The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15647, Larimer, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
0.00 percent of residents in 15647 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ahn Emerus Westmoreland, Llc with a distance of 6.83 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 15647, Larimer, Pennsylvania
Overall Health Score | 100 |
---|---|
People Score | 95 |
Provider Score | 95 |
Hospital Score | 62 |
Travel Score | 79 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 15647 | Larimer | Pennsylvania |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 5.04 |
1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 21.45 |
2 Cars | 100.00 | 100.00 | 41.29 |
3 or More Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 15647, Larimer, Pennsylvania
## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15647 (Larimer, Pennsylvania)
The health of a community is intricately linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents of ZIP Code 15647, Larimer, Pennsylvania, focusing on the critical element of healthcare access, specifically the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. This score considers various modes of transportation, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Larimer and its surrounding areas.
Larimer, a small borough in Westmoreland County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its location, nestled within a suburban and rural landscape, influences the availability and practicality of different transportation options. This write-up aims to provide a clear understanding of the landscape, emphasizing the importance of accessible transportation for maintaining and improving the health and well-being of the community.
**Private Vehicle Transportation: The Dominant Mode**
For residents of Larimer, the private vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. The convenience and flexibility of a car are undeniable, particularly in a region where public transit options are limited. Several major roadways serve the area, impacting drive times and overall accessibility.
The primary artery for travel is the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76)**, providing a direct route to larger medical centers in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas. However, the toll road adds an additional cost to healthcare access, a factor to consider in the overall health score. Access to the Turnpike is relatively straightforward, with interchanges located within a reasonable driving distance of Larimer.
Local roads like **Route 30**, a major east-west thoroughfare, and **Route 981**, providing north-south connectivity, are crucial for accessing local healthcare providers and pharmacies. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially increasing drive times and adding stress to those seeking medical care.
Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the location and the time of day. For instance, a visit to a primary care physician in nearby Greensburg might take 15-20 minutes during off-peak hours, while a trip to a specialist in Pittsburgh could range from 45 minutes to an hour or more, especially during rush hour. The availability of parking at healthcare facilities is generally adequate, though parking fees may apply at larger hospitals.
**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**
Public transportation options in Larimer are limited, presenting a significant challenge for residents who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The **Westmoreland County Transit Authority (WCTA)** provides bus service in the region, but routes and schedules are often infrequent, particularly for destinations outside of the immediate Greensburg area.
The WCTA does not have a dedicated route directly serving Larimer. Residents would likely need to access a bus route in a neighboring community, requiring a walk or a short drive to a designated stop. This adds an extra layer of complexity and time to the journey, potentially deterring individuals from seeking necessary medical care.
The accessibility of WCTA buses is a critical factor. While the authority strives to provide accessible services, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities, the limited frequency of routes and the potential for long wait times can still pose challenges. The availability of real-time tracking information and user-friendly route planning tools is essential for improving the overall public transportation experience.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The availability of these services in Larimer is generally good, although the cost can be a barrier for some individuals, especially for longer trips to healthcare facilities in Pittsburgh.
Medical transportation services, such as **CareRide** and **Medical Transportation Services**, provide specialized transportation for individuals with disabilities or medical needs. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. While these services can be invaluable, they often require advance booking and may have associated fees.
The integration of ride-sharing and medical transportation services with the local healthcare system is crucial. Partnerships between hospitals, clinics, and transportation providers can help streamline the process of accessing medical care, ensuring that patients can get to their appointments safely and efficiently.
**Overall Health Score: Considerations and Recommendations**
The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Larimer, ZIP Code 15647, is influenced by the following factors: the reliance on private vehicles, the limited public transit options, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the presence of specialized medical transportation.
The score is negatively impacted by the reliance on private vehicles, which can be a barrier for individuals who cannot drive or do not own a car. The limited public transit options further exacerbate this challenge, particularly for those living in more remote areas of the borough.
The score is positively influenced by the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation, which provide alternative transportation options. However, the cost of these services and the need for advance booking can still pose challenges.
**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**
* **Enhance Public Transportation:** Advocate for increased WCTA bus routes and frequency, particularly those connecting Larimer with major healthcare facilities. Explore the feasibility of demand-response transit services, offering on-demand transportation options for residents.
* **Promote Partnerships:** Encourage collaboration between healthcare providers, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation companies to create a more integrated and affordable transportation network.
* **Invest in Infrastructure:** Improve road maintenance and traffic management to reduce drive times and improve safety. Consider the development of designated pick-up/drop-off zones for ride-sharing services at healthcare facilities.
* **Community Education:** Raise awareness about available transportation options and provide assistance to residents in accessing these services.
* **Support for Vulnerable Populations:** Implement programs to assist low-income individuals and those with disabilities in accessing transportation to healthcare appointments.
**Conclusion:**
Healthcare access is a vital component of overall community health. While Larimer, Pennsylvania, offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, particularly for those with private vehicles, there is room for improvement. By addressing the limitations of public transportation, promoting partnerships, and investing in infrastructure, the community can significantly improve its "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive the medical care they need. This analysis provides a valuable perspective for those considering moving to Larimer, highlighting the importance of considering transportation options when assessing healthcare access.
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