17830, Herndon, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17830, Herndon, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.33 percent of residents in 17830 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 22.65 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Herndon, PA (ZIP Code 17830)

Assessing the overall health of a community involves a multifaceted evaluation, and a crucial component is access to healthcare. This analysis focuses on the accessibility of medical services for residents of Herndon, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17830), considering various transportation options and their associated challenges. Understanding these factors is vital for anyone considering moving to Herndon, as it directly impacts their well-being.

The geographic location of Herndon, nestled within Northumberland County, presents both opportunities and obstacles regarding healthcare access. The town’s rural setting means that residents often rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary roadways influencing commutes are **Pennsylvania Route 147** (a north-south artery), **Pennsylvania Route 225** (connecting to the east), and local roads. These routes, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic during peak hours, particularly around larger towns like Shamokin and Sunbury, which house significant healthcare facilities.

Drive times to the nearest healthcare facilities vary. The closest hospital, **Geisinger Shamokin Area Community Hospital** in Shamokin, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic. Reaching **UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury**, a more comprehensive facility, requires a drive of about 30-40 minutes, again contingent on traffic conditions. **UPMC Williamsport**, a larger regional hospital, is roughly an hour's drive. These drive times, while not excessively long, necessitate careful planning, especially for appointments or in emergencies.

Public transportation options within Herndon and the surrounding areas are limited. Northumberland County does provide a public transit system, but service to Herndon is infrequent and primarily focuses on connecting residents to larger towns. Route numbers are less critical than understanding the limited frequency of service. This system, while offering some ADA accessibility, is not a reliable option for regular healthcare appointments. Individuals requiring specialized medical care or facing mobility challenges will find public transit inadequate.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area but may not always be readily accessible, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Availability depends on driver density, which is lower in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. Medical transport services, such as **Care Transportation** and **Medical Transportation Services**, are available and cater specifically to patients needing assistance. These services are essential for individuals unable to drive or use public transit. However, they require advance booking and may have associated costs that add to the overall financial burden of healthcare.

The infrastructure surrounding Herndon presents challenges. The availability of sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly routes is limited, making walking or cycling to healthcare facilities impractical for many residents. This reliance on vehicles further underscores the importance of reliable transportation. Weather conditions, particularly during winter, can also significantly impact travel times and accessibility.

Healthcare access extends beyond physical transportation. Telehealth services are increasingly available and can mitigate some of the challenges associated with travel. Residents with internet access can consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, the availability of reliable internet service in Herndon, like many rural areas, can be a limiting factor.

The presence of local clinics and family practices within Herndon itself is a positive factor, reducing the need for long-distance travel for routine check-ups and basic medical needs. These local facilities provide a vital entry point to the healthcare system and often offer a more personalized level of care. However, the scope of services offered by these clinics is limited compared to larger hospitals.

Considering all these factors, the overall health score for healthcare access in Herndon, PA (ZIP Code 17830) is moderate. While the drive times to nearby hospitals are generally manageable, the limitations in public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges. Individuals considering moving to Herndon should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services that meet their specific requirements.

The availability of medical transport services and the presence of local clinics do offer some mitigation. However, the overall score reflects the need for careful planning and potential reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access. The availability of telehealth services can further improve healthcare access.

The community's health is directly linked to its ability to provide accessible and affordable healthcare. The challenges in transportation, coupled with the rural nature of the area, necessitate a proactive approach to healthcare planning. Residents should familiarize themselves with the available transportation options, the locations of healthcare facilities, and the potential for telehealth services. This proactive approach is vital for maintaining good health and well-being.

In conclusion, while Herndon offers a pleasant living environment, prospective residents must carefully consider the transportation challenges associated with accessing healthcare. The overall health score reflects a need for careful planning and a reliance on personal vehicles. The community's health is directly linked to its ability to provide accessible and affordable healthcare. The availability of local clinics and telehealth services offers some mitigation, but the overall score is moderate. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Herndon.