18829, Le Raysville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18829, Le Raysville, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.48 percent of residents in 18829 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Robert Packer Hospital with a distance of 20.09 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Le Raysville, PA (ZIP Code 18829)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Le Raysville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18829) necessitates a thorough examination of healthcare access, with a particular focus on transportation options. This rural community, nestled in Bradford County, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to receiving timely and appropriate medical care. Understanding the existing infrastructure and available resources is crucial for evaluating the overall health and well-being of its population. The score will consider factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services, painting a detailed picture of the healthcare landscape.

The primary hurdle for Le Raysville residents is the distance to comprehensive healthcare facilities. The nearest hospitals, including Guthrie Towanda Memorial Hospital and Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, are located outside the immediate vicinity. This geographical reality significantly impacts healthcare access, as residents must rely on various transportation methods to reach these critical resources. The ability to navigate these distances quickly and efficiently is a key determinant of the overall health score.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for healthcare appointments. Residents typically utilize a network of highways and local roads. Route 6, a major east-west artery, is a primary route, connecting Le Raysville to Towanda and beyond. Route 706 offers north-south access, connecting to smaller towns and villages. Local roads, such as Le Raysville Road and Orwell Road, provide access to nearby communities and residences. The drive times to these hospitals can vary significantly depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location within the ZIP code. A drive to Towanda can take approximately 20-30 minutes, while a trip to Sayre might take closer to 45 minutes, or longer.

Public transportation options are limited in Le Raysville and Bradford County. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. There is no dedicated bus service that directly serves Le Raysville. Residents needing to access healthcare via public transit would need to rely on the Bradford County Transit Authority (BCTA). The BCTA offers demand-response services, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. These services may have limited operating hours and availability, especially for trips to and from medical appointments. ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit, and the BCTA strives to provide accessible vehicles and services to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the reliance on demand-response services can still create delays and logistical difficulties.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some parts of Bradford County, but their presence in Le Raysville is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density and demand. Residents cannot rely on ride-sharing as a guaranteed mode of transportation, especially during off-peak hours or for urgent medical needs. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, further limiting their access to healthcare.

Specialized medical transport services play a crucial role in bridging the gap in healthcare access, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring emergency medical care. Ambulance services, such as those provided by local volunteer fire departments and private ambulance companies, are essential for responding to medical emergencies. These services are equipped to provide immediate medical attention and transport patients to the nearest appropriate hospital. Additionally, non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services are available for scheduled appointments, providing transportation for individuals who cannot drive themselves. Companies like First Transit and LogistiCare are often contracted by insurance providers to offer NEMT services.

The overall health score for Le Raysville is significantly impacted by the challenges associated with healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create barriers for many residents. Drive times to healthcare facilities, though manageable, add to the burden, particularly for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations. The availability of specialized medical transport services, such as ambulances and NEMT, provides a vital lifeline, but their effectiveness depends on factors like response times and service availability.

Moving to Le Raysville requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and consider the potential challenges of commuting to medical appointments. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those who rely on public transit should carefully evaluate the available options and plan accordingly. Researching local healthcare providers, understanding insurance coverage, and familiarizing oneself with the local transportation resources are crucial steps in ensuring access to quality healthcare.

The overall health score for Le Raysville reflects the interplay of these factors. While the community offers a peaceful and rural lifestyle, the limitations in transportation options and the distance to healthcare facilities pose significant challenges. Improving healthcare access requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes exploring opportunities to enhance public transit services, promoting ride-sharing options, and supporting the availability of specialized medical transport. Furthermore, initiatives to attract healthcare providers to the area or expand telehealth services could significantly improve the overall health score.

The health score, therefore, is not static. It is a dynamic measure that can be improved through proactive efforts. The community's ability to address the transportation challenges and enhance healthcare access will ultimately determine the overall health and well-being of its residents. This requires collaboration between local government, healthcare providers, transportation providers, and community organizations. By working together, Le Raysville can strive to create a healthier and more accessible healthcare environment for all its residents.