17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.29 percent of residents in 17864 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 23.85 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17864 (Port Trevorton, PA)

Understanding healthcare accessibility is paramount when considering a move, especially to a rural area like Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17864). This assessment evaluates the ease with which residents can access necessary medical services, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options, drive times, and available resources. This score aims to inform potential residents about the realities of healthcare access in this specific location.

The "Overall Health Score" for 17864 is primarily influenced by the challenges inherent in rural transportation. While the area boasts a serene environment, its remoteness significantly impacts healthcare access. Residents often rely on personal vehicles, which dictates the overall score. Public transit is limited, and ride-sharing services may be scarce. The score reflects these limitations, emphasizing the need for careful planning and consideration for those with mobility limitations.

**Drive Times and Highway Access:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in 17864 is the personal vehicle. The area is served by a network of rural roads and highways, with drive times varying significantly depending on the destination and time of day. Major roadways include **Route 11**, **Route 147**, and **Route 35**. These roads connect Port Trevorton to larger towns and cities where medical facilities are located.

Accessing hospitals and specialized care typically requires driving. The nearest hospitals are in Sunbury (approximately 20-30 minutes via Route 147 and Route 11), Selinsgrove (around 25-35 minutes via Route 147 and Route 522), and Lewisburg (roughly 40-50 minutes via Route 147 and Route 45). These drive times are estimates and can be affected by traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location within the ZIP code.

Specialist appointments, such as cardiology or oncology, often necessitate longer drives. Residents may need to travel to larger medical centers in Harrisburg (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes via Route 11 and US-15) or Williamsport (around 1 hour 15 minutes via Route 11 and I-180). These longer commutes can be a significant burden, particularly for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in 17864 are extremely limited. The Susquehanna Valley Transportation Authority (SVTA) provides some bus service in the surrounding areas, but service to and from Port Trevorton is infrequent and may not be a reliable option for healthcare appointments. Bus routes are designed to serve larger population centers and may not adequately cover the rural areas.

The lack of robust public transit is a significant factor impacting the "Overall Health Score." The absence of regular bus routes limits the mobility of individuals who do not drive, including seniors, those with disabilities, and those who cannot afford a personal vehicle. The SVTA does provide some ADA-accessible buses, but the limited route coverage makes it difficult to rely on public transportation for healthcare needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may have limited availability in the Port Trevorton area. The rural nature of the location and the relatively low population density may make it challenging to secure a ride, especially during off-peak hours or for urgent medical needs. Residents should not assume ride-sharing will be readily available.

Medical transportation services are available, but these options often come with added costs and require advance planning. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation. However, these services may have limitations, such as scheduling constraints or restrictions on the distance they will travel.

**Healthcare Facilities and Resources:**

While Port Trevorton itself does not have a hospital, it does have a few primary care physician offices and a pharmacy. These local resources provide essential healthcare services, such as routine check-ups, vaccinations, and medication dispensing. However, for specialized care, residents must travel to larger medical centers in nearby towns and cities.

The availability of urgent care facilities is also a consideration. The nearest urgent care centers are located in Sunbury and Selinsgrove, providing an alternative to emergency room visits for less serious medical conditions. However, these facilities are still a drive away, highlighting the importance of considering transportation options.

**Impact on the "Overall Health Score":**

The "Overall Health Score" for 17864 reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare due to transportation limitations. The score is negatively impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services. The longer drive times to hospitals and specialized care facilities also contribute to a lower score.

However, the presence of local primary care providers and pharmacies provides some degree of healthcare access within the community. The availability of medical transportation services offers an alternative for those who cannot drive.

**Recommendations for Potential Residents:**

Individuals considering a move to Port Trevorton (17864) should carefully assess their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Those with chronic conditions or limited mobility should give special consideration to the challenges of accessing healthcare.

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive and the availability of a reliable vehicle.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify the healthcare providers and specialists you may need and determine the distance to their offices.
* **Explore Medical Transportation Options:** Research the availability and cost of medical transportation services in the area.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Develop a plan for accessing emergency medical services, including knowing the location of the nearest hospitals and urgent care centers.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** If healthcare access is a top priority, consider the proximity to hospitals and specialized care facilities.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for 17864 reflects the realities of healthcare access in a rural environment. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle, healthcare access requires careful planning and consideration. Potential residents should thoroughly evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements before moving to Port Trevorton. The score highlights the importance of personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the need for proactive planning to ensure timely and convenient access to healthcare services. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to the area, helping them make an informed decision about their healthcare needs and overall well-being.