17867, Rebuck, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17867, Rebuck, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.30 percent of residents in 17867 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 18.09 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Rebuck, PA (ZIP Code 17867)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report assesses the overall health score for residents of Rebuck, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17867), focusing on the crucial element of transportation. We delve into the realities of commuting to medical appointments, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access for those living in and considering moving to this rural Pennsylvania community.

Rebuck, nestled in the heart of Northumberland County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area dictates a heavy reliance on personal vehicles for transportation. The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in surrounding towns and cities, requiring residents to navigate winding country roads and potentially congested highways.

**Drive Times and Road Networks: A Personal Vehicle Perspective**

The primary arteries connecting Rebuck to healthcare facilities are Pennsylvania Route 147 and Pennsylvania Route 225. These roads, while scenic, can be slow-going, especially during peak traffic hours. Residents often utilize these routes to reach larger towns like Sunbury and Shamokin, where a greater concentration of medical services exists.

A drive to Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, a regional medical center, necessitates a journey via Route 147 and Interstate 80. This commute, covering approximately 35 miles, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions and the time of day. The presence of Interstate 80 offers a faster, more direct route, but the potential for delays due to accidents or construction is a constant consideration.

Similarly, accessing Geisinger Shamokin Area Community Hospital involves a drive along Route 225 and then onto Route 61. This route, approximately 15 miles, typically takes 25 to 40 minutes. The winding nature of these roads, particularly Route 225, can be a challenge for elderly residents or those with mobility limitations.

The overall drive-time burden for residents of Rebuck is a significant factor in assessing healthcare access. The time spent commuting translates to time lost from work, family, and other essential activities. This extended travel time can also discourage individuals from seeking preventative care or adhering to treatment plans.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Potential Challenges**

Public transportation options in Rebuck are extremely limited. Northumberland County does offer a public transit system, but its routes and frequency are not designed to cater to the specific needs of healthcare access. The primary route serving the area is the Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA) route 105.

Route 105 travels to Shamokin and Sunbury, providing a potential connection to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of service is limited, with buses running on a set schedule, often with long gaps between departures. This can make it difficult to coordinate appointments and return trips. Furthermore, the accessibility of the NCTA system is a critical consideration. While the NCTA is mandated to provide ADA-compliant vehicles, the rural nature of the area and the limited route coverage can present challenges for individuals with disabilities.

The lack of robust public transit options significantly impacts the health score for Rebuck residents. Those without access to a personal vehicle, or those unable to drive due to age or disability, face considerable barriers to accessing medical care.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Alternative Solutions**

The rise of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, has offered an alternative transportation solution in many areas. However, their availability in Rebuck is limited. The rural nature of the area and the relatively low population density make it less attractive for ride-sharing drivers. This means that residents cannot always rely on these services for transportation to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from healthcare facilities, offer a more specialized solution. Several medical transportation providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private companies. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, assisting patients with mobility challenges. However, these services often come at a higher cost than public transit or ride-sharing, creating a financial barrier for some residents.

The availability of medical transportation services is a positive aspect of the overall health score. However, the cost and limited availability of these services can still present challenges for some residents.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The overall health score for residents of Rebuck, Pennsylvania, reflects a complex interplay of factors related to healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, coupled with the limited public transit options, presents significant challenges. Drive times to healthcare facilities are substantial, potentially discouraging preventative care and impacting adherence to treatment plans.

The lack of readily available ride-sharing services and the cost of medical transportation further compound these challenges. These factors contribute to a lower overall health score, indicating potential barriers to accessing timely and appropriate medical care.

**Moving to Rebuck: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Rebuck, a thorough understanding of healthcare access is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential impact of drive times and limited public transit options.

Individuals with mobility limitations or those who do not drive should prioritize the availability of medical transportation services. They should also investigate the potential for utilizing family members, friends, or community resources for transportation assistance.

The availability of telehealth services, which allow patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, may offer a partial solution to the transportation challenges. However, telehealth is not a substitute for in-person care, particularly for certain medical conditions.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Transportation Solutions**

The overall health score for Rebuck residents is impacted by the challenges of healthcare access. The community could benefit from initiatives to improve transportation options. This could include expanding the frequency and reach of public transit, incentivizing ride-sharing services, or providing financial assistance for medical transportation.

Investing in these improvements would not only enhance healthcare access but also improve the overall quality of life for residents of Rebuck. Addressing these transportation barriers is essential for fostering a healthier and more vibrant community. The journey to healthcare should be a manageable one, not an obstacle to well-being.