15629, East Vandergrift, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15629, East Vandergrift, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.95 percent of residents in 15629 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Allegheny Valley Hospital with a distance of 9.23 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in East Vandergrift (ZIP Code 15629)

Considering a move to the charming borough of East Vandergrift, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15629)? Beyond the picturesque landscapes and close-knit community, it's crucial to assess your overall health score, a metric heavily influenced by healthcare access. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, examining drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability to gauge the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. Understanding these factors is paramount for anyone contemplating a move, ensuring that your new home supports your well-being.

East Vandergrift's location in Westmoreland County presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The borough itself is relatively small, meaning residents will likely need to travel to neighboring towns and cities for comprehensive medical care. The primary determinant of your health score will be the efficiency and reliability of the transportation options available to you.

**Driving to Care: Navigating the Roads**

For many residents, driving remains the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. From East Vandergrift, the most direct routes to medical centers often involve navigating a network of highways and local roads. Accessing the region's major hospitals and clinics requires understanding the flow of traffic on these arteries.

A significant route is **Pennsylvania Route 66 (PA-66)**, which runs north-south, providing access to the Allegheny Valley Hospital in Natrona Heights, approximately 15 miles away. The drive typically takes around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route is generally straightforward, but rush hour can significantly increase travel time, particularly during weekday mornings and evenings.

Heading east, residents can utilize **PA-366** and **PA-286** to reach facilities in Apollo and surrounding areas. These routes, while scenic, can be slower due to the winding roads and potential for traffic congestion. The drive to Apollo, a town with smaller clinics and practices, is generally shorter, around 10-15 minutes. However, for specialized care, you may need to travel further afield.

The **Allegheny Valley Expressway (PA-28)** offers a faster route to Pittsburgh and its extensive network of hospitals and medical specialists. However, the commute to Pittsburgh, roughly 30-45 miles, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic. This is especially true during peak hours, when congestion around the city can be significant.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in East Vandergrift are limited, which can negatively impact the overall health score. The **Westmoreland County Transit Authority (WCTA)** provides bus service in the region, but routes and schedules may not always align with healthcare needs.

The WCTA Route 10, for instance, offers service to New Kensington and Arnold, towns with some medical facilities. However, the frequency of service is limited, and the routes may not directly serve all healthcare locations. Furthermore, the buses may not operate during evenings or weekends, restricting access for those with appointments outside of standard business hours.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor for those with mobility challenges. The WCTA strives to provide accessible buses, equipped with ramps or lifts. However, the availability of accessible routes and the distance from bus stops to medical facilities should be carefully considered.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the East Vandergrift area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), provide specialized assistance for individuals with specific medical needs. These services are crucial for those who cannot drive or use public transit. Companies like **Medic Rescue** and **STAT MedEvac** are available in the region. However, these services often require pre-booking and may have associated costs.

**Healthcare Access: Weighing the Options**

The overall health score for residents of East Vandergrift is influenced by the interplay of these transportation factors and the availability of healthcare facilities. While the borough itself may not have a wide range of medical services, the proximity to neighboring towns and cities offers access to various healthcare providers.

The drive times to hospitals and clinics, while manageable, can be subject to traffic delays, especially during peak hours. The limited public transit options and the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges for those without access to a personal vehicle.

**Considering Your Move: A Holistic Approach**

Before making a decision about moving to East Vandergrift, it is essential to assess your personal healthcare needs and how they align with the available transportation options. If you require frequent medical appointments or have mobility limitations, carefully evaluate the accessibility and reliability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services.

For those who prioritize healthcare access, consider the potential impact of traffic congestion and the distance to medical facilities. The overall health score is not just about the availability of medical services but also the ease with which you can reach them. Understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial for making an informed decision and ensuring that your new home supports your overall well-being.

Moving to East Vandergrift offers a unique lifestyle. However, a comprehensive assessment of transportation and healthcare access is vital to ensure your move aligns with your health needs. By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and improve your overall health score.