15725, Clarksburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15725, Clarksburg, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.62 percent of residents in 15725 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Excela Health Latrobe Hospital with a distance of 13.64 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15725 (Clarksburg, PA)

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its ability to access essential services, particularly healthcare. This report analyzes the "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 15725, focusing specifically on the critical aspect of **transportation** to healthcare facilities. Understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching doctors, hospitals, and specialized care is paramount for anyone considering **moving to Clarksburg** or already residing within its borders. This assessment considers various modes of **transportation**, evaluating their efficiency, accessibility, and overall impact on health outcomes.

Clarksburg, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Indiana County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The rural landscape, while offering scenic beauty, often translates to longer travel distances and reliance on personal vehicles. Evaluating the **healthcare access** landscape requires a nuanced approach, considering not only the physical distances but also the availability of alternative **transportation** options for those who may not have personal vehicles or face mobility limitations.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

The primary mode of **transportation** in this region is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The major thoroughfares impacting healthcare access in 15725 are Route 22, Route 119, and a network of smaller county roads. Route 22, a major east-west artery, offers the most direct access to Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), the primary hospital serving the area. Drive times to IRMC from various points within 15725 can range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions.

Route 119, running north-south, provides access to healthcare facilities in both Indiana and surrounding communities. However, travel times can be significantly longer due to the potential for congestion, particularly during peak hours. Smaller roads, such as Ramsey Road and McCormick Road, are essential for local travel but may add considerable time to journeys to specialized care facilities. The condition of these roads, especially during inclement weather, can further impact accessibility, potentially delaying or hindering access to critical medical services.

The availability of convenient parking at healthcare facilities is another factor to consider. IRMC and other medical centers generally offer ample parking, but during peak hours, finding a readily available spot can add to the overall travel time and potentially exacerbate stress levels for patients and their families.

**Public Transit Evaluation:**

Public **transportation** options in 15725 are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) operates a bus service within the county. However, the routes and schedules may not always align with the specific needs of healthcare access.

The ICTA offers some routes that connect Clarksburg with Indiana, providing a potential link to IRMC and other medical providers. However, these routes may have limited frequency, particularly on weekends and evenings, making it difficult to schedule appointments or access emergency care. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses is essential to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Confirming the percentage of the ICTA fleet equipped with ramps, lifts, and other accessibility features is crucial for evaluating the overall health score.

The ICTA website and local information sources should be consulted to determine the precise route numbers, schedules, and ADA accessibility details. The lack of robust public **transportation** options is a significant factor that negatively impacts the overall health score for residents of 15725, especially those who are elderly, disabled, or lack personal vehicles.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Options:**

The rise of ride-share services like Uber and Lyft has offered an alternative **transportation** option in many areas. However, the availability of these services in rural areas like 15725 can be inconsistent. Ride-share services may be available but may have limited operating hours or higher fares due to the distance and demand.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another consideration. These services, often provided by specialized companies or ambulance services, are particularly valuable for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, potentially limiting spontaneous access to care.

Researching the availability and cost of medical **transportation** providers in the area, such as Medicar or similar services, is crucial. Assessing their service areas, appointment scheduling procedures, and insurance coverage acceptance is essential for a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in 15725 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential challenges associated with ride-share and medical **transportation** services all contribute to the overall picture.

The distance to healthcare facilities, the condition of the roads, and the availability of parking all impact the ease and efficiency of reaching medical appointments. The availability of accessible **transportation** options for individuals with disabilities is also a critical consideration.

The frequency and reliability of public transit, the responsiveness of ride-share services, and the affordability of medical **transportation** services all play a role in determining the overall health score. The score should also consider the availability of healthcare providers within the community, such as primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in 15725 should be considered as a dynamic measure, subject to change based on infrastructure improvements, service expansions, and evolving community needs. Any individual or family considering **moving to Clarksburg** should carefully weigh these factors when assessing the community's suitability for their health needs.

**Conclusion:**

The assessment of **healthcare access** in 15725 reveals a landscape that presents both opportunities and challenges. While the proximity to IRMC offers a critical advantage, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public **transportation** options pose potential barriers for some residents. The availability and affordability of ride-share and medical **transportation** services are crucial factors to consider.

Improving the overall health score for **healthcare access** in 15725 requires a multi-faceted approach. This may include advocating for improved public **transportation** services, promoting the availability of ride-share options, and supporting programs that assist individuals with medical **transportation** needs. Further research into specific healthcare needs within the community and the development of targeted interventions will be essential to ensure that all residents have equitable access to quality healthcare services.