15745, Heilwood, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15745, Heilwood, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.85 percent of residents in 15745 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Miners Medical Center with a distance of 11.52 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15745 (Heilwood, PA)

The pursuit of optimal health is a journey, and the ease with which one can access healthcare services is a critical element of that journey. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 15745, focusing specifically on the accessibility of healthcare facilities. We will examine the various transportation options available, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, evaluating their efficiency, reliability, and the overall impact on the health and well-being of the community. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Heilwood, PA, and seeking to understand the local landscape of healthcare access.

The foundation of healthcare access in Heilwood, and indeed much of rural Pennsylvania, is the personal vehicle. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are the major roadways. Route 219, a significant north-south thoroughfare, provides access to hospitals and medical centers in nearby towns like Ebensburg and Johnstown. Route 403, another key route, offers a more direct path to facilities in the same areas. These highways, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to weather conditions, especially during the harsh Pennsylvania winters, or occasional traffic congestion.

The drive times to healthcare facilities from Heilwood vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. A trip to the Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, for example, typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes, covering approximately 25 miles. Accessing the UPMC Altoona hospital, a more distant option, could require a drive of over an hour. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities in Ebensburg and surrounding communities offer closer alternatives, with drive times generally ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. These estimations are based on ideal conditions, and residents must factor in potential delays when planning medical appointments.

Public transportation options in the 15745 ZIP code are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus services within the county, but routes serving Heilwood and the immediate surrounding areas are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a significant consideration for individuals with disabilities. While the CCTA strives to provide accessible services, the limited route coverage can pose challenges for those relying on public transit for healthcare appointments. The lack of frequent service and the potential for lengthy travel times can significantly impact the overall health score for residents without access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability in Heilwood itself may be less consistent, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could make these services expensive. The reliability of ride-sharing, particularly for scheduled medical appointments, needs careful consideration. Furthermore, individuals with specific medical needs may require specialized transportation services.

Medical transport services, designed to cater to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs, offer a more tailored solution. Companies like MedStar and AMR (American Medical Response) provide ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services are often essential for individuals requiring stretcher transport or those unable to safely travel in a regular vehicle. While these options provide critical support, they can be costly and may require advance booking, which can impact the timeliness of healthcare access.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 15745 is moderate. While the availability of personal vehicles and the presence of major roadways offer reasonable access to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services create challenges. The lack of readily accessible healthcare options within Heilwood itself necessitates travel, adding time and potential stress to the process of seeking medical care.

For individuals considering moving to Heilwood, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Those reliant on public transit or ride-sharing should carefully evaluate the practicality of accessing their preferred healthcare providers. Individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs should research the availability and cost of medical transport services. The geographical realities of the area, coupled with the limited public transit options, place a premium on personal vehicle ownership and the ability to drive.

The health score is also affected by the availability of preventative care and routine medical services within the community. While major hospitals are accessible, the presence of local clinics, primary care physicians, and specialists is essential for maintaining good health. The proximity of these facilities, and the ease with which they can be accessed, significantly impacts the overall health score.

The availability of pharmacies and other healthcare-related businesses within the community is another critical factor. The ability to quickly and easily obtain medications, medical supplies, and other essential items is crucial for maintaining health and well-being. The presence of these services within Heilwood, or in nearby communities, enhances the overall health score by simplifying the process of managing healthcare needs.

The overall health score is not static; it can be improved through community initiatives and infrastructure improvements. Increased public transit frequency and route expansion, the development of ride-sharing partnerships, and the provision of financial assistance for medical transport services can all enhance healthcare access. The establishment of local clinics and the recruitment of primary care physicians and specialists would further improve the health score.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 15745 reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of major roadways provides reasonable access to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services create challenges. Residents of Heilwood must carefully consider their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities when evaluating the overall health score and planning their healthcare journey. The community's efforts to enhance public transit, promote ride-sharing, and support medical transport services can significantly improve the health score and contribute to the well-being of all residents.