17814, Benton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17814, Benton, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.80 percent of residents in 17814 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berwick Hospital Center with a distance of 13.51 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17814

Nestled within the rolling hills of Central Pennsylvania, ZIP Code 17814, encompassing the charming borough of Benton, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health. A critical component of well-being is access to healthcare, and this analysis delves into the complexities of transportation, a pivotal factor in determining how easily residents can reach medical services. This evaluation considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for anyone contemplating moving to Benton or seeking to understand the healthcare access challenges and opportunities.

The very fabric of Benton's healthcare access is woven with the threads of transportation. The primary mode of travel for most residents is by personal vehicle. This reliance on cars dictates the importance of well-maintained roads and manageable drive times to medical facilities. The primary arteries connecting Benton to the broader healthcare network are Route 487, Route 239, and to a lesser extent, Route 254. These roads, while scenic, can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, potentially impacting travel times, especially during winter months.

For specialized care, residents often need to venture further afield. Bloomsburg, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Route 487 and Interstate 80, offers a broader range of medical specialists and Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital. The drive to Danville, home to Geisinger Medical Center, a regional hub for advanced medical services, is a longer journey, typically taking around 45 minutes to an hour, primarily via Route 487 and Interstate 80. These longer commutes highlight the challenges faced by those requiring frequent or urgent medical attention.

Public transportation options in Benton are limited. Columbia County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides some service, but it is primarily demand-response, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. Fixed-route bus service is not readily available within the immediate vicinity of Benton, which presents a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles. The lack of robust public transit disproportionately affects seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those who cannot afford a car, creating a healthcare access disparity.

The CCTA does offer some ADA-accessible vehicles, but the limited frequency and the requirement for pre-booking make it less than ideal for urgent medical needs. The practical implications are clear: residents relying on public transit may face significant delays and logistical hurdles when trying to reach healthcare appointments. This limited public transit landscape underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Benton and surrounding areas can be inconsistent. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which tends to be lower in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for regular healthcare appointments could be unreliable, potentially leading to missed appointments or significant wait times. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or other health conditions that prevent them from driving or using standard transportation. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the area. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. While NEMT can be a valuable resource, it often requires pre-authorization and can be subject to scheduling constraints. The availability of NEMT services is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in 17814 is influenced by a confluence of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potentially lengthy drive times to specialized medical facilities, presents a challenge. The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access, especially for vulnerable populations. The presence of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, but its effectiveness depends on accessibility and affordability.

For individuals contemplating moving to Benton, the implications are clear. Owning a reliable vehicle is practically essential for navigating the healthcare landscape. Prospective residents should factor in potential travel times to medical appointments, considering both routine check-ups and the possibility of needing specialized care. Researching the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services is also crucial, particularly for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle.

The health score for Benton's healthcare access is not solely determined by distance. It is also shaped by the availability and affordability of transportation options. The challenges are real, but there are also opportunities. Investing in improved public transit, expanding ride-sharing services, and ensuring the accessibility and affordability of medical transport could significantly enhance healthcare access for all residents.

The beauty of Benton, with its serene surroundings, offers a compelling lifestyle. However, a realistic assessment of healthcare access is essential for anyone considering making this community their home. The availability of healthcare services, coupled with the ease of transportation, is a critical element of a healthy community. Understanding the existing transportation landscape is the first step toward ensuring that all residents of 17814 have access to the healthcare they need.