15625, Darragh, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15625, Darragh, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 15625 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ahn Emerus Westmoreland, Llc with a distance of 5.14 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15625 (Darragh, PA)

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Darragh, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15625) necessitates a thorough understanding of its transportation infrastructure. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" by evaluating the ease of access to medical facilities, encompassing drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services. The goal is to provide a clear picture for residents and those considering moving to Darragh, ensuring informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single numerical value but a composite assessment. It considers the availability, reliability, and accessibility of various transportation modes, directly impacting an individual's ability to reach healthcare providers. Factors like distance, traffic congestion, and the availability of specialized transportation services are all crucial components.

**Drive Times: The Primary Mode**

For many Darragh residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments. The proximity to major roadways significantly influences travel times. Access to healthcare is largely dictated by the efficiency of the road network.

The primary artery for accessing healthcare facilities is likely **Pennsylvania Route 30 (Lincoln Highway)**. This major east-west thoroughfare provides a direct route to several medical centers. Travel times vary depending on the destination and the time of day. During peak hours, expect congestion, particularly near intersections and in the vicinity of Greensburg.

Heading north, residents can utilize **Pennsylvania Route 981** for access to healthcare in areas like Latrobe. This route offers a more direct connection to some medical providers, potentially bypassing some of the congestion on Route 30.

The time to reach the nearest hospital, **Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital** in Greensburg, is a crucial factor. Depending on traffic, the drive can range from 15 to 30 minutes, potentially longer during rush hour. Other medical facilities in Greensburg, such as specialized clinics and physician offices, will have similar travel times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Darragh are limited. The **Westmoreland Transit Authority (WTA)** provides bus service in the region, but routes and schedules may not be ideal for healthcare access.

The availability of WTA routes in Darragh itself is limited. Residents may need to travel to nearby towns like Greensburg or Latrobe to access a bus stop. The WTA's website and schedule information should be consulted to determine the specific routes and times that best suit healthcare needs.

Accessibility is a critical consideration. The WTA is required to provide accessible services under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). All WTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, and operators are trained to assist passengers with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of service and potential transfer requirements can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Supplemental Services**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation option. Their availability in Darragh may be variable, depending on driver availability and demand. These services can be particularly useful for appointments when driving is not feasible.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles, and may be equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges.

Several medical transportation providers operate in the region. **MedExpress Transportation** and **Care Ride** are potential options, and residents should research providers to find the best fit for their needs. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility criteria.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

Healthcare access in Darragh is a multifaceted challenge. While the proximity to major roadways offers some convenience, factors like traffic congestion, limited public transit, and the availability of specialized transportation services all contribute to the overall ease of accessing healthcare.

The distance to the nearest hospital and specialized clinics is a primary consideration. The drive times, even with the benefit of highways like Route 30 and Route 981, can be significant, particularly during peak hours.

The reliability of transportation is another crucial factor. Unexpected delays due to traffic, mechanical issues, or weather conditions can disrupt appointments and potentially impact health outcomes.

The availability of specialized transportation services is essential for individuals with mobility limitations or other health conditions that make it difficult to drive or use public transit.

**Moving to Darragh: Weighing the Transportation Factors**

For individuals considering moving to Darragh, understanding the transportation infrastructure is essential. The "Overall Health Score" is a critical component of this assessment.

The accessibility of healthcare should be carefully considered. Prospective residents should evaluate their transportation needs and assess the availability of suitable options.

The drive times to medical facilities, the availability of public transit, and the accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transportation services should all be factored into the decision-making process.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Darragh (ZIP Code 15625) reflects a mixed picture. While the road network provides reasonable access to medical facilities, particularly through Route 30 and Route 981, the limitations of public transit and the variability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful consideration.

Residents should proactively explore all available transportation options and plan accordingly. Advance planning, including booking appointments during off-peak hours and utilizing medical transportation services when necessary, can help mitigate the challenges of healthcare access in Darragh. The availability of medical transportation services is a positive aspect, offering support for those who need it.