-being is a complex journey, and access to quality healthcare forms a critical cornerstone. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP code 17765, Roaring Branch, Pennsylvania, to assess its impact on residents' overall health. We'll examine the drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods available, painting a vivid picture of healthcare accessibility in this rural community. This assessment is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Roaring Branch, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

Roaring Branch, nestled within the heart of Lycoming County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting, characterized by rolling hills and verdant forests, often translates to longer travel distances for essential services. This geographical reality significantly influences the "Overall Health Score" of the area, as the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare directly impacts the health and well-being of its residents. The ability to reach a doctor's office, a hospital, or a pharmacy quickly and efficiently is paramount, especially in emergency situations.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to larger medical facilities typically involves navigating a network of highways and roads. From Roaring Branch, the primary artery is Route 14, which meanders through the scenic countryside. Depending on the destination, drivers may then connect to Route 220, a major north-south thoroughfare. This route provides access to larger towns like Williamsport, home to UPMC Williamsport Hospital, a regional medical center.

The drive time to Williamsport, approximately 30 miles, can vary significantly depending on traffic and weather conditions. Under ideal circumstances, the journey might take around 45 minutes to an hour. However, during peak hours or inclement weather, this time could easily extend. The winding nature of Route 14 and the potential for seasonal hazards, such as snow and ice during the winter months, can further complicate travel.

Smaller towns like Canton and Towanda, offering limited healthcare options, are accessible via Route 14 and connecting roads. These trips are generally shorter, but the facilities may not provide the same breadth of services as the larger hospitals in Williamsport. This emphasizes the importance of understanding the specific healthcare needs of an individual and the corresponding travel time required to meet those needs.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Roaring Branch and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. Lycoming County operates a public transit system, primarily serving the Williamsport area. However, the routes and schedules are not designed to cater to the specific needs of Roaring Branch residents. The lack of frequent service and the long travel times make public transit an impractical option for most healthcare appointments, especially for those with mobility limitations or urgent medical needs.

Furthermore, the accessibility of existing public transit options is a crucial consideration. While the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features on public transit vehicles, the limited service in Roaring Branch may not adequately address the needs of individuals with disabilities. This further exacerbates the challenges faced by residents seeking healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamsport area, but their presence in Roaring Branch is inconsistent. Availability may be limited, and wait times could be extended, making them unreliable for urgent medical situations. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments or longer distances.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Services and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who lack access to personal vehicles. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and residents should research and plan in advance to ensure their needs are met.

**The Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP code 17765 reflects a mixed picture. While the area offers a beautiful and peaceful environment, the transportation challenges pose a significant hurdle. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit and inconsistent ride-sharing options, creates a potential barrier to timely and convenient healthcare access.

The drive times to larger medical facilities in Williamsport can be substantial, particularly during inclement weather. The lack of readily available public transit exacerbates the situation, especially for individuals with disabilities or those who cannot drive. While medical transportation services offer a viable alternative, their availability and cost must be carefully considered.

For individuals considering moving to Roaring Branch, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Understanding the drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of alternative transportation options is essential for making an informed decision. Proactive planning, including identifying preferred medical providers and establishing transportation arrangements, is vital for ensuring access to necessary healthcare services.

In conclusion, while Roaring Branch offers a desirable quality of life, the transportation infrastructure surrounding healthcare access necessitates careful consideration. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the need for residents to be proactive in planning for their healthcare needs, recognizing the challenges posed by the rural environment and the limited transportation options. The ability to navigate these challenges effectively is crucial for maintaining and improving the health and well-being of the community.