17870, Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17870, Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.02 percent of residents in 17870 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 16.91 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Selinsgrove, PA (ZIP Code 17870)

The health and well-being of a community are intricately woven with its ability to access healthcare. In Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17870), this access is significantly shaped by the available transportation options. Understanding the landscape of transportation is crucial for anyone considering moving to Selinsgrove or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare accessibility within the area.

Selinsgrove, a charming borough nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, offers a unique blend of rural tranquility and small-town convenience. However, the accessibility of healthcare services, a critical component of community well-being, relies heavily on the effectiveness of the local transportation infrastructure. This assessment aims to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities that residents face when navigating the healthcare system.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Access**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The proximity to healthcare facilities is a major factor in determining the ease of access. Selinsgrove's central location, while offering a sense of community, presents a mixed bag when it comes to drive times.

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a major regional hospital, is a crucial healthcare hub for many Selinsgrove residents. The drive to Danville, primarily via **US-11**, typically takes around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. This relatively short commute offers a reasonable level of accessibility to comprehensive medical services, including specialized care. However, during peak hours, the **US-11** corridor can experience congestion, potentially extending drive times and adding stress for those seeking urgent medical attention.

For those needing specialized care not available in Danville, the drive to larger cities like Harrisburg or Scranton becomes necessary. These trips, however, significantly increase the travel time. A drive to Harrisburg, primarily via **US-11** and **I-81**, can take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic and the specific destination within the city. Similarly, a trip to Scranton, involving **US-11** and **I-80**, can take a similar amount of time.

These longer drive times highlight a potential challenge for residents requiring frequent or specialized care. The burden of travel, both in terms of time and cost, can impact healthcare access, especially for those with mobility limitations or limited financial resources.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Selinsgrove are limited, impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Susquehanna Transit Authority (STA) provides some service in the area. However, the routes and schedules are not specifically designed for healthcare access, and often require multiple transfers.

The STA operates routes, but these are primarily focused on serving the needs of the general population, and may not be convenient for those requiring frequent medical appointments. The frequency of service is also a consideration, with limited options during evenings and weekends.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on STA buses is essential for individuals with disabilities. While the STA aims to provide accessible services, the reliability and availability of these features should be verified by potential users. The lack of readily available, direct public transit to major healthcare facilities poses a significant barrier for those unable to drive or afford alternative transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving or public transit. However, their availability in Selinsgrove is often limited, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for those with limited incomes or frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services are often provided by local ambulance companies and private medical transportation providers.

The availability and cost of these services can vary. The cost of ambulance services can be substantial, especially in emergency situations. NEMT services, while often more affordable, may require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent needs. The reliance on medical transport services underscores the importance of a robust and accessible healthcare system.

**Overall Health Score: Considerations and Recommendations**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Selinsgrove (ZIP Code 17870) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the proximity to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville offers a reasonable level of access for many, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services create challenges for certain segments of the population.

For those considering moving to Selinsgrove, it's essential to assess their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the available transportation options and their associated costs.

The community could benefit from initiatives that improve healthcare access. These could include:

* **Advocating for increased public transit service:** Expanding the STA routes and schedules to better serve healthcare facilities, including direct routes and increased frequency, particularly during peak appointment times.
* **Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services:** Negotiating discounted rates or subsidized transportation for residents with limited incomes or mobility challenges.
* **Promoting the availability of NEMT services:** Ensuring that residents are aware of the options available and that the services are affordable and accessible.
* **Supporting telehealth initiatives:** Encouraging the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for travel, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.

By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, Selinsgrove can improve its "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need. The commitment to improving healthcare access is a vital investment in the health and well-being of the entire community, making Selinsgrove an even more attractive place to live.