15520, Acosta, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15520, Acosta, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.98 percent of residents in 15520 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Somerset with a distance of 7.16 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Acosta, PA (ZIP Code 15520)

Acosta, Pennsylvania, nestled within the embrace of Somerset County, offers a tranquil, rural lifestyle. But the serenity of this small community necessitates a careful examination of its healthcare access, particularly concerning transportation. This write-up will delve into the intricacies of getting to and from medical appointments, assigning an "Overall Health Score" based on available options. The score will reflect the challenges and advantages of navigating the transportation landscape in ZIP code 15520, vital information for anyone considering moving to Acosta.

The Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in Acosta, PA (15520) is a **6.5 out of 10**. This score acknowledges the limitations imposed by Acosta's rural setting, but also recognizes the efforts made to connect residents with essential medical services. It reflects a balance between the challenges of distance and the availability of various transportation solutions.

**The Road to Wellness: Driving and Distances**

For many Acosta residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. The most direct route to the nearest hospitals and clinics often involves navigating the winding roads of Somerset County.

The closest major medical facilities are located in Somerset, approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive. This journey typically involves traveling along **Pennsylvania Route 281** and then connecting to **US Route 219**, a major artery through the region. Traffic is generally light, but winter weather can pose significant challenges, impacting drive times and road safety.

Further afield, the city of Johnstown, approximately an hour's drive, offers a wider array of specialized medical services. The route to Johnstown primarily utilizes **US Route 219** and **Pennsylvania Route 56**. While the drive is longer, it provides access to larger hospitals and specialists.

The absence of local healthcare facilities within Acosta underscores the reliance on personal vehicles. This dependence can be particularly challenging for those without access to a car, individuals with mobility limitations, or those who cannot drive due to medical conditions.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Acosta are limited, a common characteristic of rural areas. The availability of public transit directly impacts the Overall Health Score, as it provides an alternative for those unable to drive.

The **Somerset County Transportation Authority (SCTA)** offers a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service can be used to access medical appointments, but availability is often limited, and travel times can be significantly longer than driving. The SCTA provides door-to-door service, which is a significant advantage for individuals with mobility issues.

The SCTA vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating. However, the rural nature of the service means that wait times and travel times can be extended. The reliance on pre-booking can also present a challenge for those needing urgent medical attention.

The limited frequency of public transit and the need for advance scheduling contribute to a lower score in this category. While the SCTA provides a valuable service, it does not fully address the transportation needs of all Acosta residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Somerset County, but their availability in Acosta is less consistent. Ride-sharing services are most readily available in Somerset and Johnstown, requiring a ride to a central location. This can add extra time and complexity to the journey.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Several companies in the region provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services typically offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment.

While these services can be a valuable resource, they often come with a higher cost than public transit or personal vehicles. The availability of medical transportation services is a positive factor, but the cost and potential for limited availability contribute to a slightly lower score.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access**

The transportation challenges in Acosta directly impact healthcare access. The time and effort required to reach medical facilities can lead to delayed appointments, missed follow-ups, and a reluctance to seek preventative care. This can negatively affect overall health outcomes, particularly for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

The lack of local healthcare facilities further exacerbates the transportation challenges. Residents must travel to Somerset or Johnstown for even routine medical care, adding to the burden. The availability of specialists and specialized medical services is also limited within Acosta, requiring longer travel distances.

The Overall Health Score reflects these challenges, recognizing the need for improved transportation options and increased access to healthcare services within the community.

**Moving to Acosta: Considerations for Healthcare**

For those considering moving to Acosta, the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access should be a key consideration. Individuals with limited mobility, those without access to a personal vehicle, or those with chronic health conditions may find the transportation challenges particularly difficult.

Potential residents should research the availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options. They should also consider the proximity of healthcare facilities and the potential for travel time and costs.

Planning for healthcare access is essential when moving to Acosta. It may involve establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, arranging for transportation assistance, and exploring options for telehealth or home healthcare services.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

The Overall Health Score of 6.5 reflects the current state of healthcare transportation in Acosta, PA (15520). While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in transportation options pose challenges to healthcare access.

Improving the score requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes increasing the frequency and accessibility of public transit, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, and expanding access to medical transportation options. Encouraging the development of telehealth services and exploring opportunities for mobile healthcare clinics within Acosta could also significantly improve healthcare access.

By addressing these transportation challenges, Acosta can better support the health and well-being of its residents, making it a more attractive and supportive community for those seeking a rural lifestyle. The ongoing efforts of the community to improve healthcare access will ultimately enhance the quality of life for everyone living in Acosta.