15772, Rossiter, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15772, Rossiter, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.60 percent of residents in 15772 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 6.98 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Rossiter, PA (ZIP Code 15772)

This report provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment for residents of Rossiter, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15772), focusing on the critical aspect of *healthcare access* through various *transportation* options. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the ease or difficulty individuals face when seeking medical attention. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone *moving to Rossiter* or currently residing there, as it directly impacts their overall well-being.

The score is not a static number but a composite evaluation, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of healthcare access. It considers the proximity of medical facilities, the efficiency of available transport, and the potential barriers faced by individuals with varying needs and circumstances. The ultimate goal is to illuminate the realities of accessing healthcare within this specific ZIP code, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

**Drive Time and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transport for most residents of Rossiter is likely the personal vehicle. The geographical layout of the area, with its rural character, necessitates reliance on roadways for reaching medical facilities. The major artery connecting Rossiter to larger towns and cities is **U.S. Route 119**, a vital thoroughfare for accessing healthcare. Drive times to hospitals and clinics along this route are critical.

For instance, reaching Indiana Regional Medical Center in Indiana, PA, a significant healthcare provider, typically involves a drive of approximately 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Rossiter. This time frame places Rossiter in a favorable position compared to more remote areas. However, road conditions, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact these drive times, potentially delaying access to urgent care.

Smaller roads, such as **State Route 403** and various local roads, provide alternative routes, but they often involve slower speeds and may be less well-maintained. These routes are often used to reach smaller clinics or specialized practices located in nearby communities. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can pose a significant challenge for those seeking healthcare.

**Public Transit Availability:**

Public transit options in Rossiter and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary provider is the Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA). ICTA offers bus services, but their routes and schedules may not be ideal for all healthcare needs. The frequency of service, especially on weekends and evenings, could be a limiting factor for those needing non-emergency medical care.

While ICTA operates buses that may serve some areas near Rossiter, direct routes to major healthcare facilities are not guaranteed. Individuals relying on public transit might need to utilize multiple bus transfers, increasing travel time and potentially adding to the stress of seeking medical care. The accessibility of ICTA buses for individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair access and other ADA-compliant features, is crucial for ensuring equitable access to healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Rossiter is variable. While these services are increasingly prevalent in urban areas, their presence in rural communities can be inconsistent. Availability often depends on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for scheduled appointments may require advance booking and flexibility.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with mobility limitations or requiring specialized assistance, are available in the area. Companies such as MedExpress and local ambulance services offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services are essential for those who cannot drive or utilize public transit. However, costs associated with these services can be a barrier for some individuals.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The Overall Health Score for residents of Rossiter, PA (15772), is moderate. While the proximity to Indiana Regional Medical Center provides a reasonable drive time, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services present challenges. The availability of medical transport services mitigates some of these challenges, but the associated costs and potential scheduling complexities must be considered.

The score is influenced by several factors. The primary advantage is the relatively short drive time to a major hospital. However, the limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services introduce potential difficulties, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle or facing mobility limitations. The lack of readily available public transit, especially for those without access to a vehicle, could create barriers to accessing routine care, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.

The overall score reflects a community with reasonable healthcare access but room for improvement. Investing in improved public transit options, expanding ride-sharing services, and ensuring the affordability of medical transport services would significantly enhance the Overall Health Score for Rossiter residents. Furthermore, promoting awareness of available resources and providing assistance with transportation arrangements could improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the Overall Health Score, several initiatives are recommended. Firstly, advocating for increased ICTA service frequency and route optimization, particularly to and from major healthcare facilities, is vital. Secondly, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to ensure consistent availability and potential subsidies for healthcare-related trips would be beneficial. Thirdly, community outreach programs to educate residents about medical transport options and financial assistance programs could help reduce barriers to care.

Finally, the ongoing maintenance and improvement of road infrastructure, including snow removal and pothole repair, are essential for ensuring safe and efficient access to healthcare, especially during adverse weather conditions. These improvements would enhance the quality of life for all Rossiter residents and support a healthier community.