17857, Northumberland, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17857, Northumberland, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.93 percent of residents in 17857 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 11.08 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17857

The idyllic charm of Northumberland, Pennsylvania, nestled along the Susquehanna River, presents a unique health landscape. Prospective residents considering moving to Northumberland (ZIP code 17857) will find that while the area offers natural beauty and a sense of community, healthcare access requires careful consideration. This comprehensive analysis evaluates the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare accessibility, ultimately providing an "Overall Health Score" for this region.

The score reflects the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, encompassing drive times, public transportation options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This assessment is critical for individuals and families prioritizing healthcare access when choosing a new home.

**Drive Time and Road Network:**

The primary mode of transportation in Northumberland is the personal vehicle. Navigating the region relies heavily on a network of state roads and highways. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Route 147, Route 11, and Route 642. These roads connect Northumberland to larger towns and cities where hospitals and specialized medical services are concentrated.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant factor. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a major regional hospital, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg is about a 25-35 minute drive. These times can fluctuate based on weather conditions, particularly during winter months. Access to emergency services is crucial, and this drive time must be considered in urgent situations.

The road infrastructure, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting travel times. The absence of major highways directly through Northumberland means that travel to larger metropolitan areas for specialized care can be time-consuming. The overall road network presents a moderate level of convenience for accessing healthcare, but the drive times require careful planning and consideration.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Northumberland are limited. The primary provider is the Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA). The NCTA operates a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is available to residents throughout the county, including those in ZIP code 17857.

While the NCTA aims to provide transportation to medical appointments, the scheduling process and potential wait times can be a barrier for some. The availability of rides can also be limited, particularly during peak hours or for appointments scheduled on short notice. The NCTA offers ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring transportation for individuals with disabilities. However, the reliance on pre-scheduled rides and the potential for longer travel times due to multiple pick-ups and drop-offs can impact healthcare access.

The lack of fixed-route bus services directly serving Northumberland further limits public transportation options. Individuals without access to a personal vehicle or who are unable to drive due to age or disability may face significant challenges in reaching healthcare facilities. The limited public transportation infrastructure significantly impacts the overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, is present in the region, although their frequency and reliability can vary. While these services offer a potential alternative to personal vehicles or public transportation, their availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for individuals requiring assistance. Ambulance services are readily accessible in emergencies. NEMT providers offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, often for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive.

The availability of these services enhances healthcare access, but the cost and potential for scheduling difficulties should be considered. The reliance on these services, especially for routine appointments, can add to the overall complexity of healthcare access. The integration of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides a supplementary layer of transportation options, but they do not fully compensate for the limitations of other modes.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

Beyond transportation, other factors influence healthcare access in Northumberland. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within the community is crucial. While Northumberland itself may have limited medical facilities, its proximity to Danville and Lewisburg provides access to a wider range of healthcare services.

The insurance coverage and financial resources of residents also play a significant role. The ability to afford healthcare services, including transportation costs, impacts the overall health score. Individuals with limited financial resources or inadequate insurance coverage may face additional barriers to accessing care.

The overall health score is also influenced by the availability of preventative care, health education programs, and community health initiatives. These factors contribute to the overall health and well-being of residents, impacting the demand for healthcare services.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion:**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Northumberland (ZIP code 17857) is **moderate**. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, coupled with drive times to major healthcare facilities, presents a moderate level of convenience. The limited public transportation options and the potential for scheduling difficulties with demand-response services are significant limitations.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides supplementary options, but they do not fully compensate for the challenges. The proximity to larger towns with more extensive healthcare services mitigates some of the limitations.

For individuals considering moving to Northumberland, careful planning is essential to ensure adequate healthcare access. This includes assessing personal transportation needs, understanding public transportation options, and exploring the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Evaluating the location of healthcare providers and considering the potential for travel time is also vital.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" reflects the need for proactive planning and awareness of the transportation infrastructure to ensure that residents can effectively access the healthcare services they require. This assessment empowers prospective residents to make informed decisions, prioritizing their health and well-being when choosing to make Northumberland their home.