15730, Coolspring, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15730, Coolspring, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.15 percent of residents in 15730 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 6.08 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15730**

The picturesque community of Coolspring, nestled within ZIP Code 15730, offers a tranquil setting. However, assessing its overall health requires a deep dive into a critical aspect: **healthcare access**. This analysis examines the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, considering various **transportation** options and their associated challenges. This 'Overall Health Score' aims to paint a clear picture, providing valuable insights for both current and prospective residents, particularly those considering **moving to Coolspring**.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in geographical proximity. Residents of 15730 are fortunate to have some healthcare facilities relatively close by. However, the specific location of a resident within the ZIP code can significantly impact their commute times. Driving is the primary mode of transport for most residents. The road network, while generally well-maintained, presents its own set of variables.

The main thoroughfare is **U.S. Route 119**, which serves as a vital artery connecting Coolspring to larger towns and cities. Traveling north on Route 119 towards Punxsutawney, the drive time to Punxsutawney Area Hospital is approximately 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Southbound on Route 119, a trip to Indiana Regional Medical Center in Indiana, PA, typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes. These estimates are based on average driving speeds and do not account for potential delays due to weather conditions, construction, or accidents.

Other significant roads influencing healthcare access include **State Route 403** and **State Route 536**. These roads offer alternative routes, potentially reducing travel times for residents in specific areas of the ZIP code. However, these routes can also be winding and less direct, especially when compared to the more direct approach of Route 119.

The availability of **public transit** in 15730 is limited. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides some bus service in the region, but its routes and schedules are not extensive. While ICTA does serve the general area, direct routes within the ZIP code itself are scarce. The ICTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access the system. However, the infrequent service and limited coverage pose a significant challenge for those who rely on public transit for their healthcare needs.

The ICTA bus route that would be most relevant for residents of Coolspring would be Route 10, which travels to Indiana. This route has stops near the Indiana Regional Medical Center. However, a bus ride from Coolspring to Indiana can easily take over an hour, making it a less-than-ideal option for urgent medical needs.

**Ride-sharing** services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, though their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. The availability of these services can fluctuate based on driver availability and demand. While ride-sharing offers a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, the cost can be a barrier for some residents, especially those with frequent healthcare appointments.

**Medical transport** services are available for individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Several companies, such as Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and First Transit, provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the area. These services are typically covered by insurance for eligible individuals. However, booking these services often requires advance notice, and the availability can be limited.

Assessing the 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in 15730 requires considering these factors. The convenience of driving to healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on medical transport services all contribute to the overall score.

The score would likely be moderate. While residents have access to medical facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services impact the overall score. The score would be improved if public transportation were expanded, and the availability of ride-sharing services increased.

For individuals **moving to Coolspring**, understanding these **transportation** challenges is crucial. The availability of a personal vehicle becomes almost a necessity. Those who are unable to drive or do not have access to a vehicle will face significant obstacles in accessing healthcare. Planning for potential transportation needs, including exploring medical transport options, is essential.

The proximity to the Punxsutawney Area Hospital and Indiana Regional Medical Center offers reassurance. However, the drive times, especially to Indiana, PA, can be a concern, particularly during inclement weather or in the event of a medical emergency.

The healthcare landscape in 15730 is further shaped by the availability of specialized medical services. Access to specialists, such as cardiologists, oncologists, and neurologists, often requires traveling to larger cities like Pittsburgh, which is about a two-hour drive. This further underscores the importance of reliable **transportation**.

The overall health of a community is not solely determined by the availability of healthcare facilities. It also encompasses factors such as access to healthy food, opportunities for physical activity, and social support networks. However, access to healthcare is a fundamental pillar.

In conclusion, while Coolspring offers a desirable living environment, the 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in 15730 is influenced by the challenges of **transportation**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present obstacles for some residents. Prospective residents considering **moving to Coolspring** must carefully evaluate their transportation needs and plan accordingly to ensure they can access the healthcare they require. This comprehensive analysis provides a clear picture of the healthcare access landscape, enabling informed decisions for both current and future residents.