15738, Emeigh, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15738, Emeigh, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.85 percent of residents in 15738 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 21.70 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15738

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a critical component of overall well-being, and the ease with which residents can access medical services significantly impacts their quality of life. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 15738 (Emeigh, Pennsylvania), focusing specifically on the accessibility of healthcare facilities via various transportation methods. We will examine drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing/medical transport services to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access in this rural community.

The cornerstone of this evaluation is the time it takes to reach essential healthcare services. For residents of Emeigh, the primary routes to medical facilities involve travel by car. The most direct path to larger hospitals and specialist clinics often requires navigating Pennsylvania Route 219. This highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly in the vicinity of Ebensburg. Further travel may necessitate using U.S. Route 22, a major east-west artery, which can add considerable travel time, especially during inclement weather.

Smaller clinics and urgent care centers may be accessible via local roads such as Emeigh Road and other secondary routes. However, these roads can be winding and narrow, potentially increasing travel time and posing challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those driving in less-than-ideal conditions. The drive time to the closest major hospital, UPMC Altoona, can range from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic and the specific location within the ZIP code.

Public transportation options in Emeigh are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides some bus service within the county, but its routes are infrequent and may not directly serve Emeigh or provide convenient access to all healthcare facilities. Information regarding specific routes and schedules can be found on the CCTA website. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor for individuals with disabilities, and the CCTA strives to provide this service. However, the limited route coverage and frequency of service present significant hurdles for those relying on public transit to access healthcare.

The emergence of ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft has, in some areas, improved access to transportation. However, the availability of these services in rural areas like Emeigh is often limited. The presence of these services can be unpredictable, and wait times may be significantly longer than in more urban settings. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for individuals with limited incomes or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another avenue for healthcare access. Several companies operate in the region, including ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transport providers. These services are typically booked in advance and can be a reliable option for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to other forms of transportation. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and they may not be covered by all insurance plans.

The availability of healthcare facilities within the ZIP code itself is also a crucial factor. Emeigh, being a rural community, may have limited on-site medical services. Residents may need to travel to neighboring towns and cities to access a full range of healthcare options, including specialists, hospitals, and specialized treatments. This underscores the importance of reliable transportation options.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP code 15738 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the community benefits from the availability of private vehicles and access to major roadways, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation services present significant challenges. The distance to major healthcare facilities and the potential for lengthy travel times further compound these issues.

For those considering moving to Emeigh, understanding these transportation limitations is essential. Prospective residents should carefully assess their healthcare needs and their ability to navigate the transportation landscape. Individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should consider the potential challenges of accessing healthcare services.

The overall health score is therefore influenced by the need for strategic planning. Individuals should consider car maintenance, and carpooling with neighbors. Further, they should consider the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport.

The score also reflects the importance of community support. Neighbors can assist with transportation, and local organizations can advocate for improved healthcare access. The score is further impacted by the need for local healthcare providers. Expanding the availability of clinics, telehealth services, and mobile healthcare units within the ZIP code could significantly improve healthcare access for residents.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP code 15738 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, transportation limitations and the rural nature of the community create challenges. The score is influenced by the need for careful planning, community support, and potential improvements in local healthcare infrastructure. This comprehensive assessment provides valuable insights for residents, policymakers, and healthcare providers seeking to improve healthcare access and promote the overall health and well-being of the Emeigh community.