15732, Creekside, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15732, Creekside, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.83 percent of residents in 15732 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 19.72 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Creekside (ZIP Code 15732)

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report delves into the transportation landscape surrounding Creekside, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15732), evaluating its impact on healthcare access. We’ll assess the available modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services, providing an overall health score reflecting the ease or difficulty residents face in reaching essential medical care. This assessment is crucial for anyone considering moving to Creekside, as transportation profoundly influences their ability to maintain optimal health.

Creekside, a small, rural community, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. Its location in Indiana County, while offering a peaceful lifestyle, necessitates careful consideration of transportation options. The primary mode of transportation for most residents is the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars underscores the importance of well-maintained roads and manageable drive times to healthcare facilities.

The major arteries serving Creekside are crucial. Pennsylvania Route 119, a vital north-south thoroughfare, connects Creekside to Indiana, the county seat, where the Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC) is located. Traveling south on Route 119, the drive to IRMC typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Route 422, another significant highway, provides access to larger regional medical centers and specialist care, but the drive times are considerably longer. Heading west on Route 422 towards Pittsburgh can take upwards of an hour and a half, depending on traffic, while traveling east to Johnstown takes roughly an hour. Local roads, such as Route 553 and various township roads, provide access to smaller clinics and doctor's offices, but these routes can be winding and less well-maintained.

Public transportation options in Creekside and Indiana County are limited. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides bus service, but the routes and schedules are infrequent, particularly in rural areas. The ICTA offers some routes that connect to Indiana, but these are designed primarily for weekday commuters and may not align with medical appointment schedules. Furthermore, the availability of accessible features, such as wheelchair lifts and ramps, on ICTA buses should be confirmed for individuals with mobility impairments. The ICTA website or a direct phone call is the best way to assess the availability of ADA features on the routes serving Creekside.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in Indiana County, though their presence is less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and driver availability. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires careful planning and scheduling, ensuring a reliable ride is secured well in advance. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical visits.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services in the region. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. Researching the specific providers serving Indiana County is essential, as service areas and pricing can vary. Some insurance plans may cover NEMT services, so checking with insurance providers is recommended.

The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance is another critical factor. While the IRMC in Indiana offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, primary care, and specialized treatments, residents of Creekside may need to travel further for certain specialized care. The drive times to Pittsburgh or Johnstown, while providing access to a broader range of medical expertise, can be a significant barrier, especially for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Creekside, considering the transportation challenges, is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create potential barriers for individuals without access to a car or those with mobility limitations. The availability of ride-sharing services offers some flexibility, but their reliability and cost can be concerns. The drive times to larger medical centers in Pittsburgh and Johnstown, while providing access to specialized care, add to the overall difficulty.

For individuals considering moving to Creekside, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Those who are reliant on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing medical care. Researching NEMT providers and confirming insurance coverage is highly recommended. Planning ahead, scheduling appointments strategically, and exploring all available transportation options are essential for maintaining good health while living in Creekside. The community’s health and well-being are directly tied to its ability to overcome these transportation challenges and ensure equitable access to healthcare for all residents. The local government and community organizations could consider initiatives to improve public transportation, promote ride-sharing programs, and advocate for increased healthcare resources within the immediate vicinity to improve the overall health score for Creekside.