15535, Clearville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15535, Clearville, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.88 percent of residents in 15535 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Bedford Memorial with a distance of 13.63 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Clearville (ZIP Code 15535)

Considering a move to the charming community of Clearville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15535)? Beyond the picturesque landscapes and friendly faces, understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount for overall well-being. This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access within and beyond the Clearville area.

The foundation of our assessment rests on the principle that timely and reliable access to medical care is a cornerstone of good health. We'll delve into the practicalities of getting to appointments, considering drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. This information is crucial for making an informed decision about your health and lifestyle in Clearville.

**Drive Times: The Open Road to Wellness**

For many Clearville residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. Understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is therefore critical. The primary arteries connecting Clearville to healthcare providers are Pennsylvania Route 96 and Pennsylvania Route 31. These roads provide access to local clinics and, importantly, connect to the larger network of hospitals and specialists.

Traveling north on Route 96 offers access to facilities in Bedford, a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This route provides a direct link to UPMC Bedford Memorial Hospital, a vital resource for emergency care, inpatient services, and a range of outpatient clinics. Heading south on Route 96, you can reach Everett, a town with smaller clinics and physician offices, typically within a 15-20 minute drive.

Route 31 provides another critical link, connecting Clearville to Somerset. This drive, usually taking around 45-60 minutes, opens access to UPMC Somerset, a larger hospital offering a broader range of specialized medical services. The drive along Route 31 is scenic, but can be subject to delays, especially during peak travel times or inclement weather.

The ease of navigating these routes is a significant factor in the "Overall Health Score." While the drive times are generally manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of car ownership and maintenance for healthcare access in Clearville.

**Public Transit: A Limited Alternative**

Unfortunately, public transportation options in Clearville and the surrounding areas are limited. The availability of public transit significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score," especially for those without personal vehicles or who may have mobility limitations.

The primary public transit provider in the region is the Somerset CountySomerset County Transportation Authority (SCTA). However, their routes and schedules are designed primarily to serve the larger towns, such as Somerset and Bedford. While some routes may pass through or near Clearville, they are infrequent and may not align with the schedules of medical appointments.

Furthermore, the SCTA's services may have limited accessibility for individuals with disabilities. While the organization strives to provide ADA-compliant services, the availability of accessible vehicles and routes should be verified prior to relying on public transit for healthcare appointments. This limitation significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score" for individuals with mobility challenges.

**Ride-Sharing: A Modern Solution, with Limitations**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, their availability in Clearville and the surrounding rural areas is variable.

The presence of ride-sharing services often depends on driver availability and demand. While these services may be present, the wait times can be longer compared to urban areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

The reliability of ride-sharing for critical medical needs, such as emergency transport, is also a consideration. The "Overall Health Score" must account for the potential limitations of ride-sharing in this context.

**Medical Transport: Specialized Care on the Move**

For individuals with specific medical needs, specialized medical transport services play a crucial role in healthcare access. These services cater to patients who require assistance with mobility or medical supervision during transport.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) companies. Ambulance services are primarily for emergency situations, while NEMT services provide transport for non-emergency medical appointments, such as dialysis treatments or doctor visits.

The availability and cost of these services are essential factors in the "Overall Health Score." Residents should research and understand the available medical transport options and their associated costs to ensure they can access the care they need.

**Assessing the "Overall Health Score"**

Considering all the factors, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Clearville (ZIP Code 15535) presents a mixed picture. While the drive times to local healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing services is variable, and the cost can be a barrier. However, specialized medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with specific needs.

The "Overall Health Score" is therefore influenced by individual circumstances. Residents with reliable access to a personal vehicle and the ability to drive to appointments will likely find healthcare access relatively straightforward. However, those without a vehicle or with mobility limitations may face significant challenges.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for Clearville residents, several measures could be implemented. Increasing the frequency and reach of public transit, particularly to connect Clearville with healthcare hubs, would be beneficial. Promoting ride-sharing services and incentivizing driver availability in the area could also improve access.

Furthermore, the expansion of telehealth services could reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for routine check-ups and consultations. Finally, ensuring that medical transport services are readily available and affordable is crucial for those with specific needs.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective on Healthcare Access**

Moving to Clearville offers the allure of a close-knit community and a slower pace of life. However, when considering healthcare access, it's vital to acknowledge the transportation challenges. While the drive times to local facilities are reasonable, the limited public transit and variable ride-sharing options require careful consideration.

By understanding the available transportation options and their limitations, potential residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The "Overall Health Score" for Clearville reflects a community where healthcare access is achievable, but requires careful planning and awareness of the available resources.