15559, Schellsburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15559, Schellsburg, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.00 percent of residents in 15559 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Bedford Memorial with a distance of 12.33 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15559 (Schellsburg, PA)

Considering a move to the charming, rural community of Schellsburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15559)? Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount. This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of 15559, evaluating the ease with which they can access essential medical services. This score considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and assesses their impact on healthcare access.

The Overall Health Score for Schellsburg is influenced significantly by its location in Bedford County, a region characterized by its scenic beauty and a relatively sparse population. This geographical context directly impacts the availability and convenience of transportation options for healthcare access. The score reflects a balance between the challenges of rural living and the resources available to mitigate those challenges.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Transportation Mode**

For residents of 15559, the automobile remains the dominant mode of transportation for accessing healthcare. The primary roadways serving Schellsburg are crucial to understanding drive times. Pennsylvania Route 31, a vital east-west artery, provides the most direct route to the closest healthcare facilities. Expect a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes to reach UPMC Bedford, the primary hospital serving the region. This drive generally involves a smooth journey, with minimal traffic congestion, even during peak hours.

Heading south on Pennsylvania Route 31, one can access facilities in the town of Bedford, including various specialist clinics and outpatient services. The drive time to Bedford is typically around 20-25 minutes, depending on the specific destination and traffic conditions. The scenic route through the countryside offers a pleasant drive, but the winding roads and potential for wildlife encounters necessitate careful driving.

For those seeking more specialized care, the drive to larger medical centers in Altoona, Pennsylvania, becomes necessary. This journey, typically taking 45-60 minutes, involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 220 North, a major highway. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience heavier traffic, especially during rush hour, potentially impacting the timely arrival at appointments.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in Schellsburg and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary provider of public transit in Bedford County is the Bedford County Transit Authority (BCTA). However, their services are primarily designed to cater to essential needs, such as shopping and employment, and routes serving Schellsburg are infrequent.

The BCTA operates several fixed routes, but these routes are not specifically designed to provide direct access to healthcare facilities from Schellsburg. Residents may need to rely on a combination of bus routes and potentially walking to reach their desired medical appointments. The BCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and route coverage can pose significant challenges for healthcare access.

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

Recognizing the limitations of public transit, ride-sharing services and specialized medical transportation providers offer alternative solutions. While the availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in Schellsburg is limited compared to urban areas, they do provide an option for those who need transportation. However, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could impact the affordability of these services.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. These services, such as ambulance companies or private medical transport providers, offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility issues or medical needs. These services often require advance booking and can be more expensive than traditional transportation options.

**Assessing the Overall Health Score**

The Overall Health Score for 15559 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation presents a significant factor. While drive times to UPMC Bedford are relatively short, the need to travel to Altoona for specialized care increases travel time and potential inconvenience.

The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further impact the score. Residents who do not have access to a personal vehicle may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial safety net, but the cost and need for advance booking can present barriers.

The Overall Health Score takes into account the following factors: the availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the accessibility of public transit, the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Schellsburg**

For individuals considering moving to Schellsburg, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Those who rely on public transit or have limited mobility should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing healthcare services.

* **Vehicle Ownership:** Owning a personal vehicle is highly recommended for residents of 15559.
* **Pre-Planning:** Plan medical appointments in advance, considering potential travel times and transportation options.
* **Medical Transportation:** Research and establish contact with medical transportation providers in advance.
* **Community Resources:** Explore local community resources and programs that may provide transportation assistance.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

The Overall Health Score for Schellsburg reflects the realities of rural living. While the community offers a peaceful and attractive environment, the accessibility of healthcare is somewhat limited by the transportation infrastructure. Residents must be prepared to rely on personal vehicles, plan their journeys carefully, and utilize available resources to ensure they can access the medical care they need. The Overall Health Score is a dynamic measure, and ongoing efforts to improve public transit, expand ride-sharing services, and support medical transportation will undoubtedly enhance healthcare access for residents of 15559. Considering the transportation challenges, healthcare access, and the allure of moving to Schellsburg requires a thoughtful approach.