15832, Driftwood, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15832, Driftwood, Pennsylvania is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.06 percent of residents in 15832 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bucktail Medical Center with a distance of 20.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15832 (Driftwood, PA)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 15832, focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access. It considers transportation options, drive times, public transit availability, and other relevant factors that influence a resident’s ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. Understanding these nuances is crucial for individuals and families considering moving to Driftwood, ensuring informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on accessible healthcare. In Driftwood, Pennsylvania, the challenge lies in its rural setting. Limited public transportation and vast distances to medical facilities can significantly impact healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles. This assessment delves into the specifics of navigating the region to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on overall health.

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of Driftwood are Pennsylvania Route 120 and Pennsylvania Route 555. Route 120, a two-lane highway, provides the main east-west connection, linking Driftwood to larger towns and cities. Route 555 offers a north-south route, though it is more winding and travels through more sparsely populated areas. These roads are often subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, potentially impacting travel times and access to care.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial component of this assessment. The closest hospital, Penn Highlands Elk, is located in St. Marys, approximately a 40-minute drive via Route 120. This drive, while manageable, can be significantly extended during inclement weather or peak traffic hours. Specialists and more comprehensive medical services might necessitate travel to larger cities like DuBois, a drive of approximately one hour via Route 120 and Interstate 80.

Public transportation options in Driftwood are extremely limited. The local transportation authority, the Cameron County Transit Authority, provides demand-response services. This means that residents must schedule rides in advance, which may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. These services may not be available on weekends or evenings, further restricting access. Information regarding ADA accessibility should be confirmed directly with the Cameron County Transit Authority.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are unlikely to be readily available in Driftwood. The sparse population and geographic isolation make it challenging for these services to establish a presence. Residents are, therefore, largely reliant on personal vehicles or pre-arranged transportation. This lack of readily available ride-sharing options further underscores the importance of personal vehicle ownership for healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, like ambulance services, are available. The Driftwood Volunteer Fire Company provides emergency medical services. However, reliance on emergency services should not be the only consideration. For non-emergency appointments and preventative care, alternative transportation options are essential. The availability and responsiveness of these services are critical in ensuring timely access to urgent medical attention.

The availability of primary care physicians and specialists within a reasonable distance is another crucial factor. While Driftwood itself may not have a wide range of medical specialists, residents can access a broader network of specialists in St. Marys, DuBois, and other surrounding towns. However, the travel time to these specialists must be factored into the overall health score. The absence of local specialists may necessitate longer travel times for specialized care.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Driftwood is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options and the distances to medical facilities. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of readily available ride-sharing services, and the limited public transit options contribute to a lower score. The lack of local specialists also increases travel times for specialized care.

For individuals considering moving to Driftwood, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is paramount. Owning a reliable vehicle is almost a necessity for accessing healthcare. Planning for potential delays due to weather conditions and traffic is also essential. Residents should also familiarize themselves with the local emergency medical services and the availability of medical transportation options.

The health of a community is directly linked to the ease with which its residents can access healthcare. In Driftwood, the challenges associated with transportation necessitate careful planning and proactive measures to ensure timely and appropriate medical care. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about moving to the area and maintaining a high quality of life.

The "Overall Health Score" for Driftwood's healthcare access is therefore moderate. While emergency services are available, and medical facilities are within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of public transportation, the absence of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles present significant barriers. This score emphasizes the need for careful consideration of transportation needs for anyone considering moving to Driftwood.

The long-term health of the community is intertwined with its ability to overcome these transportation challenges. Investing in improved public transit, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, and promoting community-based transportation solutions could significantly improve healthcare access for all residents. These improvements would not only enhance the "Overall Health Score" but also contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community.

The ability to navigate the transportation landscape and access healthcare is a fundamental aspect of well-being. For those considering moving to Driftwood, a thorough understanding of the transportation challenges and the available resources is critical. This detailed analysis provides a valuable framework for assessing the impact of transportation on healthcare access and making informed decisions about their health and future. The importance of healthcare access cannot be overstated, and it is a key factor in ensuring a thriving community.