17885, Weikert, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17885, Weikert, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.23 percent of residents in 17885 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Weikert, PA (ZIP Code 17885)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Weikert, Pennsylvania, nestled within the rolling hills and farmlands, the ability to reach medical professionals, specialists, and essential services directly impacts the overall well-being of its residents. This assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, aims to provide a comprehensive “Overall Health Score” for those living in or considering moving to Weikert (ZIP Code 17885).

The primary challenge in Weikert is its rural nature. This geographical reality dictates the transportation landscape, heavily reliant on personal vehicles. Public transportation options are limited, and ride-sharing services may not be readily available, creating potential barriers to healthcare access. Therefore, the Overall Health Score is significantly influenced by the ease and efficiency of personal vehicle travel.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The most direct route for healthcare access from Weikert involves driving along **Route 45** and then connecting to **Route 192** to reach the nearest hospitals and medical centers. Driving times, however, are highly variable, dependent on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination. For example, a trip to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a major regional healthcare provider, could take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, covering roughly 35 miles.

Other healthcare facilities, such as those in Lewisburg or Mifflinburg, are closer, with drive times ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the specific location and the route taken. These trips typically involve navigating local roads like **Weikert Road**, **Hartleton Road**, and **Buffalo Road**, which, while scenic, can be narrow and winding, potentially adding to travel time and difficulty, especially during inclement weather.

The condition of these roads is a crucial factor. Potholes, poor signage, and limited shoulders can increase travel time and pose safety risks, particularly for elderly residents or those with mobility issues. The Overall Health Score must consider the maintenance and upkeep of these vital transportation arteries.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation in Weikert is extremely limited. The primary provider is the Union County Transportation Authority (UCTA). However, their routes and schedules are often infrequent, primarily serving the larger towns and cities within Union County.

The UCTA does offer demand-response services, which require advance booking and may be available for medical appointments. These services, however, are not always guaranteed and can involve significant wait times. Information on ADA accessibility is available on the UCTA website, but the limited scope of services presents a major challenge for those reliant on public transit.

The lack of robust public transportation significantly lowers the Overall Health Score, particularly for individuals without access to a personal vehicle, those unable to drive, or those who prefer not to drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not consistently available in Weikert. Their presence is often dependent on driver availability and demand, which is typically low in rural areas. This lack of readily available ride-sharing further restricts healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, are available but are typically reserved for emergency situations or patients requiring specialized assistance. These services are often expensive and may not be a practical solution for routine medical appointments.

The absence of reliable and affordable ride-sharing options and the limited scope of medical transport services negatively impact the Overall Health Score.

**Impact on the Overall Health Score:**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Weikert (ZIP Code 17885) is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create potential barriers to healthcare access.

The score is further impacted by the distance to healthcare facilities, the condition of local roads, and the potential for inclement weather to disrupt travel. While residents with access to a personal vehicle can generally reach healthcare providers, those without such access face significant challenges.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Distance to Healthcare Facilities:** The proximity of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices, directly impacts the score.
* **Road Conditions and Traffic:** The quality of roads, the presence of potholes, and the level of traffic congestion affect travel times and safety.
* **Public Transportation Availability:** The frequency, routes, and accessibility of public transportation significantly impact the score, especially for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability and affordability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options are crucial factors.
* **Demographics:** The age and mobility of the population play a role, as elderly residents or those with disabilities may face greater challenges.
* **Weather Conditions:** Inclement weather, such as snow or ice, can disrupt travel and make it difficult to access healthcare.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Weikert, several initiatives could be considered.

* **Enhance Public Transportation:** Advocate for expanded UCTA routes and schedules, potentially including on-demand services tailored to medical appointments.
* **Improve Road Maintenance:** Prioritize road repairs and maintenance to ensure safe and efficient travel.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing Partnerships:** Partner with ride-sharing companies to increase driver availability and offer subsidized rides for medical appointments.
* **Promote Telehealth Services:** Encourage the use of telehealth services to provide remote consultations and reduce the need for in-person visits.
* **Community Education:** Educate residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources.
* **Invest in Infrastructure:** Support the development of community hubs or satellite clinics to bring healthcare services closer to residents.

**Conclusion:**

Access to healthcare is fundamental to a healthy community. In Weikert (ZIP Code 17885), the current transportation infrastructure presents challenges that impact healthcare access. While residents with personal vehicles can generally reach medical facilities, the limitations of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport create barriers for others. By addressing these challenges through strategic investments in transportation, promoting telehealth, and fostering community partnerships, the Overall Health Score can be improved, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive the healthcare they need. Those moving to Weikert should carefully consider these transportation factors when evaluating their healthcare access needs.