15331, Ellsworth, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15331, Ellsworth, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.54 percent of residents in 15331 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Mon Valley with a distance of 7.49 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Ellsworth, PA (ZIP Code 15331)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access essential services, and chief among these is healthcare. For residents of Ellsworth, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15331), the journey to receive medical attention is a complex equation, influenced by factors like distance, available transportation, and the presence of accessible options. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, analyzing the multifaceted landscape of healthcare access within and surrounding Ellsworth, ultimately informing anyone considering **moving to Ellsworth**.

The score considers various aspects, including the proximity of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of **transportation** options, and the availability of specialized services. We will delve into the realities of driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by Ellsworth residents in their pursuit of well-being.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For many Ellsworth residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of **transportation** for healthcare appointments. The geographical layout necessitates reliance on roadways, with the closest hospitals and clinics situated outside the immediate confines of the borough. A significant factor in the "Overall Health Score" is the drive time to these facilities.

The most direct route to Washington Hospital, a primary healthcare provider, typically involves utilizing **PA-40 West** and then **I-70 West**. During periods of low traffic, this journey can be completed in approximately 15-20 minutes. However, rush hour, accidents, or inclement weather can significantly extend this travel time, potentially doubling it. This variability introduces an element of unpredictability that impacts the overall accessibility of healthcare.

Other healthcare options, such as those in the city of Pittsburgh, are considerably further. Reaching UPMC Presbyterian or UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital necessitates traveling on **I-70 West** to **I-79 North**, a journey that can easily exceed an hour, even in favorable traffic conditions. This extended travel time presents a substantial barrier, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public **transportation** options in Ellsworth are limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The primary provider is the Washington County Transportation Authority (WCTA), which operates a network of bus routes throughout the county. However, the coverage in Ellsworth is sparse, and the frequency of service is often limited.

Specifically, Route 31, which services the area, provides a connection to Washington, PA, where transfers to other routes are possible. While this route offers a degree of accessibility, the schedules are often infrequent, with limited evening and weekend service. This severely restricts access to healthcare appointments outside of standard business hours.

Furthermore, the WCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service remain a significant obstacle for many residents, particularly those with mobility challenges who may rely on public transit for their healthcare needs.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Ellsworth area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by companies like MedExpress or local ambulance services, offer specialized **transportation** for individuals with medical needs. These services typically cater to patients requiring stretcher transport or assistance with mobility. While these services provide a critical lifeline for some, they can be costly and may require pre-booking, adding another layer of complexity to accessing healthcare.

**Specialized Services and Healthcare Access**

The availability of specialized medical services within Ellsworth and its immediate vicinity is another crucial factor in the "Overall Health Score." The borough itself does not have a hospital or a wide range of specialized clinics. This means residents often need to travel to Washington, PA, or even Pittsburgh for specialist appointments.

This reliance on external facilities places a burden on residents, requiring them to navigate longer travel times and potentially incur higher **transportation** costs. The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and mental health, is a critical aspect of overall healthcare access, and the distance to these services significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score."

**Overall Health Score: Assessment and Recommendations**

Considering all the factors, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Ellsworth, PA (ZIP code 15331) is moderately concerning. While driving provides the most direct route to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays can hinder access. Public **transportation** options are limited, and ride-sharing services may not always be readily available. The need to travel to Washington or Pittsburgh for specialized services further complicates the situation.

For individuals **moving to Ellsworth**, it is essential to consider the implications of this healthcare access landscape. Those without personal vehicles may face significant challenges in attending appointments. Those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations should carefully assess the availability of medical transport services and plan accordingly.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Advocate for increased public transit:** Lobbying for expanded WCTA route coverage and more frequent service, particularly during evenings and weekends, would significantly improve healthcare access for residents.
* **Promote ride-sharing partnerships:** Exploring partnerships between local healthcare providers and ride-sharing services could help to reduce **transportation** costs and improve accessibility.
* **Support telehealth initiatives:** Encouraging the adoption of telehealth services could reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for follow-up care and consultations.
* **Encourage local healthcare providers:** Attracting or supporting the establishment of primary care clinics or satellite offices of specialist providers within Ellsworth would significantly enhance healthcare access for residents.

By addressing these challenges and implementing the recommendations, the community can work towards improving the "Overall Health Score" and ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need. This will make Ellsworth a more desirable place to live and a healthier community for everyone.