15846, Kersey, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15846, Kersey, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.96 percent of residents in 15846 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 4.99 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15846

The quaint community of Kersey, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 15846, presents a unique landscape for assessing its residents’ overall health score. This score, heavily influenced by **healthcare access**, hinges on the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach necessary medical services. A critical component of this assessment is the **transportation** infrastructure available, encompassing everything from personal vehicles to public transit and specialized medical transport. This analysis delves into the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape, providing a comprehensive overview for potential residents and current inhabitants alike.

The primary factor influencing the health score in Kersey is the distance to healthcare facilities. The closest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in neighboring towns, necessitating travel. Driving is the predominant mode of **transportation** for most residents. From Kersey, the most direct route to the Penn Highlands Elk hospital in St. Marys involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, covering roughly 12 miles. This journey predominantly utilizes Pennsylvania Route 255, a well-maintained state highway.

Alternatively, residents may need to travel to DuBois Regional Medical Center, which is approximately 30 miles away, a drive taking about 40-45 minutes. This route involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 255 south, merging onto Interstate 80 West, and then exiting onto US Route 219 North. These highways, while generally reliable, can experience traffic delays, especially during peak hours or adverse weather conditions, impacting **healthcare access** significantly.

For those without personal vehicles, public transit options are limited. The Elk County Council on the Arts and Transportation (ECCAT) provides a demand-response service, operating within Elk County. While this service is available, it requires advance booking and may involve longer travel times due to its flexible routing. ECCAT vehicles are equipped with ADA-compliant features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service and potential for multiple stops en route to a healthcare appointment can impact the overall health score.

Beyond public transit, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available, although their presence in Kersey is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty poses a significant challenge for residents who rely on these services for **transportation** to and from medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing services directly impacts the **healthcare access** score.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or medical needs, offer another avenue for **transportation**. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) to individuals requiring assistance. These services are often covered by insurance, making them a viable option for those who cannot drive or utilize other forms of **transportation**. However, scheduling and availability can still be a concern, and the cost of these services, even with insurance, can be a financial burden, indirectly affecting the overall health score.

The overall health score for Kersey is also influenced by the availability of urgent care facilities and primary care physicians within the immediate vicinity. While Kersey itself may have limited medical services, the proximity to St. Marys and DuBois provides residents with access to a range of healthcare providers. However, the travel time to these facilities remains a crucial factor. The more time spent traveling, the less time available for recovery, preventative care, and general well-being, all impacting the health score.

Furthermore, the health score considers the accessibility of specialty care. Residents requiring specialized medical attention, such as cardiology, oncology, or dermatology, often need to travel further afield, potentially to larger cities like Pittsburgh or State College. This extended travel time, combined with the cost of **transportation** and potential overnight stays, can significantly diminish the **healthcare access** score.

The economic factors associated with **transportation** also play a role. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and potential parking fees can add up, especially for individuals with chronic health conditions requiring frequent medical visits. These financial burdens can create barriers to **healthcare access**, particularly for low-income residents, further impacting their overall health.

The physical condition of the roads and highways is another important consideration. While Pennsylvania Route 255 is generally well-maintained, winter weather can pose significant challenges, leading to road closures or hazardous driving conditions. This can disrupt access to healthcare facilities and impact the overall health score.

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 reliable internet access, which may be limited in some areas of Kersey. Furthermore, not all medical conditions are suitable for telehealth consultations, requiring in-person appointments.

The overall health score for Kersey, PA (15846) is therefore a complex calculation. While the community benefits from its proximity to neighboring towns with healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for travel delays all contribute to a moderate score. Factors such as the availability of ride-sharing, medical transport services, and telehealth options help to improve the score, but they are not sufficient to completely overcome the challenges of **transportation** and **healthcare access**.

For individuals **moving to Kersey**, a thorough understanding of the **transportation** landscape is essential. Prospective residents should consider their individual healthcare needs, their ability to drive, and the availability of alternative **transportation** options. Careful planning and proactive measures, such as establishing relationships with local healthcare providers and familiarizing themselves with the available services, can help to mitigate the challenges of **healthcare access** and contribute to a healthier lifestyle in this charming rural community. The health score is a dynamic entity, constantly evolving with advancements in **transportation** and healthcare delivery, but the core challenge remains: ensuring that residents can readily and reliably access the care they need.