15352, New Freeport, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15352, New Freeport, Pennsylvania is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

20.66 percent of residents in 15352 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington Health System Greene with a distance of 15.05 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15352 (New Freeport, PA)**

The picturesque, rural landscape of New Freeport, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15352), offers a tranquil lifestyle, but assessing its overall health score necessitates a deep dive into **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This analysis considers the challenges residents face in reaching essential medical services, factoring in distance, mode of travel, and available resources. While the community exudes charm, its remote location presents significant hurdles, especially for those needing regular medical attention.

The most significant factor impacting the health score is the limited availability of healthcare facilities within the immediate vicinity. Residents of New Freeport must often travel considerable distances to access physicians, specialists, hospitals, and urgent care centers. This geographical isolation underscores the importance of efficient and reliable **transportation** options.

The primary mode of transport for most residents is personal vehicles. The drive to healthcare appointments often involves navigating winding rural roads and state highways. Route 21, a major artery, provides access to Waynesburg, the county seat, where Greene County Memorial Hospital and several medical practices are located. However, the drive can be time-consuming, particularly during inclement weather or peak traffic hours.

Further afield, access to more specialized care requires traveling on Interstate 79, a major north-south corridor. This route provides access to Pittsburgh, approximately 60 miles north, where a wide array of hospitals and medical centers, including UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside, are situated. The drive, however, can take over an hour, making it a significant commitment for routine appointments or emergency situations.

Public **transportation** options in New Freeport are extremely limited. Greene County operates a public transit system, but its routes and schedules are infrequent, primarily designed to serve the needs of elderly and disabled residents. Service to New Freeport is available, but it requires advance booking and may involve multiple transfers, making it impractical for many medical appointments. The system's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a crucial consideration, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability can vary depending on driver availability, especially in remote areas like New Freeport. The cost of these services can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by private companies, provide a more specialized option for individuals with disabilities or those needing assistance. These services often offer door-to-door transport and may be covered by insurance, but availability and cost remain key considerations.

For residents considering **moving to New Freeport**, understanding the **healthcare access** landscape is crucial. The lack of immediate access to medical care necessitates careful planning and consideration of **transportation** needs. Individuals with chronic conditions, mobility limitations, or those requiring frequent medical attention must factor in the time, cost, and potential stress associated with traveling to appointments.

The health score is further influenced by the availability of preventative care services. Regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations are vital for maintaining overall health. However, the distance to healthcare facilities can deter residents from seeking these services, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.

The availability of urgent care facilities is another critical factor. In the event of a sudden illness or injury, immediate access to medical attention is essential. The drive time to the nearest urgent care center can be a significant concern for residents of New Freeport, particularly during evenings and weekends.

The overall health score for New Freeport is therefore negatively impacted by the geographical challenges. While the community offers a peaceful environment, its remoteness poses significant barriers to accessing timely and convenient medical care. Residents must proactively plan for their healthcare needs, considering the available **transportation** options and the potential costs associated with travel.

The community's health score could be improved through several initiatives. Encouraging the development of telehealth services, such as virtual doctor's appointments, could reduce the need for travel. Supporting the expansion of public **transportation** options, including more frequent routes and improved ADA accessibility, would benefit residents. Promoting the availability of medical **transportation** services and providing financial assistance to those in need would also be beneficial.

Furthermore, attracting healthcare providers to establish practices in or near New Freeport would significantly improve **healthcare access** and enhance the overall health score. This could involve incentives for physicians and other healthcare professionals to locate in the area.

Ultimately, the overall health score for New Freeport reflects the complex interplay between geography, **transportation**, and **healthcare access**. While the community's natural beauty is undeniable, the challenges associated with reaching medical services must be carefully considered by current and prospective residents. The ongoing efforts to improve **transportation** infrastructure, expand healthcare services, and promote preventative care will be essential in enhancing the community's overall health and well-being.