15474, Point Marion, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15474, Point Marion, Pennsylvania is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.14 percent of residents in 15474 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Uniontown Hospital with a distance of 13.89 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Point Marion (ZIP Code 15474)

Point Marion, Pennsylvania, nestled along the Monongahela River, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering its residents' overall health. A critical factor influencing health outcomes is **healthcare access**, inextricably linked to the available **transportation** options. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare facilities from ZIP Code 15474, considering various modes of travel, their associated time commitments, and accessibility features. This information is especially pertinent for individuals and families **moving to Point Marion**, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The geographical isolation of Point Marion, while contributing to its charm, significantly impacts healthcare access. The nearest major medical centers are located in Uniontown, Morgantown (West Virginia), and Waynesburg. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching these facilities, considering both the physical distance and the available transportation infrastructure. The score will be a composite of several factors: drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and the presence of medical transport services.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Point Marion. The primary routes involve navigating the winding roads of southwestern Pennsylvania. To reach Uniontown, residents typically utilize **Pennsylvania Route 166** to connect with **U.S. Route 119** and then **U.S. Route 40**. The drive is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The roads, while generally well-maintained, can be subject to delays due to seasonal conditions, particularly during winter months.

To access healthcare in Morgantown, West Virginia, the journey involves crossing state lines. The primary route is **Pennsylvania Route 166** to **West Virginia Route 7**. This route, approximately 30-45 minutes, offers a more direct connection to the city. However, the mountainous terrain can make driving challenging, especially during inclement weather. The drive to Waynesburg involves utilizing **Pennsylvania Route 166** to connect with **Pennsylvania Route 88**. The drive, approximately 40-50 minutes, is the furthest of the three primary destinations.

Public transportation options are limited in Point Marion, significantly impacting the "Overall Health Score." The local bus service, operated by the **Fayette County Transportation Authority (FCTA)**, offers some routes that connect Point Marion to Uniontown. However, these routes are infrequent, with limited service on weekends and evenings. The specific route numbers and schedules are subject to change, but residents should check the FCTA website for the most up-to-date information. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. The FCTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the limited frequency of service and the longer travel times compared to driving diminish the overall score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Point Marion, but their reliability and availability are often variable. The presence of these services can be a boon for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. However, the availability of drivers can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability negatively impacts the "Overall Health Score" by creating uncertainty in healthcare access.

Medical transport services play a vital role in bridging the gap in healthcare access, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, offering services such as ambulance transport and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services are essential for patients who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transportation. The availability of these services improves the "Overall Health Score" by providing a safety net for those with significant transportation challenges. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some residents, affecting their ability to access care.

The "Overall Health Score" also considers the availability of healthcare facilities within Point Marion itself. While the town has limited medical facilities, the presence of a primary care physician's office and a pharmacy provides some level of local healthcare access. This reduces the need for frequent travel to distant medical centers for routine care. However, the availability of specialized medical services, such as cardiology, oncology, and specialized surgery, is limited. Residents often need to travel to larger cities like Uniontown or Morgantown for these services, further impacting the "Overall Health Score."

The overall "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Point Marion, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15474) is moderate. The primary mode of transportation, driving, offers relatively quick access to healthcare facilities in Uniontown and Morgantown. However, the reliance on personal vehicles can be a challenge for those without cars or who are unable to drive. Public transportation is limited, and ride-sharing services have variable availability. Medical transport services provide a crucial safety net, but their cost can be a barrier. The presence of local healthcare facilities mitigates some of the challenges.

For individuals and families **moving to Point Marion**, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Planning for healthcare access should be an integral part of their relocation strategy. This includes assessing their transportation needs, researching local healthcare providers, and understanding the availability of medical transport services. The "Overall Health Score" provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare accessibility of Point Marion, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The score will improve with advancements in public transportation, increased ride-sharing availability, and the expansion of local healthcare services.