15775, Spangler, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15775, Spangler, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.88 percent of residents in 15775 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 25.73 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15775 (Spangler, PA)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access within ZIP Code 15775, encompassing Spangler, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding areas. The score considers various transportation methods and their associated challenges and opportunities, ultimately reflecting the ease or difficulty residents face when seeking medical attention. This assessment is critical for anyone considering moving to Spangler, PA, as it directly impacts their overall well-being.

The foundation of our score considers the primary mode of transportation: the personal vehicle. Spangler's relative isolation dictates that driving is often the default. Primary routes include the **US-219** and **PA-36**, which provide crucial links to larger towns and cities where hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located. However, these roads can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Pennsylvania winters, and traffic, which can significantly extend travel times.

Drive times to healthcare facilities from Spangler vary depending on the destination and the time of day. The closest hospital, **Punxsutawney Area Hospital**, is approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive via **US-119** and **PA-36**, depending on traffic and road conditions. More specialized care might necessitate a drive to **UPMC Altoona**, roughly an hour and fifteen minutes via **US-219** and **I-99**. The longer the drive, the greater the risk of delays and the more stressful the experience, potentially deterring residents from seeking timely medical attention.

Public transportation options in the area are limited, which significantly impacts the overall health score. The **Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA)** provides some services, but coverage in Spangler and the surrounding rural areas is minimal. Routes, if available, are infrequent and may not directly connect to healthcare facilities. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor, but the limited scope of public transit severely restricts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and those without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the region, but their presence is less reliable in rural areas like Spangler compared to larger urban centers. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, potentially leading to significant wait times or even the inability to secure a ride. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for those with lower incomes, further hindering healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, such as **AMR (American Medical Response)** and local ambulance services, are crucial for emergencies and for transporting patients who require specialized medical attention. However, these services are typically reserved for urgent situations, and their availability and response times can be strained in rural areas with limited resources. The reliance on emergency services for routine medical appointments is not ideal and can place an additional burden on the healthcare system.

The overall health score is also affected by the availability of local healthcare providers. While Spangler may have some primary care physicians and clinics, access to specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, often requires travel to larger cities. This necessitates longer commutes, potentially increasing the time and effort required to receive specialized care. The lack of readily available specialists can negatively impact the overall health outcomes of residents.

The geographical distribution of healthcare facilities is another factor. The concentration of hospitals and specialists in urban areas means that residents of Spangler must travel to these locations, increasing transportation costs and time. This disparity in access to healthcare resources contributes to health inequities, where individuals in rural areas may face greater challenges in receiving timely and appropriate medical care.

The cost of transportation is a significant consideration. The expenses associated with driving, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees, can be a financial burden, especially for low-income individuals. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services can also be substantial, further exacerbating the financial barriers to healthcare access.

The physical and mental health impacts of long commutes should also be considered. Extended travel times can lead to increased stress, fatigue, and reduced time for other essential activities, such as exercise and social interaction. These factors can negatively impact overall health and well-being, particularly for individuals with chronic health conditions.

The availability of telehealth services can partially mitigate the challenges of transportation. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on factors such as internet access, digital literacy, and the type of medical care required.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 15775 is moderate, with areas of concern. While the presence of major highways like **US-219** and **PA-36** provides essential links to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit options, and the potential for long drive times create significant challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services is variable, and the cost of transportation can be a barrier for some residents.

The score is further impacted by the need to travel to larger cities for specialized care and the limited availability of local healthcare providers. Telehealth services can offer some relief, but their effectiveness is contingent on access and digital literacy.

For individuals considering moving to Spangler, PA, it is imperative to carefully assess their healthcare needs and the transportation options available. Proximity to family members, the presence of local community centers, and the availability of local support networks can mitigate some of the challenges associated with healthcare access.

The overall health score for 15775 is a reminder that healthcare access is not solely about the availability of medical facilities; it is also about the ability of individuals to reach those facilities in a timely and affordable manner. Improving public transportation, expanding telehealth services, and supporting local healthcare providers are essential steps toward enhancing healthcare access and improving the overall health and well-being of residents in Spangler and the surrounding areas.