15564, Wellersburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15564, Wellersburg, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.44 percent of residents in 15564 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Meyersdale Medical Center with a distance of 11.42 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Wellersburg, PA (ZIP Code 15564)

This comprehensive analysis assesses the overall health score for residents of Wellersburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15564), focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. Understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching medical facilities is crucial for residents’ well-being, especially in a rural area like Wellersburg. This evaluation considers various modes of transportation, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare access for those living in or considering moving to Wellersburg.

The geography of Wellersburg, nestled in Somerset County, significantly influences healthcare access. The town is characterized by rolling hills and rural landscapes, which often translate into longer travel times and limited transportation choices. The availability of healthcare facilities within the immediate vicinity is limited, meaning residents must often travel to nearby towns and cities for specialized care. This necessitates a careful examination of the transportation infrastructure and its ability to support residents' healthcare needs.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation for most Wellersburg residents is the personal vehicle. The road network, while generally well-maintained, presents some challenges. Accessing healthcare facilities often involves navigating a combination of state highways and local roads.

Traveling to the UPMC Somerset Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, requires a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route. This journey typically involves using **PA-985** and then connecting to **US-219**, a major north-south artery. The condition of these roads is generally good, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety.

For specialized care or access to a wider range of medical professionals, residents may need to travel to Johnstown or Cumberland, Maryland. Reaching Johnstown necessitates a drive of about an hour, primarily via **US-219** and **PA-56**. Cumberland, approximately an hour and a half away, involves traveling on **I-68** and **US-219**. These longer distances highlight the importance of reliable transportation and the potential for increased travel costs.

The condition of local roads, such as **Wellersburg Road** and **Buffalo Road**, can vary. While generally passable, these roads may be less well-maintained than state highways, potentially increasing travel times and posing challenges for vehicles with limited ground clearance. The presence of winding roads and hilly terrain further contributes to the complexity of navigating the area, emphasizing the need for careful driving and vehicle maintenance.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Wellersburg are limited. Somerset County Transportation (SCOOT) provides some public transit services, but the frequency of routes and the geographical coverage within the county are restricted. SCOOT's services are primarily focused on providing transportation to essential destinations, including medical appointments, but the availability of routes directly serving Wellersburg may be limited.

The accessibility of public transit is a critical factor for individuals who cannot drive or who prefer not to drive. The lack of readily available public transportation can create significant barriers to healthcare access, particularly for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

SCOOT's vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, to ensure that individuals with disabilities can utilize the services. However, the limited service area and infrequent schedules can still pose challenges for those relying on public transit. Potential riders should contact SCOOT directly to confirm route availability, schedules, and ADA accessibility features.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Somerset County area, but their presence in Wellersburg itself may be inconsistent. The availability of these services depends on driver density and demand. Residents may experience longer wait times or higher fares compared to more populated areas.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available to provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services are often essential for patients who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments or who have mobility limitations.

The availability of NEMT services can vary depending on the patient's insurance coverage and the specific needs of the individual. It is crucial for residents to understand their insurance coverage and to explore available medical transport options.

**Healthcare Access and Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for Wellersburg residents, considering transportation and healthcare access, is moderately impacted by the challenges of rural living. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in transportation options, particularly public transit, and the distance to healthcare facilities present obstacles to timely and convenient healthcare access.

The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful planning and financial resources for vehicle maintenance and fuel costs. The limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing services further restricts access for those who cannot or prefer not to drive.

The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial lifeline for individuals with specific medical needs. However, the cost of these services and the potential for limited availability can still pose challenges.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the overall health score for Wellersburg residents, several initiatives could be considered. Expanding the availability of public transit, including more frequent routes and broader geographical coverage, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer discounted fares or subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Promoting the use of telehealth services, where appropriate, can reduce the need for in-person visits and alleviate some of the transportation burdens. Enhancing the availability of medical transport services and educating residents about their options are also crucial.

For those considering moving to Wellersburg, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Understanding the available options and planning accordingly can help ensure that healthcare access is not a significant barrier to their well-being.

In conclusion, while Wellersburg offers a desirable lifestyle for many, the transportation challenges impacting healthcare access warrant careful consideration. By addressing these challenges through strategic initiatives and community collaboration, the overall health score for Wellersburg residents can be improved, fostering a healthier and more accessible environment for all.