15539, Fishertown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15539, Fishertown, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.77 percent of residents in 15539 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Bedford Memorial with a distance of 10.79 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15539

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 15539, encompassing the charming community of Fishertown, necessitates a deep dive into the critical intersection of transportation and healthcare access. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Fishertown and evaluating their healthcare needs. The ability to efficiently and reliably reach medical facilities directly impacts overall well-being, making this a pivotal factor in the health score.

Fishertown, nestled in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The rural nature of the area, while offering tranquility, often translates to longer distances to specialized medical care. The primary challenge lies in the potential for extended travel times, particularly for those requiring urgent or frequent medical attention. This write-up provides an informed perspective on the existing healthcare infrastructure and the means of navigating it.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

The predominant mode of transportation in Fishertown is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this method hinges on the road network and the distances to various healthcare providers. The primary thoroughfare serving the area is US Route 220, a vital artery connecting Fishertown to larger population centers like Bedford and Altoona. Traveling north on Route 220 provides access to UPMC Bedford Memorial Hospital, a critical care facility, typically within a 20- to 30-minute drive, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within the ZIP code.

Another essential route is Interstate 99, which intersects with Route 220, offering a quicker, albeit toll-based, route to Altoona and its associated healthcare facilities, including UPMC Altoona. This drive, while potentially shorter in distance, can be impacted by traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Smaller roads, such as State Route 31 and local roads like Fishertown Road and Spring Street, provide access to local clinics and family practices, but these options may not offer the same level of specialized care.

The drive times to specialists and tertiary care centers, such as those in Johnstown or Pittsburgh, can extend significantly, potentially exceeding an hour or two. This underscores the importance of proactive healthcare management and the need for readily available transportation options in case of emergencies. The reliability of a personal vehicle, therefore, becomes a significant factor in the health score.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Fishertown and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary provider of public transit is the Bedford County Transit Authority (BCTA). However, BCTA's services are primarily geared towards serving the county seat of Bedford and do not offer frequent or direct routes to healthcare facilities outside of the immediate area.

The BCTA operates on a demand-response basis, meaning that riders must schedule their trips in advance. This can be a significant hurdle for those needing spontaneous medical care or regular appointments. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations. The BCTA does provide ADA-compliant services, but the advance booking requirement can still present challenges.

The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the health score, particularly for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. This underscores the need for exploring alternative transportation solutions, such as ride-sharing or medical transport services.

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

The presence of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Fishertown is limited. Their availability can vary depending on driver availability and demand. This makes them an unreliable option for urgent medical needs or scheduled appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially for longer distances to specialized healthcare providers.

Medical transport services, on the other hand, play a critical role in bridging the healthcare access gap. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services in the area. These services typically cater to individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to transportation. They often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility devices and escorting patients to and from appointments.

Some prominent medical transport brands operating in the region include, but are not limited to, First Transit and Logisticare. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements, such as insurance coverage. The availability and reliability of these services are essential factors in the health score, particularly for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

The overall health score for residents of ZIP code 15539, when considering healthcare access, is moderately impacted by the limitations in transportation options. While residents have access to a hospital within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of robust public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges.

The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for extended travel times to specialized care centers are significant considerations. The availability and reliability of medical transport services are crucial in mitigating these challenges. The ability of the community to support those with mobility limitations or without personal vehicles is also a factor.

For individuals considering moving to Fishertown, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is essential. Understanding the limitations of the existing infrastructure and exploring available alternatives, such as medical transport services, is critical for maintaining a good quality of life.

**Recommendations**

To improve the health score for residents of Fishertown, several recommendations are pertinent. Firstly, advocating for expanded public transit services, including more frequent routes and increased access to healthcare facilities, would be beneficial. Secondly, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to increase their presence and availability in the area would be valuable.

Thirdly, promoting awareness of and access to medical transport services is essential. This includes educating residents about eligibility requirements, insurance coverage, and booking procedures. Finally, encouraging the development of telehealth services and remote monitoring programs can help to reduce the need for frequent in-person visits and improve healthcare access for those in remote areas.

By addressing these recommendations, the community can enhance the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 15539, ensuring that everyone has access to the healthcare they need. The health and well-being of the community depend on the ease and efficiency with which its members can access the care they require. This is particularly crucial for those moving to Fishertown, who should be fully informed about the transportation landscape.