17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

25.56 percent of residents in 17768 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Troy Community Hospital with a distance of 16.95 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17768 (Shunk, Pennsylvania)

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of Shunk, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17768) requires a deep dive into the crucial element of healthcare access, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by transportation. The ability to reach medical facilities promptly and reliably is a cornerstone of well-being, and in a rural area like Shunk, this access is often significantly impacted by geographic isolation and limited transportation options. This assessment considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access.

Shunk, nestled in the heart of Sullivan County, presents a unique challenge. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in surrounding towns, necessitating travel over winding roads and through sparsely populated areas. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from Shunk are Pennsylvania Route 487 and Pennsylvania Route 154. These roads, while scenic, are often subject to seasonal weather conditions, potentially delaying or even preventing travel, especially during winter months. The journey to larger hospitals and specialized care providers can easily extend beyond an hour, creating a significant barrier to timely medical attention.

Drive times to key healthcare providers are a critical factor in this assessment. The closest urgent care facilities and primary care physicians are likely located in Dushore, approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive via Route 487. This drive, while manageable, can be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations or those facing a medical emergency. The drive to larger hospitals, such as UPMC Williamsport, located in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, via Route 154 and U.S. Route 220, can easily take over an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. This extended travel time underscores the importance of reliable transportation options.

Public transit options in Shunk are extremely limited. Sullivan County does not have a robust public transportation system. There are no scheduled bus routes that directly serve Shunk or provide easy access to healthcare facilities. This lack of public transit significantly impacts residents who do not own vehicles, are unable to drive, or prefer not to drive. The absence of public transit places a greater reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport, further complicating healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in rural areas. While they may be available in the larger towns surrounding Shunk, their availability and reliability in the area are uncertain. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for those with limited financial resources. The absence of readily available and affordable ride-sharing services further compounds the transportation challenges faced by residents of Shunk seeking healthcare.

Medical transport services play a vital role in bridging the gap in healthcare access. Ambulance services are available in the area, and they provide emergency medical transport to hospitals. However, these services are primarily for emergencies and may not be suitable for routine medical appointments or specialized care. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers are available, but their availability and coverage area should be investigated. Companies like Medical Transportation Services (MTS) or local ambulance companies may offer NEMT services, but these services often require advance booking and may have limited availability.

The lack of diverse transportation options directly impacts the overall health score for residents of Shunk. The extended drive times, the limited public transit, and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to healthcare access. This can lead to delayed or missed appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and difficulty in managing chronic conditions. The overall health score is therefore negatively impacted by the transportation challenges.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access extends beyond the physical journey. It also affects the financial well-being of residents. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and potential parking fees can place a significant financial burden on individuals and families. The lack of convenient and affordable transportation options can also limit the ability of residents to work and earn a living, further impacting their overall health and well-being.

The demographic profile of Shunk, Pennsylvania, further highlights the importance of addressing transportation challenges. The population may include a significant number of elderly residents or individuals with disabilities, who may have limited mobility and rely on others for transportation. The lack of accessible transportation options disproportionately affects these vulnerable populations, exacerbating existing health disparities.

For those considering moving to Shunk, Pennsylvania, the transportation challenges should be a significant consideration. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and assess their ability to access healthcare facilities. The limited public transit, the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate careful planning and consideration.

To improve the overall health score for residents of Shunk, several strategies can be implemented. Investing in public transit, even if it is a limited service, could significantly improve healthcare access. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide discounted or subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Encouraging the expansion of medical transport services and ensuring their affordability and accessibility is crucial.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services can help mitigate the transportation challenges. Telehealth allows patients to receive medical consultations and care remotely, reducing the need for travel. Expanding broadband internet access in Shunk is essential to support the implementation of telehealth services.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of Shunk, Pennsylvania, is significantly impacted by the challenges of transportation. The extended drive times, the lack of public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to healthcare access. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure, promoting telehealth services, and supporting medical transport providers is essential to improving the overall health and well-being of the community. The journey to healthcare in Shunk is a complex one, and overcoming the transportation hurdles is paramount to ensuring a healthier future for its residents.