17850, Montandon, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17850, Montandon, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.81 percent of residents in 17850 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 13.28 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Montandon, PA (ZIP Code 17850)

The pursuit of optimal health is a journey, and the ease with which one can access healthcare is a critical determinant of its success. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Montandon, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17850), focusing on the crucial element of transportation to healthcare facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. For those considering moving to Montandon, this assessment offers a valuable insight into the practicalities of healthcare access.

Montandon, a small community nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing healthcare. The rural setting, while offering tranquility, often translates to longer travel times and limited transportation options. The "Overall Health Score" aims to quantify these factors, providing a clear picture of the realities faced by residents in their pursuit of wellness.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Montandon is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The efficiency and flexibility of driving are paramount in this rural environment. The most direct route to the nearest significant healthcare hub, Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, involves traveling approximately 10 miles via **Route 45** and then **Route 15**. Under ideal traffic conditions, this journey typically takes around 20-25 minutes.

However, the "Overall Health Score" must account for potential delays. Traffic on **Route 15** can be heavier during peak hours, particularly during the morning and evening commutes. Additionally, seasonal weather conditions, such as snow and ice during the winter months, can significantly impact drive times, potentially extending them considerably. The score reflects these considerations, acknowledging the variability in travel times based on external factors.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further afield. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a regional healthcare powerhouse, is approximately 25 miles away, accessible primarily via **Route 15** and **Interstate 80**. This journey could take upwards of 40 minutes, depending on traffic. The "Overall Health Score" takes into account the increased time commitment and the potential for greater strain on individuals seeking specialized treatments.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Montandon are limited, a common challenge in rural areas. The primary provider of public transit in the area is the Susquehanna Transit Authority (STA). STA operates a fixed-route bus service, but the routes and schedules are not designed to facilitate easy access to healthcare facilities. The STA's services may not directly serve Montandon, requiring residents to travel to a central hub to access a bus.

The STA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to transportation. However, the limited frequency and coverage of the bus routes pose a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the challenges associated with relying on public transit for medical appointments, acknowledging its limitations in terms of frequency, coverage, and convenience.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Montandon area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent. The rural nature of the area means that drivers may be less readily available, and wait times can be significantly longer than in more urban environments. The "Overall Health Score" considers the potential for delays and the associated stress of relying on ride-sharing services for critical healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Life Line Ambulance Service and Geisinger Medical Transport operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services can be invaluable for individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to other transportation options. The "Overall Health Score" incorporates the availability of these services, recognizing their crucial role in ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Montandon:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Montandon, PA (ZIP Code 17850) is moderate. While Evangelical Community Hospital is relatively accessible by car, the limited public transit options and the potential for longer travel times to specialized care facilities and during inclement weather present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent, and reliance on them can be precarious. The presence of medical transport services is a positive factor, providing a crucial safety net for individuals with specific needs.

For those considering moving to Montandon, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Individuals who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the challenges associated with accessing healthcare. Those who drive and have a personal vehicle will likely find healthcare access more manageable, though they must still account for potential delays and weather-related disruptions.

The "Overall Health Score" serves as a guide, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning. Residents should familiarize themselves with the available transportation options, including drive times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing availability. Establishing relationships with local healthcare providers and understanding the services offered by medical transport companies can also enhance healthcare access.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a static measure. It is a dynamic reflection of the evolving healthcare landscape and the transportation infrastructure within Montandon. As the community grows and healthcare services expand, the score may improve. However, for the present, residents must remain mindful of the transportation challenges and proactively manage their healthcare access to ensure their well-being. This assessment emphasizes the importance of transportation in healthcare access, a critical consideration for anyone moving to or living in Montandon.