15733, De Lancey, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15733, De Lancey, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.11 percent of residents in 15733 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 2.61 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 15733 (De Lancey, PA)

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 15733, focusing on their ability to access healthcare. It considers transportation options, drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport within and surrounding De Lancey, Pennsylvania. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to the area, offering a realistic view of healthcare access and its impact on overall well-being.

The health score incorporates several factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized practices, heavily influence the score. The availability and reliability of public transportation, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations, are also key. Ride-sharing services and medical transport options provide additional layers of accessibility, especially for urgent care needs or scheduled appointments.

De Lancey, a rural community, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The overall health score for 15733 is, therefore, influenced by the distances involved and the limited transportation choices available. The score reflects a moderate level of healthcare accessibility, with areas for improvement in public transit and the availability of specialized medical services within closer proximity.

Driving to healthcare facilities is the primary mode of transportation for most residents in 15733. The nearest hospitals, such as Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC) in Indiana, PA, are accessible via major roadways. Traveling to IRMC involves navigating **US Route 119** and **State Route 286**. The drive typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Other healthcare providers, including primary care physicians and specialists, are also located in Indiana, requiring similar travel times.

Further afield, the city of Pittsburgh, PA, offers a wider array of specialized medical services. However, the commute to Pittsburgh is significantly longer. The journey involves traveling on **US Route 22**, which eventually merges onto the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76)**. This trip can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and the specific destination within Pittsburgh. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier for those requiring frequent specialist appointments or emergency care.

Public transportation options within 15733 are limited. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides bus service in the region. However, the routes and schedules are infrequent, and service to De Lancey itself may be limited. Residents need to consult the ICTA website for specific route information and schedules. The ICTA buses may have ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as ramps and designated seating, but the limited frequency of service can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in 15733 is another factor to consider. While these services are available, their presence may be limited compared to more urban areas. Ride availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Residents should plan accordingly and potentially schedule rides in advance to ensure timely access to healthcare.

Medical transport services are available for residents of 15733. Ambulance services are provided by local emergency medical services (EMS) providers. Additionally, non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, such as those offered by companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) or LogistiCare, are available for scheduled appointments. These services typically require advance booking and may have eligibility requirements, such as Medicaid or other insurance coverage.

The overall health score for 15733 reflects the balance of these factors. The primary reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, coupled with longer drive times to access certain healthcare services, presents a challenge. The limited public transportation options and the potential variability of ride-sharing services further contribute to the overall score. While medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for those with mobility limitations or other specific needs, their availability and accessibility are also factors.

For someone considering moving to De Lancey, understanding these transportation and healthcare access dynamics is essential. The ability to drive, or have reliable access to a vehicle, is critical for accessing routine and emergency medical care. Planning for potential delays due to traffic or weather conditions is also important.

The healthcare access score for 15733 is not intended to discourage moving to the area. Rather, it provides a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access. For individuals with chronic health conditions or those who require frequent medical attention, careful consideration of the transportation options and the proximity of healthcare facilities is crucial.

The health score is a dynamic measure, subject to change based on various factors. Improvements in public transportation, the expansion of ride-sharing services, or the establishment of additional healthcare facilities within closer proximity to De Lancey could positively impact the score. Conversely, any reduction in the availability of transportation services or the closure of local medical providers would negatively affect the score.

In conclusion, while De Lancey offers a peaceful and rural lifestyle, residents must navigate transportation challenges to access healthcare. The overall health score reflects a moderate level of healthcare accessibility, with reliance on personal vehicles and longer drive times to some facilities. Prospective residents should carefully consider these factors, weigh their individual healthcare needs, and plan accordingly to ensure they can access the medical care they require. Understanding the intricacies of transportation and healthcare access is a crucial step in making an informed decision about moving to De Lancey and maintaining overall health and well-being.