17945, Locustdale, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17945, Locustdale, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.43 percent of residents in 17945 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 11.65 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17945

Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, ZIP Code 17945, encompassing the charming community of Locustdale, presents a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities when considering its residents' overall health score. One of the most critical factors influencing this score is the accessibility of healthcare services, heavily reliant on the efficiency and availability of *transportation* options. This write-up delves into the intricacies of navigating the healthcare landscape from Locustdale, assessing drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a vivid picture for those considering *moving to Locustdale* and evaluating their *healthcare access*.

The primary mode of *transportation* for healthcare appointments in Locustdale is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The geographical layout necessitates reliance on roadways, with the primary arteries being Pennsylvania Route 54 and Pennsylvania Route 901. These roads, while offering scenic views of the surrounding Appalachian Mountains, can become congested during peak hours, impacting drive times.

For residents seeking specialized care or hospitals, the journey often extends to larger towns and cities. Heading east, the drive to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a renowned regional hospital, typically takes around an hour via Route 54 and Interstate 80. This trip can be significantly impacted by traffic, especially during the morning and evening commutes.

Traveling west, the closest hospitals are in Shamokin, approximately a 20-minute drive via Route 901. However, these facilities may have limited specialized services compared to larger hospitals. Further west, the drive to hospitals in State College, home to Penn State University, requires a longer journey, roughly two hours via Route 125 and Interstate 80.

The availability of public *transportation* in Locustdale presents a more complex picture. The primary provider is the Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA). NCTA offers limited fixed-route bus service, but these routes may not directly serve Locustdale or may have infrequent schedules, making them less practical for healthcare appointments.

Individuals requiring accessible *transportation* must consider the availability of ADA-compliant buses. While NCTA strives to provide accessible services, the limited routes and schedules may pose challenges for those with mobility impairments. Scheduling in advance and confirming availability are essential for those relying on public *transportation*.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative *transportation* option. However, their availability in Locustdale and the surrounding areas can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially adding to the overall financial burden of healthcare.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with specific needs, offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedStar and AMR (American Medical Response) provide ambulance services and non-emergency medical *transportation*, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services, while crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or medical conditions, come with associated costs and require pre-planning.

The overall health score for residents of Locustdale is significantly influenced by the challenges of accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public *transportation* options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create a complex landscape. The drive times to hospitals and specialized care facilities, coupled with potential traffic congestion, can add to the stress and inconvenience of seeking medical attention.

For those considering *moving to Locustdale*, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and *transportation* capabilities is paramount. Individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the accessibility of healthcare services.

The absence of a robust public *transportation* system necessitates a proactive approach. Residents should familiarize themselves with the NCTA routes and schedules, explore the availability of ride-sharing services, and investigate the possibility of medical transport.

Furthermore, the community could benefit from initiatives to improve *healthcare access*. This includes advocating for increased public *transportation* options, partnering with ride-sharing companies to ensure reliable service, and promoting the availability of medical transport services.

The healthcare landscape in Locustdale is not without its strengths. The presence of local medical practices and clinics provides essential primary care services. However, the need for specialized care and hospital visits necessitates careful planning and consideration of *transportation* logistics.

The overall health score for Locustdale residents hinges on a multi-faceted approach. It requires individual preparedness, community advocacy, and a commitment to improving *healthcare access*. While the scenic beauty and close-knit community of Locustdale are undeniable assets, the challenges of *transportation* to healthcare facilities must be addressed to ensure the well-being of its residents.