18614, Dushore, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18614, Dushore, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.02 percent of residents in 18614 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Troy Community Hospital with a distance of 27.73 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Dushore, PA (ZIP Code 18614)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Dushore, Pennsylvania, hinges significantly on their ability to access healthcare. This write-up meticulously examines the transportation infrastructure available to residents of ZIP code 18614, analyzing drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services. We'll consider the challenges and opportunities faced by those seeking medical care, providing a comprehensive overview of healthcare access in this rural community, essential information for anyone considering moving to Dushore.

Dushore, nestled in the heart of Sullivan County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The area's rural nature and limited public transit options necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. This dependence directly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without cars, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities. The "Overall Health Score" for this community is therefore inextricably linked to the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary arteries serving Dushore are Pennsylvania Route 220 and Route 487. Route 220, a north-south thoroughfare, connects Dushore to larger towns like Towanda to the north and Williamsport to the south. Route 487, running east-west, provides access to communities like Lopez and New Albany. Travel times can vary significantly depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the distance to the healthcare provider.

For routine appointments and basic medical needs, residents often rely on facilities within a 30-minute drive. This includes the Guthrie Clinic in Towanda, approximately a 30-minute drive north via Route 220. UPMC Muncy, located south of Dushore, is about a 45-minute drive. The availability of specialists and advanced medical services often necessitates longer journeys.

Reaching larger hospitals and specialized care centers in cities like Scranton (approximately a 2-hour drive) or Binghamton, NY (about a 1.5-hour drive) requires significant travel time. This can be a considerable barrier for individuals needing urgent care or specialized treatments. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can further complicate transportation, potentially delaying or preventing access to essential medical services.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation in Dushore and the surrounding areas is extremely limited. The lack of a robust public transit system significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles. This situation underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions.

There are no regularly scheduled bus routes directly serving Dushore. The lack of public transportation represents a major hurdle to healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Services:**

Recognizing the transportation challenges, several ride-share and medical transportation services are available, though their availability and coverage may be limited. These services play a crucial role in bridging the gap in healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may have limited presence in the Dushore area. Availability may depend on driver density and demand. Booking a ride may require advance planning, and wait times could be longer than in urban areas.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during travel. Companies like MedRide and First Transit, though not necessarily operating directly in Dushore, may offer services in the broader region, connecting residents to healthcare facilities. These services often require advance booking and may involve associated costs.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation and transportation services must be accessible to individuals with disabilities. While the lack of a robust public transit system in Dushore limits ADA-compliant options, ride-sharing and medical transportation services are often equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers to assist passengers.

**Overall Health Score Implications:**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents of Dushore, PA (18614) is significantly impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the lack of public transit, creates challenges for those seeking healthcare. The long drive times to access specialized medical care and the potential for weather-related delays further complicate the situation.

While ride-share and medical transportation services offer alternative solutions, their availability and associated costs must be considered. The absence of readily available public transit, especially for those without access to a car, is a significant barrier to healthcare access.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

Improving healthcare access in Dushore requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transit options, even on a limited basis, could significantly improve healthcare access. Encouraging the development of ride-share services and medical transportation providers could also help.

For individuals considering moving to Dushore, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Understanding the drive times to medical facilities, the availability of alternative transportation services, and the potential challenges associated with accessing healthcare is crucial. Careful planning and consideration of these factors are paramount to ensuring healthcare access and maintaining a high "Overall Health Score" in this rural community.