17868, Riverside, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17868, Riverside, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.01 percent of residents in 17868 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 1.89 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17868

Riverside, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Northumberland County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 17868, delves into the intricacies of transportation options available to residents seeking medical attention, ultimately providing an 'Overall Health Score' based on the ease and efficiency of reaching various healthcare facilities. The score considers factors like drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. This assessment is crucial for anyone *moving to Riverside* or already residing there, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 17868 is the reliance on personal vehicles. The major arteries influencing healthcare commutes include Route 11, running north-south, and Route 54, traversing east-west. These highways, while providing relatively direct routes, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, especially around Danville, the primary hub for medical services. The drive time to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a major regional hospital, is typically around 10-15 minutes under normal conditions. However, this can easily extend to 20-30 minutes during rush hour or due to unforeseen circumstances like accidents.

Smaller clinics and specialist offices are also scattered throughout the surrounding areas, including Milton and Lewisburg. Accessing these facilities involves navigating a network of local roads, such as Sunbury Road and River Road. The drive times to these locations are generally shorter, ranging from 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the specific destination and the time of day. However, these shorter commutes do not necessarily translate to better healthcare access, as the availability of specialized services may be limited in these smaller facilities.

Public *transportation* options in 17868 are limited, presenting a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles. The Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA) provides bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, particularly during evenings and weekends. Route 4, for instance, might offer service to Danville, but the frequency and coverage are not ideal for timely healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities, and the NCTA generally strives to meet these requirements, but the overall network's limitations remain a concern.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public *transportation*. However, their reliability and affordability can vary. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The cost of these services can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with low incomes. The convenience they offer is undeniable, but the financial aspect must be carefully considered when evaluating healthcare access.

Medical *transportation* services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Companies like MedTrans and First Transit provide non-emergency medical *transportation*, offering door-to-door service for appointments and other medical needs. These services can be invaluable for those unable to drive or use public *transportation*. However, they often require advance booking, and the cost can be substantial, potentially adding to the overall burden of healthcare access.

The presence of ambulances is critical for emergency medical situations. Geisinger Life Flight provides air *transportation* for critical cases, ensuring rapid access to advanced medical care. The response time of emergency services is a vital factor in the overall health score. The proximity of Geisinger Medical Center and other hospitals plays a crucial role in this aspect.

The *healthcare access* landscape is also affected by the availability of telehealth services. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for physical travel. This is particularly beneficial for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and specialist consultations. The adoption of telehealth services can significantly improve the overall health score, especially for residents in areas with limited *transportation* options.

Another element to consider is the availability of pharmacies and medical supply stores within the ZIP code. Easy access to medications and medical supplies is essential for managing chronic conditions and maintaining overall health. The proximity of these facilities can influence the ease with which residents can obtain necessary medical products.

The overall health score for 17868 is moderately impacted by the challenges in *transportation*. While the proximity to Geisinger Medical Center provides access to comprehensive medical services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public *transportation* create barriers for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical *transportation* options offers alternatives, but their cost and reliability can be problematic. The infrequent public *transportation* and the limited access to specialized medical care within the ZIP code itself contribute to a lower score.

The score can be improved by enhancing public *transportation* services, increasing the availability of ride-sharing options, and promoting the adoption of telehealth services. Furthermore, expanding the availability of healthcare facilities and pharmacies within the ZIP code would significantly improve healthcare access for all residents. Anyone *moving to Riverside* should carefully consider the available *transportation* options and factor them into their healthcare planning.

In conclusion, the overall health score for 17868 is somewhat moderate. While residents have access to quality healthcare, the *transportation* challenges, including limited public options and reliance on personal vehicles, pose significant hurdles. The score could be improved by focusing on enhancing *transportation* infrastructure, promoting telemedicine, and increasing the availability of healthcare facilities within the community. This assessment highlights the complexities of *healthcare access* and the importance of considering *transportation* as a critical factor in overall health and well-being.