17880, Swengel, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17880, Swengel, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 17880 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17880 (Swengel, Pennsylvania)

This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 17880, focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access. Understanding the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities is paramount to their well-being. This analysis delves into the complexities of transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view for those considering moving to Swengel or seeking to improve their healthcare access.

The "Overall Health Score" considers several factors, including the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of various transportation modes, the presence of ADA-compliant options, and the overall cost associated with reaching medical care. This score is not a simple numerical value but a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access in this specific geographic area.

Swengel, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Union County, presents unique transportation challenges. The rural nature of the area, coupled with limited public transit infrastructure, significantly impacts healthcare access. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle, making the drive-time to healthcare facilities a crucial factor in the "Overall Health Score."

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from Swengel are US Route 15 and Pennsylvania Route 45. These roads, while well-maintained, can experience traffic during peak hours, potentially delaying access to medical care. The drive to the nearest hospitals, such as Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, typically takes around 20-30 minutes under ideal conditions. However, factors like weather, accidents, or road construction can extend this commute, impacting the overall health score.

Other essential roads include Pennsylvania Route 235, which provides a more direct route to some healthcare providers in the Mifflinburg area. However, this route is often less traveled and may not be as well-maintained as the primary highways, potentially affecting travel times and safety. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact the "Overall Health Score."

Public transportation options in and around Swengel are limited. The primary provider is primarily the Union County Transportation Authority (UCTA), which operates a demand-response system. This means that riders must schedule their trips in advance, making it less convenient for urgent medical needs. While the UCTA offers ADA-compliant vehicles, the availability and scheduling constraints can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for individuals with disabilities or those without personal vehicles.

The UCTA's service area covers much of Union County, including Lewisburg and Mifflinburg, where many healthcare providers are located. However, the frequency of service and the need for advance booking can make it challenging for residents of Swengel to access timely medical care. The lack of fixed-route bus service further compounds this issue, making the "Overall Health Score" for public transit access relatively low.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and availability in rural areas like Swengel can be inconsistent. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. While these services offer a potential alternative to personal vehicles, their limitations impact the "Overall Health Score."

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility issues or those needing specialized assistance, are also available. Companies like First Transit or local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) and are essential for individuals who cannot drive or use public transit. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be expensive, influencing the "Overall Health Score."

The availability of these services is a crucial aspect of the "Overall Health Score." The more readily available and affordable these options are, the higher the score. The presence of ADA-compliant transportation options is also a significant factor, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access medical care without undue difficulty.

Furthermore, the distance to various healthcare facilities plays a vital role. The proximity to primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and urgent care centers directly impacts the "Overall Health Score." The closer these facilities are, the easier it is for residents to access the care they need.

The availability of specialty care is another crucial consideration. Residents of Swengel may need to travel further to access specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, or oncologists. The drive-time to these specialists, and the availability of transportation options to reach them, are significant components of the "Overall Health Score."

The cost of transportation also impacts the "Overall Health Score." The expenses associated with owning and maintaining a vehicle, the cost of public transit, and the fees for ride-sharing or medical transport all contribute to the overall financial burden of healthcare access. The affordability of transportation options is a critical factor in determining the "Overall Health Score."

The "Overall Health Score" for ZIP Code 17880 is moderate, with challenges stemming from the rural location and limited public transportation options. While personal vehicles offer the primary mode of transportation, the drive-time to healthcare facilities, coupled with the potential for traffic delays and weather-related disruptions, can negatively impact access. The limited availability and reliability of ride-sharing services, along with the cost of medical transportation, further contribute to the challenges.

However, the presence of medical transportation services and the availability of the UCTA, despite its limitations, offer some support for residents. The proximity of healthcare facilities in Lewisburg and Mifflinburg also helps to mitigate some of the transportation challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Swengel, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is crucial. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the availability and accessibility of transportation services. Individuals with chronic health conditions or frequent medical appointments should consider the drive-time to their healthcare providers and the potential costs associated with transportation.

Improving the "Overall Health Score" for ZIP Code 17880 requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing the frequency and reach of the UCTA, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation, and promoting the availability of medical transportation services are all potential strategies. Investing in road infrastructure to improve safety and reduce travel times is also essential.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" is a dynamic measure that reflects the ever-changing landscape of healthcare access. By understanding the challenges and opportunities related to transportation and healthcare access, residents of Swengel can make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The goal is to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the medical care they need, regardless of their transportation limitations.