15670, New Alexandria, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15670, New Alexandria, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.96 percent of residents in 15670 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Excela Health Latrobe Hospital with a distance of 5.99 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15670 (New Alexandria, PA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 15670, encompassing the charming borough of New Alexandria, requires a comprehensive examination of healthcare access. This includes a deep dive into the practicalities of transportation, a critical determinant of health outcomes. The ability to reach medical appointments, specialists, and emergency care facilities significantly impacts the well-being of individuals and the community as a whole. Therefore, this analysis will meticulously evaluate the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, to provide a clear picture of healthcare accessibility in New Alexandria.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 15670 is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The majority of residents rely on their cars for daily commutes, including trips to medical facilities. The primary thoroughfare serving New Alexandria is **US Route 22**, a major east-west artery. Traveling east on Route 22 provides access to the larger healthcare hubs in the Greensburg area, approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. These hubs include Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital and numerous specialist clinics. Westbound on Route 22 offers access to facilities in Blairsville and Indiana, though these options are generally less comprehensive than those in Greensburg.

Smaller roads like **PA Route 981** and local streets provide access to smaller medical practices and urgent care facilities within a closer radius of New Alexandria. However, these often have limited hours and service offerings. The drive-time to these local facilities can vary significantly depending on the location within the ZIP code, with some residents facing shorter commutes than others.

The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can also impact healthcare access. Winter storms and heavy rainfall can make driving hazardous, potentially delaying or preventing access to medical care. Residents must be prepared for these challenges and have alternative plans in place, such as relying on family, friends, or ride-sharing services, when weather conditions make driving difficult.

Public transportation options in 15670 are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The Westmoreland County Transit Authority (WCTA) provides bus service in the county, but its routes and schedules are not designed to specifically address healthcare needs. Service to New Alexandria is infrequent, and the routes do not directly connect to major medical facilities.

Furthermore, the accessibility of the existing public transit system for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. The WCTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can utilize the service. However, the limited frequency of service and the lack of direct routes to healthcare facilities pose significant barriers to healthcare access for this vulnerable population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option for residents of 15670. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for individuals with limited incomes, making it a less viable option for routine medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during transport. While the availability of medical transport services in 15670 is limited, it is important to identify the providers operating in the area.

The primary medical transport services available in the area are often affiliated with healthcare providers or insurance companies. These services may offer transportation to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other healthcare-related needs. However, access to these services is often dependent on insurance coverage and the specific needs of the patient.

Evaluating the healthcare access in 15670 also demands consideration of the demographics of the community. The age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the socioeconomic status of residents all influence the demand for healthcare services and the importance of accessible transportation.

For instance, a larger elderly population may require more frequent medical appointments and face greater challenges in accessing transportation. Individuals with chronic conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, may need regular check-ups and specialized care, making reliable transportation even more crucial. The socioeconomic status of residents can also impact their ability to afford transportation options, such as ride-sharing services or personal vehicles.

The availability of healthcare facilities within the ZIP code itself is another factor to consider. While New Alexandria may have some local medical practices, residents often need to travel to larger healthcare hubs in Greensburg or other surrounding areas for specialized care, diagnostic testing, and hospital services. The distance and travel time to these facilities further underscore the importance of reliable transportation.

When considering moving to New Alexandria, prospective residents should carefully evaluate the healthcare access options available. This includes assessing their own transportation needs, considering the availability of public transit or ride-sharing services, and understanding the drive-times to nearby medical facilities.

Ultimately, the overall health score for residents of 15670 is directly linked to their ability to access healthcare. While the reliance on personal vehicles offers a degree of convenience, the limited public transportation options and the potential challenges posed by weather conditions and the availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access for some residents. The absence of readily available medical transport services further exacerbates these challenges.

To improve the overall health score, efforts should be focused on enhancing transportation options, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations. This could include expanding public transit routes to connect to healthcare facilities, subsidizing ride-sharing services for low-income residents, and increasing the availability of medical transport services. By addressing these transportation challenges, the community can ensure that all residents of New Alexandria have equitable access to the healthcare they need to thrive.