17776, Waterville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17776, Waterville, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.52 percent of residents in 17776 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital with a distance of 12.24 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Waterville, PA (ZIP Code 17776)

Waterville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of the Pine Creek Valley, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare. The remoteness, a key feature of its charm, significantly impacts the overall health score due to the challenges inherent in **transportation** to medical facilities. This analysis delves into the accessibility of healthcare within and around ZIP Code 17776, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative methods, painting a picture for those considering **moving to Waterville** or assessing the area's healthcare landscape.

The overall health score for Waterville, PA, is moderately impacted by **healthcare access** limitations. While the area boasts natural beauty and a close-knit community, its geographical isolation necessitates careful consideration of how residents can reach essential medical services. The primary factor influencing this score is the distance to hospitals and specialized care centers, coupled with the limited availability of public **transportation** and the reliance on personal vehicles.

Driving is the dominant mode of **transportation** in Waterville. Residents primarily utilize Route 44, a winding two-lane highway that snakes through the valley, connecting the town to larger population centers. Access to the nearest hospital, UPMC Williamsport, necessitates a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This journey typically involves navigating Route 44 South to Route 220 South, a limited-access highway that eventually leads to Williamsport.

Alternatively, residents might need to travel to Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital, which is roughly a 30-45 minute drive via Route 44 North and Route 220 North. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can dramatically affect travel times and safety, further impacting the overall health score. The drive itself, while scenic, can be stressful for individuals experiencing a medical emergency or those with chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments.

Public **transportation** options are extremely limited in Waterville and the surrounding Lycoming County. The primary provider, River Valley TransitValley Transit (RVT), operates a fixed-route bus system primarily serving Williamsport. However, these routes do not extend into Waterville, making public transit an impractical option for most residents seeking healthcare. The lack of a readily accessible public transit system significantly reduces the health score, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or have limited mobility.

While RVT does offer ADA-accessible buses, these are confined to the Williamsport area and are not a viable solution for residents of Waterville. The absence of public **transportation** underscores the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential barriers to **healthcare access** for vulnerable populations. This deficiency warrants significant consideration for those contemplating **moving to Waterville**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in the Waterville area. Availability is not guaranteed, and wait times can be substantial, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is, therefore, not a reliable option. The infrequent presence of these services further compounds the **transportation** challenges.

Medical **transportation** services are available, but they often come with significant costs and require advance booking. Companies like Susquehanna Health Ambulance and other private ambulance services provide transportation to medical appointments and facilities. However, these services are typically reserved for non-emergency situations and may not be readily available for immediate medical needs. The cost of these services can also be a financial burden, further impacting the overall health score.

The availability of urgent care facilities and primary care physicians within Waterville is also limited. Residents often need to travel to Williamsport or Jersey Shore for routine check-ups, specialist appointments, and urgent medical needs. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of travel time, which can be particularly challenging for individuals with chronic illnesses or those requiring frequent medical attention. The lack of local healthcare options adds to the overall **transportation** burden.

The overall health score for Waterville, PA, is also influenced by the availability of emergency services. The response time for ambulances and emergency medical services (EMS) can be longer in rural areas due to the distances involved. This delay can be critical in life-threatening situations, highlighting the importance of readily accessible **transportation** to healthcare facilities. The remoteness of Waterville creates a significant challenge in providing timely emergency care.

The impact of these factors on the overall health score is considerable. The dependence on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, the infrequent ride-sharing services, and the reliance on medical **transportation** services all contribute to a lower score. This score reflects the challenges residents face in accessing timely and convenient healthcare.

For individuals considering **moving to Waterville**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is crucial. Those with chronic illnesses, mobility limitations, or without access to a personal vehicle should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing healthcare services. The remoteness of the area requires proactive planning and consideration of potential challenges.

The overall health score for Waterville, PA, is a complex equation. While the area offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the limitations in **healthcare access** due to **transportation** challenges must be acknowledged. The drive times to medical facilities, the lack of public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score.

This analysis is not meant to discourage potential residents but to provide a realistic assessment of the healthcare landscape. By understanding the challenges and planning accordingly, individuals can make informed decisions about their health and well-being when considering **moving to Waterville**. The need for a personal vehicle, the potential for long drive times, and the limited availability of alternative **transportation** options are crucial factors to consider.