15482, Star Junction, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15482, Star Junction, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

18.70 percent of residents in 15482 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Connellsville with a distance of 9.58 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15482

The pursuit of well-being in Star Junction, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15482), necessitates a keen understanding of healthcare access. This assessment evaluates the ease with which residents can reach medical services, considering various transportation options. The overall health score reflects the potential impact of commute times and available resources on the community's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. A low score indicates significant barriers, while a high score suggests relatively seamless access.

The primary challenge for residents of Star Junction is its rural setting. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in Uniontown, approximately 15 miles away, and Greensburg, about 40 miles distant. These distances translate to considerable travel times, particularly for those without personal vehicles. The availability of transportation options, including public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, is crucial in mitigating this geographic disadvantage.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

The primary route to Uniontown is via Pennsylvania Route 51, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours. Expect a drive time of roughly 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The journey to Greensburg involves a longer drive, primarily on US Route 119 North and then the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76). This trip typically takes 45 minutes to an hour and 15 minutes, potentially longer during rush hour or adverse weather.

The condition of these roadways is generally adequate, but potholes and uneven surfaces can be a concern, especially during winter. The lack of sidewalks and bike lanes along many stretches of these roads limits options for non-motorized transportation, further restricting access for those without vehicles. The winding nature of some of the roads, particularly on Route 51, can also contribute to longer travel times and potentially increase the risk of accidents.

**Public Transit:**

Public transportation options in Star Junction are extremely limited. The Fayette Area Coordinated Transportation (FACT) provides some services within Fayette County, but their routes and schedules are often infrequent and may not directly serve Star Junction. The availability of FACT buses to Uniontown is a possibility, but it requires careful planning and may involve multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time.

Information regarding specific routes and schedules can be found on the FACT website or by contacting their customer service. However, residents should be aware that the frequency of service, especially to medical facilities, may be insufficient for urgent needs. Furthermore, the availability of wheelchair accessibility (ADA features) on FACT buses should be verified in advance to ensure suitability for individuals with mobility impairments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Uniontown area, but their presence in Star Junction itself is less consistent. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Booking a ride may require advance planning and could potentially involve longer wait times.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for those requiring specialized assistance. Ambulance services are dispatched through 911 and provide emergency medical care. NEMT services, such as those offered by companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) or LogistiCare, provide transportation for non-emergency medical appointments. These services typically require pre-booking and may have eligibility requirements.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The distance to healthcare facilities, coupled with the limited transportation options, presents a significant challenge for residents of Star Junction. Individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, those with disabilities, and those with low incomes, face the greatest barriers to accessing care. This can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially impacting their overall health outcomes.

Furthermore, the long commute times can be stressful and time-consuming, adding to the burden of seeking medical care. The lack of readily available transportation can also exacerbate existing health disparities, as it disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. The availability of urgent care facilities and walk-in clinics in the immediate vicinity of Star Junction would greatly improve healthcare access.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

To improve the overall health score for Star Junction, several interventions are needed. Increasing the frequency and accessibility of public transportation, particularly to medical facilities in Uniontown and Greensburg, is paramount. This could involve extending existing FACT routes or establishing dedicated shuttle services.

Encouraging the availability of ride-sharing services and promoting the use of medical transport options can also help bridge the transportation gap. Educating residents about available resources and providing assistance with booking transportation can further improve access.

Finally, exploring the feasibility of establishing telehealth services or mobile medical clinics within Star Junction could bring healthcare closer to residents, reducing the need for long commutes. Addressing these issues is critical for fostering a healthier community and ensuring that all residents of Star Junction have equitable access to the healthcare they need. The overall health score for transportation and healthcare access in 15482 is considered low, with the need for improvement.