15540, Fort Hill, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15540, Fort Hill, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.62 percent of residents in 15540 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Meyersdale Medical Center with a distance of 10.45 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15540 (Fort Hill, PA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 15540, encompassing the community of Fort Hill, Pennsylvania, necessitates a deep dive into the critical aspect of healthcare access. This includes a comprehensive evaluation of transportation options available to individuals seeking medical care, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. The ability to readily access healthcare is a cornerstone of community well-being, and its accessibility significantly impacts the overall health score.

Fort Hill, nestled within Somerset County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The area's rural character influences travel patterns, often relying heavily on personal vehicles. The availability of alternative transportation methods, such as public transit and ride-sharing, is limited compared to more urban environments. This dependence on personal vehicles can pose significant barriers to healthcare access, particularly for those without a car, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways serving Fort Hill and connecting it to healthcare facilities are critical to the health score. Residents often utilize **US Route 219**, a major north-south artery, to reach hospitals and clinics in Somerset and Johnstown. Travel times vary significantly based on the destination and traffic conditions. A drive to UPMC Somerset, the closest major hospital, typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, covering approximately 15 miles. This journey primarily involves navigating US Route 219.

Traveling to Johnstown, approximately 30 miles east, to access facilities like Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, can take upwards of 45 minutes to an hour. This route often involves a combination of US Route 219 and **Pennsylvania Route 56**, adding to the complexity of the commute. During inclement weather, such as snow or ice, these drive times can dramatically increase, posing a significant challenge for individuals requiring urgent medical attention.

Smaller roads like **Glades Pike** and **Lambertsville Road** offer alternative routes, but these are often less direct and may be in poorer condition, further impacting travel times and safety. The condition of these roads and their impact on travel times and safety is a factor in the overall health score.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in the 15540 ZIP code are extremely limited. The Somerset County Transportation Authority (SCTA) provides some bus services within the county, but routes and schedules are often infrequent and may not directly serve Fort Hill or offer convenient access to healthcare facilities. The SCTA's routes are primarily designed to connect residents to major towns and cities within the county, and the service may not be equipped to handle the unique needs of those seeking healthcare.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on these buses is crucial. While the SCTA aims to provide accessible services, the reliability and frequency of these features must be assessed. A lack of consistent and reliable ADA-compliant transportation significantly impacts the health score for individuals with disabilities, limiting their access to necessary medical care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Somerset County area, but their presence is often limited, and availability may be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. This unreliability can create significant challenges for individuals who rely on these services to reach medical appointments. The cost of these services can also be a barrier for some residents, further impacting their healthcare access.

Specialized medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are crucial for individuals who cannot drive themselves and do not have access to other transportation options. Several providers serve the Somerset County area, including local ambulance services and private companies. However, the availability, cost, and coverage areas of these services vary. The health score is influenced by the availability of these services and the efficiency with which they can transport individuals to and from medical appointments.

**Medical Transport Brands and Considerations:**

Several NEMT providers operate in the region, including **Somerset Ambulance Service**, and **Medic 10**. These services provide transportation for individuals with medical needs, including those who require wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transport. The cost of these services and whether they accept various insurance plans are vital considerations. The overall health score is impacted by the affordability and accessibility of these services.

**Impact on the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for residents of ZIP code 15540 is significantly impacted by the challenges associated with transportation to healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create barriers to accessing medical care. The distance to healthcare facilities, coupled with the potential for increased travel times due to weather or traffic, further exacerbates these challenges.

The availability and affordability of specialized medical transport services are critical, particularly for vulnerable populations. The overall health score reflects the need for improved transportation infrastructure and services to ensure that all residents can readily access the healthcare they need.

**Moving to Fort Hill and Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Fort Hill, the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access should be a key consideration. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs, the availability of reliable transportation options, and the potential costs associated with accessing medical care. The health score is a reflection of the community's commitment to providing accessible healthcare for all residents.

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, the overall health score for ZIP code 15540 is influenced by the transportation infrastructure and services available to residents seeking healthcare. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present significant challenges. Addressing these transportation barriers is essential to improve the health score and ensure that all residents of Fort Hill have equitable access to the medical care they need. The health score is a dynamic measure, and improvements in transportation options would undoubtedly lead to a higher score and a healthier community.