16361, Tylersburg, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 16361, Tylersburg, Pennsylvania is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 16361 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 13.25 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tylersburg (ZIP Code 16361)

Considering a move to Tylersburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16361)? For individuals managing arthritis, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This "Arthritis Score" delves into the transportation landscape, crucial for attending appointments, accessing medications, and maintaining overall well-being. We’ll explore the practicalities of getting around, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options. Your ability to navigate these systems directly impacts your healthcare access and quality of life.

Tylersburg, a small community nestled in Clarion County, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The nearest major healthcare facilities are located in Clarion, Oil City, and Franklin, requiring travel along specific roadways.

Driving to Clarion Hospital, approximately 20 miles away, typically involves a 30- to 45-minute drive, primarily via **Pennsylvania Route 66 (PA-66)** and then **Interstate 80 (I-80)**. Traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, can extend this commute, adding to the physical strain for individuals with arthritis. The roads are generally well-maintained, but winter weather can pose significant challenges, requiring careful planning and potentially delaying appointments.

Oil City, home to UPMC Northwest, is roughly 25 miles from Tylersburg. The most direct route involves traveling on **PA-36** and then **PA-8**. This drive usually takes around 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic. The roads are generally well-maintained, but the winding nature of PA-36 can be challenging for some drivers.

Franklin, the location of UPMC Northwest's outpatient services, is about 30 miles away. The most common route is to travel on **PA-36** and then **US-62**. This trip can take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Public transportation options in Tylersburg are limited. The Clarion County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides demand-response service, meaning you must schedule rides in advance. This service is a vital lifeline for those unable to drive. However, availability can be restricted, particularly during peak hours or for same-day appointments. The CCTA offers ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. Scheduling and coordination are essential.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are sporadically available in the Tylersburg area. Availability is not guaranteed, and wait times can be extended. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. Relying solely on ride-sharing for healthcare access is generally not advisable.

Medical transport services are available, but their availability and cost vary. Companies like MedStar and CareRide offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, they are generally more expensive than other transportation options and require advance booking.

The "Arthritis Score" for Tylersburg, considering these factors, is moderately challenging. While the area offers some healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present hurdles. The availability of ride-sharing is unreliable, and medical transport services come with added costs.

For individuals with arthritis, the ability to independently drive is a crucial factor. The longer drive times to healthcare facilities can exacerbate pain and fatigue. The winding roads and potential for adverse weather conditions add to the complexity.

The CCTA, with its ADA-accessible vehicles, is a valuable resource, but its demand-response nature requires careful planning. Booking appointments and arranging transportation in advance is essential.

The sporadic availability of ride-sharing services offers a limited backup option. However, the cost and unreliability make it unsuitable for regular healthcare access.

Medical transport services provide a more reliable, albeit expensive, solution. The door-to-door assistance and specialized vehicles can significantly ease the burden of travel for individuals with arthritis.

When moving to Tylersburg, individuals with arthritis should prioritize these considerations. Assess your ability to drive comfortably and safely. Investigate the CCTA's services and understand the scheduling process. Research the availability and cost of medical transport options.

Consider the location of your preferred healthcare providers. Choosing a physician or specialist closer to Tylersburg can minimize drive times and reduce travel-related strain.

Living in Tylersburg, while offering a peaceful environment, necessitates proactive planning for healthcare access. The limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles demand careful consideration.

The "Arthritis Score" suggests that while healthcare is accessible, the transportation landscape presents challenges. Planning and preparation are key to ensuring consistent and comfortable access to medical care.

This assessment is not a definitive medical evaluation. It serves as a guide to understanding the transportation landscape for healthcare access in Tylersburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16361). Individual needs and circumstances vary. Consulting with your healthcare provider and conducting a thorough assessment of your transportation needs is essential before making any decisions about moving to the area.

The decision to move to Tylersburg should be made with a full understanding of the transportation challenges and a proactive plan for healthcare access. With careful planning and resourcefulness, individuals with arthritis can successfully navigate the transportation landscape and maintain their health and well-being in this charming community.