17815, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17815, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.17 percent of residents in 17815 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital with a distance of 1.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17815 (Bloomsburg, PA)

Embarking on a journey to assess the overall health score for healthcare access in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17815) requires a deep dive into the intricate web of transportation options. This analysis considers the critical interplay between location, travel time, and the availability of medical facilities, ultimately painting a picture of the ease or difficulty residents face when seeking essential healthcare services. For those considering moving to Bloomsburg, understanding this landscape is paramount.

Bloomsburg, nestled in Columbia County, offers a blend of rural charm and small-town convenience. However, its location presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The town's relative isolation and reliance on personal vehicles significantly impact the overall health score. The ability to quickly and efficiently reach medical professionals, hospitals, and specialists is a cornerstone of community well-being, and this write-up seeks to illuminate the realities of that access within the confines of 17815.

**Driving the Healthcare Narrative:**

The primary mode of transportation in and around Bloomsburg is the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this mode is intrinsically linked to the quality of the road network. The primary arteries for navigating the area are US Route 11, PA Route 42, and Interstate 80. These highways and roads serve as vital lifelines, connecting residents to critical healthcare facilities.

Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital, the primary healthcare provider in the immediate vicinity, is conveniently located within the town limits. Reaching this facility from most residential areas within 17815 is typically a swift journey, often requiring a drive of less than 10 minutes. However, the urgency of medical needs can transform even short commutes into high-stress situations. Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather, can significantly impact travel times, potentially delaying critical care.

Specialist care and more comprehensive medical facilities may necessitate travel outside of Bloomsburg. For instance, Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a regional hub for advanced medical services, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Interstate 80 East. This journey, while manageable, introduces the element of travel time, which can be a significant factor in the overall health score. Other healthcare options in the surrounding area may require navigating PA Route 487, PA Route 54, and US Route 220.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Bloomsburg are limited, which significantly impacts the overall health score for those without access to a personal vehicle. The Columbia County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides bus services within the county. However, the frequency of these routes and their coverage of the entire ZIP code area may not be adequate for consistent healthcare access.

The CCTA's routes primarily serve the town's central areas and may not extend to more remote residential locations. This limitation poses a challenge for individuals who rely on public transit, particularly those with mobility issues or who live outside of the core service areas. The lack of extensive public transportation infrastructure can also be a barrier for individuals with limited financial resources, as it necessitates reliance on alternative, potentially more expensive, transportation options.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit. The CCTA is committed to providing accessible services. However, the availability of accessible routes and the ease of using these services are essential factors in determining the overall health score for individuals with disabilities.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Bloomsburg, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in times of high demand. The reliability of ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is also a concern, as wait times can vary.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals requiring assistance with medical appointments, provide a specialized solution. These services, often offered by ambulance companies or private transportation providers, cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require medical supervision during transport. While these services offer a crucial lifeline, they can be costly and may require advance booking, making them less suitable for emergencies.

**The Overall Health Score: A Composite Picture:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP code 17815 is a complex calculation. While the presence of a local hospital within the town limits provides a significant advantage, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services introduce challenges.

The commute times to Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital are generally favorable, contributing positively to the score. However, the travel times to more specialized medical facilities outside of Bloomsburg, combined with the limited availability of alternative transportation options, create a downward pressure on the overall score.

For those considering moving to Bloomsburg, a thorough assessment of their individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Individuals with mobility limitations or those without access to a personal vehicle may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare services. The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services should be carefully considered.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 17815 can be improved by expanding public transportation options, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring the affordability of medical transportation. These improvements would enhance the community's ability to access essential healthcare services, contributing to a healthier and more vibrant Bloomsburg. The ease of transportation directly impacts the quality of life and overall well-being of residents.