17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania Type 1 Diabetes Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Type 1 Diabetes Score in 17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.42 percent of residents in 17760 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bucktail Medical Center with a distance of 2.29 miles from the area.

## Type 1 Diabetes Score: Navigating Healthcare in North Bend, PA (ZIP Code 17760)

Considering a move to North Bend, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17760) and living with Type 1 Diabetes? This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options and healthcare access, crucial factors for managing this chronic condition. We’ll explore the realities of getting to appointments, picking up medications, and accessing emergency care, all vital components of successful diabetes management. This score aims to give you a realistic picture, empowering you to make an informed decision.

North Bend, nestled within the mountainous terrain of Clinton County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding transportation and healthcare. The area’s remoteness necessitates careful consideration of how you’ll navigate the landscape to maintain optimal health. The availability of reliable transportation is inextricably linked to your ability to manage Type 1 Diabetes effectively.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions:**

The primary route in and out of North Bend is **PA-144**, a scenic but winding two-lane highway. Driving to the nearest major healthcare facilities requires planning. The closest hospital with a comprehensive endocrinology department is UPMC Williamsport, approximately 60 miles away. Expect a drive time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes, assuming favorable weather conditions. This journey typically involves navigating **PA-144** south to **US-220** and then **I-180** east.

Another option is Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital, roughly 40 miles distant. The drive, predominantly on **PA-44** and **US-220**, takes about 1 hour. This route offers a slightly shorter journey, but road conditions can vary depending on the season. During winter, snow and ice can significantly impact travel times and safety on both routes.

The condition of these roads, particularly **PA-144**, should be a major consideration. Maintenance can be infrequent, and the mountainous terrain can make driving challenging, especially during inclement weather. Always check road conditions before embarking on any journey, especially during the winter months.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options:**

Public transportation options in North Bend are extremely limited. The area is not served by a comprehensive public transit system. This significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals who do not drive or cannot drive due to medical reasons. Relying on public transit for regular appointments and emergency situations would be exceedingly difficult.

There is no scheduled bus service directly serving North Bend. The nearest bus stops might be in communities further south along **US-220**, but these routes are infrequent and may not connect directly to healthcare facilities.

**ADA Accessibility:**

Given the lack of robust public transit, ADA-accessible transportation options are also severely limited. Individuals with mobility challenges would face significant hurdles in accessing healthcare without personal or private transportation. The absence of accessible public transit underscores the importance of planning for alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a limited presence in rural areas like North Bend. Availability is not guaranteed, and wait times could be lengthy, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. Relying on ride-sharing for regular healthcare appointments is not a reliable option.

Medical transport services are available, but they are likely to be expensive and require advance booking. These services may be essential for individuals who cannot drive and lack alternative transportation options. Researching local medical transport providers and understanding their service areas and costs is vital.

**Pharmacy Access and Medication Delivery:**

Accessing prescription medications is a critical aspect of diabetes management. The nearest pharmacies are likely located in nearby towns like Renovo or Jersey Shore. Driving to these pharmacies is the most common method of obtaining medications.

Consider the feasibility of mail-order prescriptions. Many pharmacies offer mail-order services, which could be a convenient option, especially during inclement weather or when transportation is limited. However, ensure that the mail-order pharmacy accepts your insurance and can reliably deliver medications to your location.

**Emergency Services and Response Times:**

Emergency medical services are available in North Bend, but response times can be longer than in urban areas due to the distance to hospitals and the potential for challenging road conditions. Understanding the location of the nearest emergency room and the typical response times is crucial.

Familiarize yourself with the local emergency services and the procedures for contacting them. Ensure you have a plan in place for handling medical emergencies, including a list of emergency contacts and a readily accessible medical kit.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

Beyond transportation, consider the availability of endocrinologists and diabetes educators in the region. While UPMC Williamsport and Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital offer endocrinology services, appointment availability and wait times may vary. Research the qualifications and experience of local endocrinologists and diabetes educators to ensure they meet your needs.

Telehealth services can bridge the gap in healthcare access. Explore the availability of telehealth appointments with your endocrinologist or other healthcare providers. Telehealth can be a valuable tool for managing diabetes remotely, especially when transportation is challenging.

**Community Support and Resources:**

Connect with local community resources and support groups for individuals with diabetes. These groups can provide valuable information, emotional support, and practical advice on managing diabetes in a rural setting.

Investigate the availability of local health and wellness programs that focus on diabetes management. These programs can offer educational resources, support groups, and opportunities to connect with other individuals living with diabetes.

**Overall Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the assessment, the 'Type 1 Diabetes Score' for healthcare access in North Bend (ZIP Code 17760) is **low**. The limited transportation options, particularly the lack of public transit and the potential for challenging road conditions, pose significant challenges for individuals with Type 1 Diabetes.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize reliable personal transportation:** Owning a car is practically essential.
* **Plan for inclement weather:** Winter driving skills and preparedness are crucial.
* **Explore medical transport options:** Research local providers and costs.
* **Embrace telehealth:** Utilize telehealth services for appointments and consultations.
* **Establish a strong support network:** Connect with local resources and support groups.
* **Consider proximity to healthcare:** Evaluate the drive times and accessibility to healthcare facilities.

Moving to North Bend with Type 1 Diabetes requires careful planning and a proactive approach to healthcare management. While the area offers natural beauty and a close-knit community, the transportation challenges necessitate a strategic approach to ensure consistent access to healthcare and optimal diabetes management. The journey to healthcare access in North Bend demands careful consideration and preparation.