15473, Perryopolis, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15473, Perryopolis, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.47 percent of residents in 15473 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Connellsville with a distance of 10.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Perryopolis (ZIP Code 15473)

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of Perryopolis, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15473), focusing on their access to healthcare services. A critical component of this assessment is the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities, encompassing various modes and considering factors like drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing options. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Perryopolis and prioritizing their healthcare access.

The overall health score is a composite metric, acknowledging that healthcare access is not solely determined by the availability of medical professionals but is significantly impacted by the ease of reaching those professionals. The score will consider the proximity of healthcare providers, the quality of available transportation, and the presence of any accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.

Perryopolis, a borough nestled in Fayette County, presents a unique challenge regarding healthcare access due to its rural setting. The primary roads serving the area, including **Route 51**, **Route 201**, and **Interstate 70**, are vital arteries for accessing healthcare facilities. However, the distance to larger medical centers and the limitations of public transportation can pose obstacles for residents.

Drive times are a significant factor in determining the overall health score. The nearest hospitals are located in surrounding towns, such as Monongahela and Uniontown. Traveling to Monongahela Valley Hospital, typically involves a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes via Route 51 and Route 88. This drive time can fluctuate depending on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.

Accessing Uniontown Hospital usually requires a longer journey, approximately 30-45 minutes, primarily utilizing Route 51 and, potentially, Interstate 70. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further impact drive times and potentially hinder healthcare access. For residents requiring specialized care, the drive times to Pittsburgh-based hospitals, such as UPMC Presbyterian or Allegheny General Hospital, can extend to over an hour, making timely access to critical care a significant concern.

Public transportation options in Perryopolis are limited. The primary provider of public transit in the region is the Fayette Area Coordinated Transportation (FACT). FACT operates a demand-response system, meaning that riders must schedule their trips in advance. While this service provides a crucial lifeline for some residents, it is not always the most convenient or timely option for urgent healthcare needs.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles within the FACT fleet is essential for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service frequency and the need for pre-booking can present challenges. The efficiency of public transit is a crucial factor in the overall health score, and the current limitations in Perryopolis negatively impact this aspect.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Perryopolis area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in less densely populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, provide another layer of support. Several companies offer these services, including those specializing in non-emergency medical transport. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who do not have access to personal vehicles. The availability and reliability of these services are critical for improving the overall health score.

The overall health score also considers the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within a reasonable distance of Perryopolis. The presence of these facilities within the community or in neighboring towns significantly impacts the score. The density of healthcare providers, coupled with the efficiency of transportation options, directly influences the accessibility of healthcare services.

Healthcare access is a multifaceted issue. The overall health score considers the integration of all these factors. The score aims to provide a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities facing Perryopolis residents regarding healthcare access. The score considers the availability of transportation, the drive times to medical facilities, the availability of public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

For individuals considering moving to Perryopolis, understanding these factors is paramount. The overall health score provides a valuable framework for assessing the healthcare landscape and making informed decisions about their health and well-being. The score also highlights areas where improvements in transportation and healthcare infrastructure could significantly enhance the quality of life for Perryopolis residents.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Perryopolis, ZIP Code 15473, is a reflection of the challenges posed by its rural location and the limitations of its transportation infrastructure. While the community benefits from the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create barriers to healthcare access. The drive times to medical facilities, especially those providing specialized care, can be lengthy, posing a challenge for residents requiring timely medical attention.

The overall health score is not static. It can be improved through investments in public transportation, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the development of telemedicine initiatives. Furthermore, the presence of more healthcare providers in the immediate vicinity of Perryopolis would significantly enhance the score.

In conclusion, while Perryopolis offers a peaceful and close-knit community, the overall health score for healthcare access reflects the need for improvements in transportation and healthcare infrastructure. The drive times, limited public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to the final score. However, with strategic investments and community initiatives, the overall health score for Perryopolis can be improved, ensuring that all residents have access to the healthcare they need.