18631, Mifflinville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18631, Mifflinville, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.62 percent of residents in 18631 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berwick Hospital Center with a distance of 5.52 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Mifflinville (ZIP Code 18631)

Mifflinville, Pennsylvania, a charming community nestled in the heart of Columbia County, presents a unique landscape when considering overall health and, specifically, access to healthcare. This assessment delves into the transportation infrastructure available for residents to reach medical facilities, assigning an “Overall Health Score” based on factors like drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This score, while subjective, aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing residents seeking medical care, particularly for those contemplating a move to Mifflinville.

The foundation of healthcare access in Mifflinville hinges on transportation. The primary mode for most residents is personal vehicle. The area is served by several key roadways, including Interstate 80, a major east-west artery, which provides relatively quick access to larger medical centers in Bloomsburg and Danville. However, reliance on personal vehicles can create barriers for those without them, impacting overall health outcomes.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the Overall Health Score. Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital, a regional medical center, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via **PA-487** and **US-11**. This is a relatively manageable commute. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a larger, tertiary care facility, requires a longer journey, roughly 30-40 minutes via **I-80 East** and **PA-54**. The drive to the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, near Wilkes-Barre, could take up to an hour and a half, depending on traffic, primarily utilizing **I-80 East** and **I-81 North**. These drive times, while not extreme, highlight the importance of reliable transportation for Mifflinville residents.

Public transit options in Mifflinville are limited. Columbia County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides some bus service within the county. However, the routes and schedules are often infrequent and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. The CCTA does offer demand-response services, which require advance booking and may be an option for those with mobility limitations. These services often lack the frequency and flexibility of public transit in more urban areas. ADA-accessible features on CCTA buses are available, ensuring access for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Mifflinville area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents, impacting their ability to access healthcare. The reliability of these services is another factor that affects the Overall Health Score, especially for urgent medical needs.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, offer a crucial lifeline for some. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) are available, providing door-to-door service for appointments. These services often accommodate individuals with mobility issues, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The cost of these services, however, can be substantial and may not be covered by all insurance plans. The availability of these services is a positive factor, but their cost and potential limitations impact the Overall Health Score.

The Overall Health Score also considers the impact of these transportation challenges on specific populations. Seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources are particularly vulnerable to transportation barriers. For seniors, the ability to drive may diminish with age, making them reliant on alternative modes of transportation. Individuals with disabilities require accessible transportation options, which may be limited in the area. Residents with low incomes may struggle to afford ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The proximity of Mifflinville to larger towns like Bloomsburg and Danville offers access to a wider range of healthcare services. These towns offer a variety of specialists, clinics, and hospitals. However, the distance and transportation challenges can still pose obstacles. The availability of specialized care is a positive factor, but the ability to reach it is crucial.

When considering a move to Mifflinville, potential residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the available options. For those reliant on public transit, the limited service may be a significant drawback. For those without personal vehicles, the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services can be costly and potentially unreliable.

The Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in Mifflinville is moderately impacted by the transportation infrastructure. While the availability of personal vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical transport services offers options, the limited public transit, the cost of some services, and the distance to larger medical centers create challenges. The score is further influenced by the needs of vulnerable populations, such as seniors and individuals with disabilities.

The Overall Health Score for Mifflinville's healthcare access could be improved by expanding public transit routes and schedules, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and providing financial assistance for medical transportation. Promoting awareness of available resources and advocating for improved healthcare access are also crucial steps.

In conclusion, Mifflinville presents a mixed picture regarding healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transport services impact the Overall Health Score. While the community offers access to healthcare facilities, the transportation challenges require careful consideration, particularly for those contemplating a move to the area. The Overall Health Score reflects the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation options and ensure equitable access to healthcare for all Mifflinville residents.