17861, Paxtonville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17861, Paxtonville, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.02 percent of residents in 17861 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 29.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 28.71 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Paxtonville (ZIP Code 17861)

Paxtonville, Pennsylvania, a charming rural community nestled within the embrace of Snyder County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, assessing the overall health score for residents necessitates a deep dive into a crucial aspect: **transportation** and its impact on **healthcare access**. This analysis meticulously examines the journey to medical care, considering various modes of transport, drive times, and accessibility features. For individuals **moving to Paxtonville**, this information is paramount for informed decision-making.

The foundation of healthcare access in Paxtonville rests on the ability to traverse the local road network. The primary arteries influencing **transportation** are Route 522, which bisects the community, and Route 35, providing access to larger towns and regional healthcare facilities. Secondary roads like Paxtonville Road and Middle Creek Road serve as connectors, but their narrower lanes and winding paths can extend travel times, particularly during inclement weather.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the overall health score. The nearest urgent care center is located in Selinsgrove, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Route 522 and then onto Routes 11/15. This is a relatively manageable commute for immediate medical needs. However, the closest hospital, Evangelical Community Hospital, is located in Lewisburg, about a 30-40 minute drive. This journey involves navigating Route 522 to Route 45, then onto US-15 North. While the roads are generally well-maintained, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can potentially add to the travel time, impacting the overall health score.

Specialist appointments and more complex medical procedures often necessitate travel to larger medical centers, such as Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a 45-60 minute drive. This journey requires using Route 522 to Route 11/15 North and then onto I-80 East. The longer drive time to specialized care facilities, coupled with potential traffic delays, presents a challenge for residents, especially those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations. The ability to efficiently reach these facilities is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Public **transportation** options in Paxtonville are limited. The primary provider is primarily the Snyder County Transportation Authority (SCTA). SCTA offers demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service, while available, may not always be the most convenient for urgent medical needs. SCTA buses do not operate on a fixed-route schedule within Paxtonville. This lack of readily available public **transportation** presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

The SCTA does provide ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the reliance on pre-scheduled rides and the limited operational hours can still create accessibility challenges. The absence of a robust public **transportation** network impacts the overall health score, particularly for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region but their presence in Paxtonville is not as consistent as in more urban areas. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be unreliable, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. This inconsistency further impacts the overall health score.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) providers, are available in the area. Ambulance services are primarily for emergencies, while NEMT services are designed for scheduled medical appointments. Several NEMT providers serve the region, including local ambulance companies and private transportation businesses. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier to **healthcare access** for some residents.

The overall health score for **transportation** and **healthcare access** in Paxtonville is moderate. While the community offers a relatively short commute to urgent care, the longer drive times to hospitals and specialist facilities, coupled with the limited public **transportation** options, present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offers alternative solutions, but their reliability and cost can be significant considerations.

For individuals **moving to Paxtonville**, understanding these **transportation** limitations is crucial. Careful consideration should be given to the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of personal vehicles, and the potential reliance on alternative **transportation** methods. Planning for medical appointments and emergencies is essential, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions.

The overall health score for Paxtonville could be significantly improved by enhancing public **transportation** options. Expanding the SCTA service, implementing fixed-route bus lines, or partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized **transportation** could greatly enhance **healthcare access**. Furthermore, promoting the use of telehealth services could reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for routine check-ups and follow-up care.

In conclusion, while Paxtonville offers a peaceful and idyllic setting, the **transportation** infrastructure poses some challenges regarding **healthcare access**. The drive times to various medical facilities, the limited public **transportation** options, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially costly alternative services impact the overall health score. For prospective residents, a thorough assessment of their individual needs and a proactive approach to planning for **transportation** to medical appointments are essential for ensuring optimal health outcomes. The community would benefit greatly from initiatives that improve **transportation** options and reduce the barriers to **healthcare access**, ultimately enhancing the overall health and well-being of its residents.