15845, Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15845, Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.47 percent of residents in 15845 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 7.14 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Johnsonburg, PA (ZIP Code 15845)

This assessment provides an overall health score for residents of Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15845), specifically focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services. The score considers various modes of transportation, drive times, public transit options, and available medical transport services. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents' well-being and is particularly relevant for individuals considering **moving to Johnsonburg**. The goal is to paint a clear picture of **healthcare access** within the context of local **transportation** infrastructure.

Johnsonburg, nestled in Elk County, presents a unique challenge regarding healthcare access. Its rural setting necessitates reliance on personal vehicles and, to a lesser extent, public transportation for medical appointments. This evaluation aims to highlight both the strengths and weaknesses of the current system, offering insights for residents and potential newcomers alike.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare in Johnsonburg is the personal vehicle. The town's location influences drive times, with many medical facilities situated in neighboring towns and cities. The most direct route to the nearest significant healthcare hub, Penn Highlands Elk, in St. Marys, is via **Pennsylvania Route 219** and then **Pennsylvania Route 255**. The drive typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Accessing specialized care often necessitates longer journeys. For instance, a trip to UPMC Altoona, a regional medical center, involves a drive of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, primarily utilizing **Interstate 80** and **U.S. Route 220**. Similarly, reaching larger facilities in Pittsburgh, such as UPMC Presbyterian or Allegheny General Hospital, requires a drive of roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, mainly via **Interstate 80** and then **Interstate 79**. These extended travel times can be a significant barrier to care, especially for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

The condition of local roads is also a factor. While **Pennsylvania Route 219** and **Pennsylvania Route 255** are generally well-maintained, winter weather can pose challenges, potentially increasing travel times and the risk of accidents. Residents should be aware of road conditions and plan accordingly, especially during inclement weather.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Johnsonburg are limited. The Elk County Council on the Arts and Transportation (ECAT) provides demand-response transportation services within Elk County. While ECAT offers door-to-door service, it's essential to book rides in advance, and availability may be limited, especially during peak hours. ECAT vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The ECAT service is a crucial lifeline for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. However, the limited service area and potential for longer travel times due to multiple pick-ups and drop-offs should be considered. Residents relying on public transit for healthcare appointments need to plan meticulously, factoring in travel time and potential delays. Information regarding ECAT services, including route numbers, schedules, and ADA accessibility details, is readily available through the Elk County government website.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area but may have limited availability, especially during off-peak hours or in remote areas. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires careful planning and confirmation of service availability.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available. These services typically offer transportation to and from medical appointments, often including assistance with mobility. Companies like LifeFleet and MedStar Transportation provide medical transportation services in the region. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility challenges or those requiring specialized care. However, these services often come with a higher cost than personal vehicles or public transit, which is a critical consideration.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the assessment of transportation options and drive times, Johnsonburg receives a moderate overall health score regarding healthcare access. While the town offers some access to local healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the distance to specialized care centers pose challenges. The limited public transportation options and potential for delays further impact the score.

**Recommendations:**

* **Enhance Public Transportation:** Advocate for increased ECAT service frequency, expanded service areas, and improved coordination with medical facilities. This would improve healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles.
* **Promote Telehealth:** Encourage the adoption of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for follow-up care and consultations.
* **Support Medical Transport:** Increase awareness of medical transport services and provide financial assistance to eligible residents to ensure access to specialized care.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Advocate for the continued maintenance and improvement of local roads, especially **Pennsylvania Route 219** and **Pennsylvania Route 255**, to ensure safe and efficient travel.
* **Community Education:** Educate residents about available transportation options, healthcare resources, and the importance of proactive healthcare management.

**Conclusion:**

Access to healthcare in Johnsonburg is a multifaceted issue, significantly influenced by transportation infrastructure. While the town offers some healthcare access, the reliance on personal vehicles and the distance to specialized care centers can pose challenges. By addressing the recommendations outlined above, the community can work towards improving healthcare access for all residents, particularly those considering **moving to Johnsonburg** and seeking reliable **healthcare access** within the context of local **transportation** options. This proactive approach will contribute to a healthier and more vibrant community.