15739, Ernest, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15739, Ernest, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.82 percent of residents in 15739 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 21.40 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15739

Ernest, Pennsylvania, nestled in ZIP Code 15739, presents a unique landscape when assessing overall health, particularly concerning healthcare access. The community's health is inextricably linked to its ability to reach medical facilities, a factor significantly influenced by the available transportation options. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" by examining the commute to healthcare, encompassing drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options.

The score will consider the practicality and efficiency of each mode of transportation, highlighting potential barriers and offering a comprehensive understanding of the community's healthcare accessibility. The goal is to paint a vivid picture of the transportation landscape and its impact on the health and well-being of Ernest residents.

The foundation of healthcare access in Ernest rests on the road network. Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for most residents. The main arteries, including **US Route 119** and **State Route 286**, are critical for reaching healthcare facilities. These roads, however, can be subject to traffic, especially during peak hours or adverse weather conditions, which can significantly extend commute times.

For instance, the drive to Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), a primary healthcare provider, typically takes around 20-30 minutes under normal conditions. This drive involves navigating **US Route 119** south, and then utilizing local roads to access the hospital. Similarly, reaching specialized clinics or hospitals in nearby towns like Blairsville or Johnstown can involve longer drives, potentially exceeding an hour, depending on the destination and traffic conditions.

The condition of the roads also plays a crucial role. Potholes, inadequate lighting, and lack of sidewalks can create safety hazards, especially for elderly residents or those with mobility challenges. The availability of parking at healthcare facilities is another consideration. Insufficient parking can add to the stress of a medical appointment, potentially delaying access to care.

Public transit, while present, offers a limited scope in Ernest and the surrounding areas. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides bus services, but the routes and schedules are not designed to specifically prioritize healthcare access. Buses typically operate on fixed routes with limited frequency, which may not align with the appointment times or the needs of individuals with urgent medical conditions.

The ICTA buses generally do not offer direct routes to all healthcare facilities. Residents may need to transfer between buses, adding to the travel time and complexity. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses, equipped with ramps and lifts, is crucial for individuals with disabilities. The reliability of these features and the availability of trained personnel to assist passengers are essential factors in assessing the accessibility of public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. However, their availability in Ernest and the surrounding areas is limited. Ride-sharing services may not be readily available at all times, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes or frequent medical appointments.

The presence of medical transport services is another crucial element. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, providing rapid transport to the nearest hospital. However, the availability of non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) is also important. NEMT services cater to individuals who require transportation to medical appointments but do not need an ambulance.

Several medical transport companies may operate in the area, offering services such as wheelchair-accessible vans and stretcher transport. However, the availability, cost, and insurance coverage of these services can vary. The process of booking and scheduling medical transportation can also be complex, requiring coordination between the patient, the healthcare provider, and the transportation company.

To calculate the "Overall Health Score," we consider several factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities are a primary consideration. Longer drive times increase the risk of delayed care, particularly in emergency situations. The availability and reliability of public transit are also assessed. Limited public transit options can restrict access to healthcare, especially for individuals without personal vehicles.

The presence and affordability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options are also evaluated. The availability of these services can significantly improve healthcare access, especially for those with mobility challenges or limited transportation options. The overall score also considers the condition of roads, the availability of parking, and the presence of ADA-compliant transportation options.

Based on these factors, the "Overall Health Score" for commute to healthcare in ZIP Code 15739 is moderate. While the road network provides access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options is limited, potentially creating barriers for some residents.

The score could be improved by enhancing public transit services, expanding ride-sharing availability, and increasing the availability of affordable medical transport options. Improving road conditions, ensuring adequate parking at healthcare facilities, and promoting awareness of available transportation resources are also crucial steps.

For individuals considering moving to Ernest, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is essential. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility challenges may face significant barriers to accessing healthcare. The availability of reliable transportation options is a critical factor in maintaining overall health and well-being.

The community can actively improve its "Overall Health Score" by advocating for better transportation infrastructure, promoting accessible healthcare services, and supporting initiatives that enhance the mobility of all residents. The health of Ernest is directly tied to its ability to connect its residents with the care they need.