15337, Graysville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15337, Graysville, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.82 percent of residents in 15337 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington Health System Greene with a distance of 11.02 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15337 (Graysville, PA)

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Graysville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15337) presents a multifaceted challenge. This analysis assesses the overall health score, considering transportation accessibility, the cornerstone of healthcare access. The ability to reach medical facilities quickly and reliably significantly impacts health outcomes, particularly for a rural community like Graysville, where resources are often geographically dispersed. Understanding the commute to healthcare is crucial for residents and those considering moving to this area.

Graysville’s location, nestled in Greene County, Pennsylvania, dictates that residents rely heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Pennsylvania Route 21 (PA-21), a vital east-west thoroughfare, and PA-218, which runs north-south. These roads, while offering direct routes, are often subject to rural driving conditions, including winding roads, varying speed limits, and potential delays due to weather or agricultural traffic. The absence of major highways within the immediate vicinity necessitates longer travel times compared to more urban areas.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. The closest hospital, Waynesburg Hospital, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic and the specific location within Graysville. This journey primarily involves PA-21. Other specialized medical services, such as those offered by UPMC facilities in nearby Washington or Morgantown, WV, necessitate a longer commute, potentially exceeding an hour. These trips involve navigating a combination of PA-21, Interstate 79 (I-79), and US Route 19.

Public transportation options are limited in Graysville. Greene County operates a public transit system, but service frequency and route coverage are restricted. The primary route serving the area is likely to be a demand-response service, requiring advance booking. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is available on these vehicles, but the extended travel times and the need for pre-planning pose significant barriers for individuals with urgent medical needs or those who lack reliable transportation. The lack of frequent, fixed-route public transportation underscores the transportation challenges faced by Graysville residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability are not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden for individuals with limited incomes. Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available, but these are typically reserved for specific medical needs and are often subject to insurance coverage limitations.

Healthcare access extends beyond the physical commute. The availability of telehealth services can bridge the gap, especially for routine appointments or follow-up care. However, the effectiveness of telehealth hinges on reliable internet connectivity, which may be a challenge in some parts of rural Greene County. The overall health score is therefore influenced not only by the distance to healthcare facilities but also by the availability of alternative modes of transportation, the efficiency of public transit, and the potential of telehealth to mitigate the challenges of geographical isolation.

The transportation infrastructure in Graysville directly impacts the healthcare experience. The condition of the roads, the availability of public transit, and the accessibility of ride-sharing services all contribute to the overall health score. Residents must consider these factors when planning medical appointments, seeking emergency care, or managing chronic health conditions. The time spent traveling to and from healthcare facilities can impact productivity, increase stress levels, and potentially delay access to necessary medical attention.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Graysville, Pennsylvania, is moderate, with significant challenges presented by the rural setting and limited transportation options. While the drive times to Waynesburg Hospital are relatively manageable, access to specialized care and the reliance on personal vehicles for transportation present obstacles. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation.

For individuals considering moving to Graysville, it is essential to carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. The availability of reliable transportation, whether through personal vehicles, family support, or alternative services, is paramount to ensuring timely access to medical care.

The healthcare landscape in Graysville is evolving, with efforts to improve healthcare access through telehealth and community outreach programs. However, the fundamental challenge of transportation remains a significant factor influencing the overall health score. The community's ability to address these transportation barriers will be crucial in improving healthcare outcomes and ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the medical services they need. The overall health score in Graysville is inextricably linked to the efficiency, affordability, and reliability of transportation options available to its residents.