17824, Elysburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17824, Elysburg, Pennsylvania is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.91 percent of residents in 17824 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 8.12 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Elysburg, PA (ZIP Code 17824)

Considering a move to Elysburg, Pennsylvania? Beyond the charm of this Northumberland County community lies a crucial consideration: access to healthcare. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, analyzing the transportation landscape impacting residents' ability to reach medical services. We delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in ZIP code 17824.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment reflecting the ease and efficiency with which residents can access necessary medical care. It considers the time commitment, cost, and potential challenges associated with transportation. A higher score indicates better accessibility, while a lower score suggests potential difficulties.

**Drive Times: The Dominant Mode of Transportation**

For residents of Elysburg, the automobile reigns supreme. The primary routes to healthcare facilities involve navigating a network of highways and local roads. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a major regional healthcare provider, is a critical destination. Traveling there from Elysburg typically involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, primarily via **PA-54 East** and **US-11 South**.

The quality of this commute is generally good, with relatively light traffic except during peak hours. However, seasonal weather conditions, particularly snow and ice during winter, can significantly impact drive times and safety. This factor necessitates careful consideration, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Other healthcare options, such as smaller clinics and specialist offices, are scattered throughout the surrounding areas. Accessing these facilities might involve shorter drives on local roads like **Shamokin Road** and **Sunbury Road**. However, the concentration of healthcare services in Danville underscores the reliance on a relatively short but crucial commute.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Elysburg are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA) provides some bus services. However, the routes and frequency of service are not designed to cater specifically to healthcare access.

NCTA Route 10, for example, offers service to Shamokin and Sunbury, potentially connecting to medical facilities in those towns. However, the schedules are infrequent, with limited weekend or evening service. This makes it difficult to rely on public transit for urgent care or appointments outside of typical business hours.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. While the NCTA strives to provide accessible transportation, the limited route coverage and infrequent service pose a considerable barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive. This is a significant factor in the overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Elysburg area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available to assist individuals who cannot drive themselves. These services typically require prior arrangements and may involve pre-authorization from insurance providers. The availability of NEMT providers in the Elysburg area is a positive factor, but the logistical complexities and potential wait times must be considered.

**Overall Health Score Assessment: A Mixed Bag**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Elysburg, PA (ZIP Code 17824) is moderate. The primary mode of transportation, driving, offers relatively quick access to major healthcare facilities like Geisinger Medical Center. However, the reliance on personal vehicles creates challenges for those without access to a car or those with mobility limitations.

Public transit options are limited and infrequent, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access. Ride-sharing services provide a potential alternative, but their availability and cost can be unpredictable. Medical transportation services offer a valuable resource for some, but the logistical complexities and potential wait times must be considered.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Proximity to Geisinger Medical Center:** A major positive factor, providing access to comprehensive medical services within a reasonable drive time.
* **Limited Public Transit:** A significant negative factor, hindering access for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** A moderate factor, offering a potential alternative but with limitations in terms of availability and cost.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** A positive factor, providing support for those who cannot drive themselves.
* **Seasonal Weather Conditions:** A factor impacting drive times and safety, particularly during winter.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

* **Advocate for expanded public transit:** Increased route coverage, frequency of service, and extended hours, particularly to connect with healthcare facilities.
* **Promote ride-sharing awareness:** Educate residents about the availability and potential benefits of ride-sharing services.
* **Support medical transportation services:** Ensure the availability and affordability of NEMT services for those who need them.
* **Explore telehealth options:** Encourage the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Moving to Elysburg presents a unique set of considerations regarding healthcare access. While the proximity to Geisinger Medical Center is a major advantage, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate careful planning. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare needs. Prospective residents, especially those with mobility limitations or those requiring frequent medical care, should thoroughly evaluate their transportation options and consider the potential challenges associated with accessing healthcare services in this community. This assessment highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and ensure that all residents can receive the care they need.