15425, Connellsville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15425, Connellsville, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.99 percent of residents in 15425 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Connellsville with a distance of 0.41 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15425

Understanding the ease of **healthcare access** is paramount when considering a move, especially in a rural area like Connellsville, Pennsylvania, ZIP Code 15425. This assessment delves into the **transportation** landscape, evaluating the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical attention. We'll analyze drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the overall health score for this community.

The primary artery for **transportation** in and out of Connellsville is the historic Route 119, a two-lane highway snaking through the Youghiogheny River Valley. This road, while scenic, is often congested, particularly during peak hours. Residents heading to larger medical centers in Uniontown or Greensburg will likely utilize Route 119 to connect with the major east-west thoroughfare, the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76).

Navigating the Turnpike, while offering a faster route, comes with its own set of considerations. Tolls add to the cost, and traffic incidents can cause significant delays. Furthermore, the distance to major hospitals like UPMC Presbyterian in Pittsburgh, a frequent destination for specialized care, is approximately 60 miles, translating to a drive of at least 1.5 hours, even in optimal conditions. This travel time alone can be a significant barrier to timely **healthcare access**.

Beyond the Turnpike, Route 31, another vital road, provides access to the Laurel Highlands and connections to Route 711, offering alternative routes to destinations east and west. However, these roads are often winding and subject to weather-related hazards, especially during winter months, potentially impacting **healthcare access** during emergencies.

Public **transportation** options in Connellsville are limited. The Westmoreland Transit Authority (WTA) provides bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, particularly on weekends and evenings. Route 2, for example, offers a limited service, primarily focusing on connections to Greensburg. ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring some level of accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and coverage restrict its usefulness for medical appointments, especially for those requiring specialized care outside of the immediate Connellsville area. The lack of robust public transit presents a significant challenge for residents without personal vehicles, severely limiting their ability to access essential **healthcare access**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Connellsville area, but their reliability and availability are variable. While they offer a convenient option, particularly for those without access to a car, surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand can make them an expensive option. Furthermore, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can be unpredictable, potentially delaying or even preventing **healthcare access**. This presents a challenge for anyone **moving to Connellsville** who relies on alternative **transportation** options.

Medical transport services, including ambulances and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are crucial for those unable to drive themselves to appointments. Connellsville is served by several ambulance services, ensuring emergency medical care is readily available. However, the availability of NEMT services, which provide **transportation** for non-emergency medical appointments, is more limited. Companies like MedRide or First Medical Transport may operate in the area, but their coverage and availability should be confirmed. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 15425 is moderate, with significant challenges. While emergency services are generally accessible, the limited public **transportation**, variable ride-sharing availability, and the distance to major medical centers create barriers. For those considering **moving to Connellsville**, careful consideration of **transportation** needs and reliance on personal vehicles is crucial. Proximity to medical facilities within Connellsville is a plus, but residents will need to factor in potential travel times and costs for specialized care.

The dependence on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit highlight the need for community initiatives to improve **healthcare access**. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized rides for medical appointments, expanding public transit routes and schedules, and promoting the use of telehealth services are all potential strategies. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as widening roads and improving traffic flow, could also help reduce travel times and improve **healthcare access**.

Ultimately, improving the overall health score in ZIP Code 15425 requires a multi-faceted approach. Addressing the **transportation** challenges, promoting community-based solutions, and fostering collaboration between healthcare providers and **transportation** services are essential steps toward ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the medical care they need. For individuals considering **moving to Connellsville**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and the availability of healthcare services is paramount to ensuring their well-being.