15618, Avonmore, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15618, Avonmore, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.50 percent of residents in 15618 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Excela Health Latrobe Hospital with a distance of 15.18 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Avonmore, PA (ZIP Code 15618)

Avonmore, Pennsylvania, nestled in the embrace of the Kiski River Valley, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and accessibility challenges. Understanding the ease with which residents can access healthcare is paramount, especially for those considering **moving to Avonmore**. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, focusing on **transportation** options and their impact on **healthcare access** within the 15618 ZIP code.

The score will consider factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. A higher score indicates greater ease of access to healthcare facilities. This comprehensive evaluation aims to empower informed decisions regarding healthcare needs within the Avonmore community.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary arteries for navigating the region are Pennsylvania Route 286 (Saltsburg Road) and U.S. Route 22. These roadways serve as the lifelines connecting Avonmore to surrounding communities and healthcare providers. The drive time to healthcare facilities is a critical determinant of the Overall Health Score.

For routine medical appointments, the closest options lie in Saltsburg and Apollo, both within a reasonable driving distance. A trip to Saltsburg, via PA-286, typically takes around 5-10 minutes, offering swift access to primary care physicians and basic medical services. Apollo, also accessible via PA-286, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive, providing a wider array of medical specialties and facilities.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to the larger medical centers in Greensburg or Pittsburgh. Greensburg, accessible via PA-286 and U.S. Route 22, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive. This journey provides access to Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider. Pittsburgh, a more significant healthcare hub, is approximately an hour to an hour and a half drive, depending on traffic conditions. This route involves navigating U.S. Route 22 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike, offering access to world-class hospitals and specialized medical centers.

Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Road closures due to weather or construction can also pose challenges. These variables are considered in the Overall Health Score assessment.

**Public Transportation Assessment:**

Public transportation options in Avonmore are limited. The Westmoreland Transit Authority (WTA) provides bus service in the region, but routes and schedules may not directly serve Avonmore or offer frequent connections to healthcare facilities. Residents must rely on personal vehicles or alternative transport for most healthcare appointments.

WTA Route 10, which runs between Greensburg and Apollo, might offer some connectivity, but a transfer would likely be necessary. The frequency of service and the potential for lengthy travel times can be a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. WTA buses are equipped with features like ramps and lifts to accommodate individuals with mobility impairments. However, the availability of accessible routes and the overall efficiency of the system remain a concern. The lack of robust public transit significantly lowers the Overall Health Score.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Avonmore area, but their availability and reliability can vary. Rural areas often experience longer wait times and potentially higher fares compared to urban centers. This can present a challenge for those needing immediate or frequent medical transportation.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a vital role in ensuring healthcare access. Emergency medical services are readily available through local volunteer fire departments and ambulance services. Non-emergency medical transportation providers, such as Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare, offer scheduled transportation for medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive.

The availability and responsiveness of these services contribute positively to the Overall Health Score, especially for those with specific needs. The cost of these services and potential limitations in coverage by insurance providers are also considered.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion:**

Considering all the factors, the Overall Health Score for accessing healthcare in Avonmore, PA (15618) is moderate. While the availability of local primary care and basic medical services in nearby towns is positive, the limitations in public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services for specialized care pose challenges.

The drive times to Greensburg and Pittsburgh, while manageable, can be time-consuming, particularly for frequent appointments or during inclement weather. The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, but the cost and potential limitations of these services must be considered.

For individuals **moving to Avonmore**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is essential. Those reliant on public **transportation** or with mobility limitations may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare. Understanding the available options and their limitations is critical for maintaining good health and well-being. The score reflects the current state of **healthcare access** and highlights areas where improvements in **transportation** infrastructure and services could significantly enhance the quality of life for Avonmore residents.