15314, Bentleyville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15314, Bentleyville, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.34 percent of residents in 15314 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Mon Valley with a distance of 6.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Bentleyville (ZIP Code 15314)

Bentleyville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Washington County, offers a charming, small-town atmosphere. However, the idyllic setting presents a unique set of challenges when it comes to accessing healthcare. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 15314, focusing on the critical aspect of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. The score considers various factors, from drive times to public transit availability and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals considering moving to Bentleyville, or for current residents seeking to optimize their health management strategies.

The Overall Health Score is a composite metric, incorporating elements of geographic accessibility, mode of transportation, and service availability. It is not a definitive measure of health outcomes, but rather a reflection of the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical care. The score is presented on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 representing optimal healthcare access and 1 representing severely limited access.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

For many Bentleyville residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. The efficiency and convenience of driving are heavily influenced by the road network. From Bentleyville, the most direct routes to larger healthcare hubs often involve navigating a network of state routes and highways.

The most common route to Washington Hospital, a significant regional healthcare provider, involves utilizing **Pennsylvania Route 917** and then connecting to **Interstate 70 East**. The drive typically covers approximately 15 miles and can take between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Rush hour, particularly during weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend this commute.

Another critical route involves traveling to Monongahela Valley Hospital, located in nearby Monongahela. This trip typically involves taking **Pennsylvania Route 88** and then **Interstate 70 West**, covering about 20 miles. The drive time can vary from 30 to 45 minutes, influenced by traffic and the specific location within Bentleyville.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel to Pittsburgh, a major medical center. This journey typically involves using **Interstate 70 West** to connect with **Interstate 79 North** or **Interstate 376 East**. The distance can range from 30 to 40 miles, resulting in a travel time of 45 minutes to over an hour, especially during peak traffic hours. The condition of the roads, including potential construction zones, further impacts these travel times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Bentleyville are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The primary provider of public transit in Washington County is the **Washington County Transportation Authority (WCTA)**. The WCTA offers bus routes that serve various communities, but their coverage in Bentleyville is sparse.

The availability of WCTA routes in 15314 is extremely limited, and direct routes to major healthcare facilities are rare. Residents may need to transfer buses, adding significant travel time and complexity to their journey. The lack of frequent service and the extended travel times make public transit a less viable option for many seeking timely medical care.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for those with disabilities. The WCTA is mandated to provide accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible buses. However, the limited route coverage and potential for long wait times can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. The overall impact of public transit on the Overall Health Score is notably negative, reflecting its limited availability and the challenges it presents for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. However, the availability of these services in Bentleyville can be inconsistent. Ride-sharing availability is dependent on driver presence and demand, which can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a more specialized solution. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including companies that cater to non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require advance booking and may involve associated costs. The availability of these services, however, can be a crucial factor for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing assistance.

The presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services contributes positively to the Overall Health Score, offering alternative transportation options. However, the limitations in availability and associated costs must be considered.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Bentleyville**

Considering the factors discussed, the Overall Health Score for residents of ZIP code 15314 is **5 out of 10**. This score reflects the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The score indicates that healthcare access in Bentleyville presents some challenges, particularly for those without personal transportation or who require specialized medical care located further afield.

Individuals considering moving to Bentleyville should carefully assess their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Those who rely on public transit or have limited mobility should investigate the availability of medical transport services and the potential for extended travel times. The location of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals, should be a key factor in the decision-making process.

The availability of telehealth services is another factor to consider. Telehealth can provide access to medical consultations and follow-up care without requiring travel. The quality of internet connectivity in Bentleyville can impact the feasibility of telehealth options.

**Conclusion**

Accessing healthcare in Bentleyville requires careful planning and an awareness of the available transportation options. While the town offers a desirable lifestyle, the limitations in transportation necessitate proactive strategies for managing healthcare needs. Residents should familiarize themselves with the road network, the potential for traffic delays, and the availability of alternative transportation services. By understanding these factors, residents can proactively optimize their healthcare access and maintain their overall health and well-being. The overall health score serves as a reminder that while the community offers a peaceful setting, careful consideration must be given to the realities of healthcare access and transportation.