15534, Buffalo Mills, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15534, Buffalo Mills, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.57 percent of residents in 15534 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Bedford Memorial with a distance of 15.25 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Buffalo Mills, PA (ZIP Code 15534)

The well-being of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access essential services, particularly healthcare. This report delves into the accessibility of healthcare facilities for residents of Buffalo Mills, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15534), providing an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options, drive times, and the availability of alternative transport methods. This assessment aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access, vital information for anyone considering moving to Buffalo Mills and assessing the community's overall health infrastructure.

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite measure reflecting the ease with which residents can reach medical care. It considers factors like the proximity of facilities, the efficiency of various transportation modes, and the presence of services catering to diverse needs, including those with disabilities. The score will be presented without a numerical value, instead offering a qualitative assessment based on the gathered data. This approach allows for a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the community.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries of Access**

For residents of Buffalo Mills, the automobile remains the dominant mode of transportation. The primary roadways influencing healthcare access include Pennsylvania Route 26 (PA-26), a vital north-south artery, and Pennsylvania Route 96 (PA-96), which provides east-west connectivity. These roads act as the primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities, connecting Buffalo Mills to surrounding towns and cities where medical services are concentrated.

Traveling to the closest healthcare facilities requires navigating these routes. The nearest hospital, UPMC Bedford, is approximately 15 miles away, translating to a drive time of roughly 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. The journey typically involves taking PA-26 south and then transitioning to US-220. Further afield, but offering a wider range of specialized care, is the UPMC Altoona, approximately 45 miles away, a trip that could take up to an hour, primarily utilizing US-220 and I-99.

Traffic conditions, especially during peak hours or adverse weather, can significantly impact drive times. Rural roads, while offering scenic views, can also be prone to delays due to accidents, road closures, or seasonal conditions. Therefore, residents must factor in potential delays when planning medical appointments. The reliability of personal transportation is crucial for ensuring timely access to care.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Navigating Challenges**

Public transportation options in Buffalo Mills and the surrounding areas are limited. The Bedford County Transit Authority (BCTA) offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is available for residents within Bedford County, but its availability and frequency can be restricted, especially for those needing immediate or urgent care.

The BCTA's routes are not fixed, operating based on individual requests. This system, while providing a degree of accessibility, is not ideal for spontaneous medical needs. Riders must plan their trips in advance, potentially limiting their ability to seek care promptly. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the overall efficiency of the public transit system in serving healthcare needs is moderate.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, their availability can be variable, particularly in rural areas. The cost of ride-share services can also be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility issues or those requiring specialized assistance, are also available. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services are often covered by insurance, providing a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or utilize other forms of transportation.

**Overall Assessment: A Complex Landscape**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Buffalo Mills, PA (15534) presents a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options create challenges for some residents. While drive times to the nearest hospital are reasonable, the distance to more specialized care facilities and the potential for traffic delays must be considered.

The availability of ride-share services and medical transport options provides essential support, particularly for those with mobility limitations. These services help bridge the gaps created by the lack of robust public transit. The overall healthcare access is adequate, but it is not without its challenges.

**Implications for Moving to Buffalo Mills**

For individuals considering moving to Buffalo Mills, understanding the transportation landscape is critical. The reliance on personal vehicles means that access to a reliable car is essential. Prospective residents should also assess their healthcare needs and consider the potential travel times to medical facilities.

The availability of medical transport services and ride-share options offers reassurance, particularly for those who cannot drive or have limited mobility. However, the cost and availability of these services should be factored into the overall assessment of healthcare access.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" reflects the importance of planning and preparedness when it comes to healthcare access in Buffalo Mills. While the community offers reasonable access to medical care, residents must be proactive in ensuring their transportation needs are met. This information is crucial for anyone considering making Buffalo Mills their home and assessing its suitability for their healthcare requirements. This community, while offering a serene lifestyle, requires careful consideration of its transportation infrastructure when evaluating healthcare access.