15729, Commodore, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15729, Commodore, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.84 percent of residents in 15729 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Miners Medical Center with a distance of 12.06 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15729 (Commodore, PA)

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a critical aspect of overall well-being. For residents of Commodore, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15729), the journey to receive necessary medical attention involves a multifaceted transportation landscape. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering various factors, including drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing options, to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in this rural community.

The score considers the challenges and opportunities presented by the geographical location of Commodore. Situated in Indiana County, the community is surrounded by rolling hills and woodlands, which can influence transportation options. The availability of reliable transportation directly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely and appropriate medical care, thus affecting their overall health.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Commodore is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The efficiency of this method is contingent upon the distance to healthcare facilities and the quality of the roadways. Residents typically rely on a network of local roads and highways to reach their appointments.

For routine appointments, the closest facilities, such as the Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), are located approximately 10 to 15 miles away. This drive typically involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 119, a major north-south artery, and connecting roads like Route 580 and Route 286. Under normal traffic conditions, this commute averages around 20 to 30 minutes.

Specialized care or more extensive treatment may necessitate travel to larger medical centers in Pittsburgh, roughly 60 to 70 miles away. This journey would primarily involve Interstate 80 East, a major east-west thoroughfare, and potentially the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76). Such a trip can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

The condition of these roadways is an important consideration. While the state of Pennsylvania maintains these roads, potholes, snow, and ice during winter months can significantly impact travel times and safety. These factors pose a particular challenge for elderly residents or those with mobility limitations.

**Public Transit:**

Public transportation options in Commodore are limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides some bus service within the county, but the routes and schedules may not be ideally suited for accessing healthcare facilities.

ICTA route information needs to be verified for specific routes servicing Commodore. The availability of routes and their frequency directly affects the healthcare access of residents. The ICTA website should be consulted for updated route maps and schedules.

The accessibility of public transit is also a crucial consideration. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems provide accessible services for individuals with disabilities. This includes features like ramps, lifts, and designated seating. However, the availability and reliability of ADA-compliant services can vary.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Indiana County area. However, their presence in Commodore may be limited, and availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a valuable alternative. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves.

Several medical transportation providers operate in the region, including First Transit and various private ambulance services. These services typically require advance booking and may involve a fee. The availability of these services and the associated costs are crucial factors in determining healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Commodore (ZIP Code 15729) is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges.

The absence of robust public transit, coupled with the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, particularly impacts vulnerable populations, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and individuals without access to a car. The need for long-distance travel to Pittsburgh for specialized care further complicates matters.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

Improving healthcare access in Commodore requires a multi-pronged approach. Enhancing public transportation options is crucial. This could involve expanding ICTA routes, increasing service frequency, and ensuring ADA compliance. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Furthermore, the community could benefit from initiatives to promote carpooling or volunteer driver programs to assist residents in reaching healthcare facilities. Telemedicine services, which allow patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, could also play a vital role in improving access, particularly for routine appointments and follow-up care.

The health score is dynamic and must be regularly reevaluated. The availability of new healthcare facilities, changes in transportation infrastructure, and the emergence of innovative healthcare delivery models can all impact the overall health score. As Commodore evolves, so too must the strategies to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.

**Moving to Commodore:**

For individuals considering moving to Commodore, the accessibility of healthcare should be a key consideration. While the area offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the transportation limitations can present challenges. Prospective residents should carefully assess their healthcare needs, their ability to travel, and their reliance on public transportation or other support services. Those with chronic health conditions or limited mobility should thoroughly research the availability of medical transportation and the proximity of specialized care facilities.

In conclusion, healthcare access in Commodore is a complex issue influenced by geographic location, transportation infrastructure, and the availability of support services. While residents have access to healthcare, the limitations in transportation create challenges, particularly for vulnerable populations. Continued efforts to improve public transit, promote ride-sharing, and support medical transportation services are essential to ensuring that all residents of Commodore have equitable access to the healthcare they need to thrive.