15620, Bradenville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15620, Bradenville, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.49 percent of residents in 15620 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Excela Health Latrobe Hospital with a distance of 2.49 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Bradenville (ZIP Code 15620)

Bradenville, Pennsylvania, a small community nestled in the Laurel Highlands, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access. This analysis, focused on ZIP Code 15620, examines the challenges and opportunities surrounding transportation to healthcare facilities, ultimately providing an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty residents face in obtaining necessary medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare accessibility landscape.

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite metric, considering the following factors: ease of travel to primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and emergency services; the availability and reliability of transportation options; and the presence of features accommodating individuals with disabilities. The score will be presented on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 representing the most accessible and convenient access to healthcare, and 1 representing the least.

**Driving Times and Road Networks:**

For many Bradenville residents, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare is the personal vehicle. The road network, while offering scenic routes, presents certain challenges. The primary arteries for navigating the area include **US Route 30**, a major east-west thoroughfare, and **Pennsylvania Route 981**, which provides north-south connectivity.

Traveling east on **US Route 30** provides access to facilities in Latrobe, including Excela Health Latrobe Hospital, typically a 15-20 minute drive. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. The drive west on **US Route 30** leads to facilities in Greensburg, such as Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital, a journey of approximately 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic.

**Pennsylvania Route 981** offers a more direct, albeit often slower, route to some healthcare providers. Driving north on 981 might lead to clinics and offices in Derry, a drive of approximately 10-15 minutes. Southbound on 981, access to facilities in the surrounding areas is possible, but the travel times will vary depending on the specific destination.

Smaller roads, such as **Old Route 22**, **Lloydsville Road**, and various local streets, offer alternative routes, but they often involve winding roads and may be less well-maintained, impacting travel times and potentially posing challenges for those with mobility issues or during inclement weather. The overall drive-time picture suggests that while healthcare facilities are within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion can impact the overall accessibility.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options within and around Bradenville are limited, posing a significant challenge for residents without access to a personal vehicle. The Westmoreland County Transit Authority (WCTA) provides some service in the broader region, but its routes and frequency are not extensive within ZIP Code 15620.

The primary routes that might offer some connectivity to healthcare are often subject to changes. Potential routes might include those that travel along **US Route 30** or **Pennsylvania Route 981**. However, the schedules are limited, often operating only during specific hours, and the frequency of service may be infrequent. This can make it difficult for residents to schedule appointments and return home, especially for those requiring specialized care or those with limited mobility.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on WCTA buses is generally available, with features such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules significantly diminish the overall utility of public transit for healthcare access in Bradenville. The lack of robust public transportation contributes to a lower "Overall Health Score" for those reliant on alternative transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services in Bradenville can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in less densely populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, designed specifically for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the area, including, but not limited to, MedExpress, and other private ambulance services. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, making them less readily available for urgent or unscheduled medical needs. The availability of these services adds a layer of complexity to the healthcare access equation.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Bradenville:**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in ZIP Code 15620 is a **5 out of 10**. This score reflects the following:

* **Strengths:** Reasonable driving distances to healthcare facilities, particularly hospitals in Latrobe and Greensburg. Availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, albeit with limitations.
* **Weaknesses:** Limited public transit options, reliance on personal vehicles, potential for traffic congestion, and the cost and availability constraints of ride-sharing and medical transport.

For individuals considering moving to Bradenville, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. While the community offers a tranquil environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options can create barriers to accessing healthcare. Residents should carefully consider their transportation needs, the availability of healthcare providers in the area, and the potential costs associated with alternative transportation options. Proactive planning, including establishing relationships with local healthcare providers and exploring available transportation resources, is essential for ensuring adequate healthcare access. This information is essential for those considering moving to Bradenville.

The "Overall Health Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing healthcare accessibility in Bradenville. By understanding the transportation landscape, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and proactively address potential challenges. This analysis underscores the importance of continued efforts to improve public transit, expand ride-sharing availability, and ensure the affordability and accessibility of medical transportation services to enhance the overall health and well-being of the Bradenville community.