15938, Lilly, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 15938, Lilly, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.45 percent of residents in 15938 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Altoona with a distance of 13.70 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15938

The journey to effective arthritis management often begins with a simple step: accessing healthcare. For residents of ZIP Code 15938, a rural area surrounding Lilly, Pennsylvania, the “Arthritis Score” reflects the ease or difficulty of this journey. This score considers the available transportation options, the proximity of healthcare providers, and the accessibility features catering to individuals with mobility limitations. The goal is to paint a realistic picture, helping potential residents understand the landscape of healthcare access.

The primary challenge in 15938 is the limited availability of transportation. Public transit, a cornerstone of healthcare access in many urban areas, is severely restricted. The absence of a robust public transit system necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation. This reliance significantly impacts the Arthritis Score, particularly for individuals experiencing pain and reduced mobility.

Driving is the most common mode of transportation. Residents typically rely on the winding network of local roads and highways to reach healthcare facilities. The primary arteries are Route 219, a major north-south thoroughfare, and Route 53, which provides east-west access. These routes, while offering direct access to larger towns and cities, can be challenging during inclement weather, potentially delaying or complicating travel.

The drive to the nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities, including hospitals and specialized clinics, can be time-consuming. For instance, a trip to UPMC Altoona, a regional medical center offering rheumatology services, involves a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. The journey often involves navigating a combination of Route 53 and Route 22, adding to the overall travel time.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians are located in nearby towns like Ebensburg and Carrolltown. These options offer more convenient access for routine appointments and basic care. However, specialized services like rheumatology consultations may still require travel to larger medical centers. The Arthritis Score reflects this disparity, acknowledging the convenience of local options while recognizing the need for longer journeys to access specialized care.

Public transportation options in 15938 are extremely limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides some bus service within the county, but its routes and schedules are not designed to serve the specific needs of residents in Lilly or the surrounding rural areas. The CCTA does not have routes that directly serve Lilly. Therefore, individuals relying on public transit for healthcare access face significant challenges.

The lack of public transit directly impacts the Arthritis Score. For individuals unable to drive or without access to a personal vehicle, the journey to healthcare becomes significantly more difficult. This barrier can lead to delayed treatment, missed appointments, and a decline in overall health outcomes. The absence of ADA-compliant features on available public transit exacerbates the issue.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region. However, their availability and reliability can vary, especially in rural areas like 15938. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for individuals with limited incomes. The Arthritis Score considers these factors, acknowledging the potential of ride-sharing while recognizing its limitations.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option for individuals with mobility limitations. Companies like Senior Life and other medical transport providers offer door-to-door service, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit. However, medical transportation can be expensive and may require advance booking.

The Arthritis Score takes into account the availability and cost of medical transportation services. The score considers the convenience of these services while acknowledging the financial burden they can place on individuals. Furthermore, the score assesses the availability of these services, as demand may exceed supply in certain situations.

Healthcare access in 15938 is further influenced by the location of healthcare providers. The proximity of clinics and hospitals to Lilly, as well as the availability of specialized services, directly impacts the Arthritis Score. The score considers the travel time to these facilities, the availability of appointments, and the range of services offered.

For individuals considering moving to Lilly, the Arthritis Score provides a valuable assessment of healthcare access. Potential residents should carefully consider the transportation options, the proximity of healthcare providers, and the accessibility features available. This information can help them make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The Arthritis Score also reflects the availability of support services, such as home healthcare and physical therapy. These services can play a crucial role in managing arthritis and improving quality of life. The score considers the availability of these services in 15938 and the ease with which individuals can access them.

Furthermore, the Arthritis Score considers the availability of resources for individuals with arthritis, such as support groups and educational programs. These resources can provide valuable information, emotional support, and a sense of community. The score assesses the availability of these resources in the local area.

In conclusion, the Arthritis Score for 15938 reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in a rural setting. The score acknowledges the limited transportation options, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the need for careful planning. By considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure that they receive the care they deserve. The score highlights the importance of considering transportation when assessing healthcare access, particularly for individuals with arthritis. The journey to healthcare in 15938 requires careful consideration of available transportation, healthcare access, and the potential impact of moving to Lilly.