18845, Stevensville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18845, Stevensville, Pennsylvania is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.05 percent of residents in 18845 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Robert Packer Hospital with a distance of 21.73 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Stevensville, PA (ZIP Code 18845)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Stevensville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18845) necessitates a deep dive into the crucial element of healthcare access, intricately linked to the available transportation infrastructure. This analysis will explore the practical realities of reaching medical facilities, encompassing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport alternatives. This is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Stevensville, as proximity to quality healthcare is paramount to overall well-being.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Stevensville is the necessity of vehicular transportation. The town itself, nestled within the rolling hills of Bradford County, lacks a robust public transit system. Residents predominantly rely on personal vehicles to navigate the region and access medical services. The drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly impacted by the limited road network and the distances involved.

The closest major medical center, Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, Pennsylvania, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive. This journey typically involves utilizing **Pennsylvania Route 467** to connect with **U.S. Route 220**. Traffic flow on these roads is generally moderate, but weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can significantly extend travel times and pose safety challenges. Navigating these routes requires careful driving, especially during inclement weather.

Another option is the Geisinger system in Towanda, Pennsylvania, roughly 20-30 minutes away. The route involves navigating **Pennsylvania Route 414** and **U.S. Route 6**. While the distance is shorter, the roads can be winding and require attentive driving. These drives, while manageable for many, can be a considerable burden for individuals with mobility limitations, chronic illnesses, or those without reliable transportation.

Public transportation options are severely limited in Stevensville. There is no established bus service or fixed-route transit system operating within the town or connecting it directly to healthcare facilities. The absence of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive, do not own a vehicle, or are unable to afford the costs associated with personal vehicle ownership. The lack of accessible public transportation, including features like ramps or lifts for individuals with disabilities, further exacerbates the challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is sporadic and coverage can be inconsistent, especially in rural areas like Stevensville. The availability of these services often depends on driver availability and demand, which can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be risky, potentially leading to missed appointments or delays in accessing necessary care.

Medical transport services, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available but are typically reserved for specific medical needs. Ambulance services are primarily for emergency situations, while NEMT services cater to individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. The availability and cost of these services can vary, and they may not be readily accessible for routine check-ups or preventative care.

The overall health score for residents of Stevensville, considering healthcare access, is negatively impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while not excessively long, can be a burden for some residents. The lack of alternative transportation options creates a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations, those without vehicles, and those who cannot afford the costs associated with personal vehicle ownership.

The challenges in healthcare access are further amplified by the rural nature of the area, which can lead to longer travel times for specialty care or advanced medical procedures. This can be particularly concerning for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring specialized medical attention. The absence of readily available transportation options can also contribute to healthcare disparities, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to preventative care, and poorer health outcomes.

Moving to Stevensville requires careful consideration of these transportation and healthcare access factors. Prospective residents should assess their individual transportation needs, considering their physical abilities, financial resources, and healthcare requirements. Individuals with mobility limitations or those without reliable transportation should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing healthcare facilities in the surrounding area.

The lack of robust public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles highlight the importance of proactive planning. Residents should establish a reliable transportation plan, including identifying alternative transportation options in case of vehicle breakdowns or other unforeseen circumstances. This might involve developing relationships with neighbors, family members, or friends who can provide transportation assistance.

Furthermore, residents should be aware of the availability of medical transport services and understand the eligibility requirements and associated costs. They should also research the availability of telehealth services, which can provide remote access to healthcare professionals and reduce the need for in-person visits.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of Stevensville, Pennsylvania, is influenced by the challenges associated with healthcare access, particularly the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of a comprehensive public transit system, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to accessing healthcare. Prospective residents should carefully consider these factors when evaluating the suitability of Stevensville as a place to live, prioritizing the development of a reliable transportation plan and understanding the available healthcare resources in the region. Proactive planning and awareness of available resources are crucial to ensuring that residents can access the healthcare they need to maintain their overall health and well-being.