15563, Stoystown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15563, Stoystown, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.27 percent of residents in 15563 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Somerset with a distance of 9.43 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15563 (Stoystown, PA)

This analysis assesses the overall health score for residents of Stoystown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15563), focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access through various transportation modalities. A comprehensive evaluation considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical care. The goal is to provide prospective residents with the information needed to make informed decisions about moving to Stoystown.

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This access is often defined by transportation, particularly in rural areas like Stoystown. The ability to reach medical facilities promptly and reliably impacts everything from preventative care to emergency response. This write-up aims to illuminate the landscape of transportation options, revealing the strengths and weaknesses of each, and ultimately, contributing to a more informed understanding of the overall health score for this community.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

The primary mode of transportation in Stoystown is the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly impacted by the local road network. Residents primarily utilize Pennsylvania Route 30 (Lincoln Highway) and Pennsylvania Route 219 to access hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. These roads are vital arteries, but their limitations must be acknowledged.

For routine appointments, the drive to UPMC Somerset, the nearest hospital, averages approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Stoystown. This drive is generally manageable for non-emergency situations. However, during inclement weather, particularly snow and ice, travel times can increase substantially, potentially hindering timely access to care.

Specialist care often necessitates travel to Johnstown, approximately 30 to 45 minutes away via PA-219. This longer commute underscores the importance of planning and scheduling appointments in advance. The availability of specialized medical services in Johnstown is a significant draw, but the travel time presents a challenge.

Emergency situations require swift access to medical attention. The drive to UPMC Somerset is crucial. The response time of emergency medical services (EMS) is a critical component of the overall health score. The efficiency of the local EMS, coupled with the drive time to the nearest hospital, directly influences patient outcomes.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Stoystown are limited. The primary provider is the Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA). However, the CCTA's services in this area are infrequent and primarily designed to connect Stoystown to Johnstown. Route 10, the primary route serving the area, offers limited service, typically operating on a fixed schedule with specific stops.

The CCTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the infrequent service and limited route coverage pose significant challenges for residents without access to a personal vehicle, particularly for those requiring frequent medical appointments.

The lack of robust public transit options is a considerable factor in the overall health score. Residents reliant on public transportation face significant barriers to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments. This limitation highlights the need for alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. The reliability of these services can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and driver availability. Residents may experience longer wait times or higher fares, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited driver coverage.

Medical transport services, such as medical ride services, are available to assist with medical appointments. These services are often designed to provide non-emergency transportation for patients who have mobility issues or cannot drive themselves. These services may offer door-to-door transportation and assistance with mobility devices.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides some relief for residents. However, their accessibility and affordability are critical factors. The cost of these services can be a significant barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited incomes. The reliability of these services is also crucial, as delays or cancellations can disrupt healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Stoystown (15563) reflects a mixed picture. While the drive times to UPMC Somerset are relatively manageable, the limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. Residents without access to a personal vehicle face significant barriers to healthcare access.

The overall health score is further influenced by the availability of specialized medical services in Johnstown, requiring longer commutes. The reliance on personal vehicles makes the community vulnerable to the impacts of inclement weather and potential traffic delays.

The integration of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides some relief, but their affordability and reliability are critical factors. These services play a vital role in bridging the gap for those without access to personal transportation.

The overall health score for Stoystown is moderate. The community benefits from relatively short drive times to a local hospital. However, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate improvements in transportation infrastructure and the expansion of accessible and affordable transportation alternatives to enhance the overall health score.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the overall health score, several recommendations are pertinent. Expanding the CCTA's service area and frequency, particularly to connect Stoystown with Johnstown more efficiently, would greatly benefit residents. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments for low-income residents could improve access. Promoting the availability of medical transport services and ensuring their affordability is also crucial.

Finally, continued investment in road infrastructure, including snow removal and maintenance, is essential to ensure reliable access to healthcare, especially during inclement weather. By addressing these factors, Stoystown can significantly enhance its overall health score and improve the quality of life for its residents. The future of healthcare access in Stoystown hinges on a commitment to improving transportation options and ensuring that all residents have the ability to reach the medical care they need.