15840, Falls Creek, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15840, Falls Creek, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.29 percent of residents in 15840 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 16.25 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15840 (Falls Creek, PA)

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, particularly when considering a move to a new community. This assessment delves into the accessibility of medical services for residents of Falls Creek, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15840), evaluating the ease and efficiency of **transportation** options to various healthcare providers. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score," considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is essential for anyone contemplating **moving to Falls Creek**, ensuring they can readily access the medical care they need.

The primary consideration for healthcare access in Falls Creek is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town itself is relatively small, with limited public **transportation** options. The primary roadways facilitating travel are Pennsylvania Route 950, which runs directly through the town, and Pennsylvania Route 119, a major artery connecting Falls Creek to larger towns and cities. The distance to the nearest major hospitals and specialized medical facilities significantly impacts the overall score.

For routine care, residents can find family physicians and general practitioners within Falls Creek or in nearby communities like DuBois, approximately a 10-to-15-minute drive via PA-950 and US-219. This proximity contributes positively to the health score, offering convenient access for regular check-ups and minor medical needs. However, specialized care often necessitates travel to more distant locations.

The DuBois Regional Medical Center, located in DuBois, is a crucial healthcare hub for the region. Reaching this facility from Falls Creek typically involves a 15-to-20-minute drive, primarily utilizing US-219. This drive time is generally considered acceptable, especially in the absence of significant traffic congestion. The hospital offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized departments.

For more specialized care, such as advanced cardiology or oncology, residents may need to travel to larger medical centers in Johnstown or Pittsburgh. The drive to Johnstown, approximately 70 miles away, takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via I-80 East and US-219 South. The journey to Pittsburgh, roughly 100 miles, can take upwards of 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions, primarily using I-80 West and I-79 South. These longer travel times, while manageable, can pose challenges, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring frequent appointments.

Public **transportation** options in Falls Creek are limited, which negatively impacts the overall health score. The local bus service, operated by the DuBois Area Transportation Authority (DATA), offers routes within DuBois and surrounding areas. However, service to Falls Creek is infrequent and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Further, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. Information regarding specific route numbers and ADA features is essential for assessing the practicality of public transit for healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the DuBois area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability in Falls Creek itself may be limited, potentially leading to longer wait times or higher fares. The reliability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services significantly influence the health score, particularly for those who do not own a car or are unable to drive.

Medical transport services play a vital role in ensuring healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, including ambulance and wheelchair-accessible vans. These services are particularly crucial for patients needing transportation to and from appointments, dialysis, or other medical treatments. The availability and cost of these services directly impact the health score.

Assessing the overall health score requires considering the interplay of these factors. While Falls Creek offers convenient access to routine care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public **transportation** options present challenges. The drive times to specialized care facilities, particularly those in Johnstown and Pittsburgh, can be significant. The availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are crucial for those without access to a personal vehicle.

For someone considering **moving to Falls Creek**, a thorough evaluation of their healthcare needs is essential. Individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully consider the travel times and available **transportation** options. The availability of family support, the ability to drive, and the willingness to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services are all crucial factors.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Falls Creek, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15840), can be considered moderate. The town offers access to routine care within a reasonable distance. However, the limited public **transportation**, the potential for longer drive times to specialized facilities, and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services pose challenges. Residents should carefully assess their individual needs and circumstances to determine the suitability of Falls Creek for their healthcare requirements.

Ultimately, the health score is a dynamic assessment. It can be improved by increased public **transportation** options, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the availability of more comprehensive medical transport services. For those considering **moving to Falls Creek**, understanding these nuances is critical for making an informed decision about their healthcare access and overall well-being. The ease with which residents can reach the medical care they require is a cornerstone of a healthy community.