15849, Penfield, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15849, Penfield, Pennsylvania is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.36 percent of residents in 15849 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 15.74 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15849

Welcome to Penfield, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 15849, a community nestled in the heart of Clearfield County. Assessing the overall health score for this area necessitates a deep dive into its healthcare access, primarily focusing on the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. This evaluation considers the availability of various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. Understanding these factors provides a comprehensive picture for individuals considering moving to Penfield and its surrounding areas.

The primary method of transportation in and around Penfield is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The region's infrastructure is largely designed around car travel, with a network of highways and roads connecting residents to essential services. The most crucial thoroughfare is **Pennsylvania Route 255**, which acts as the main artery through Penfield, connecting it to larger towns and healthcare providers. Driving times to healthcare facilities are therefore paramount.

For routine appointments and general care, residents can access the Penn Highlands Clearfield Hospital, located approximately 15 miles south of Penfield. The drive typically takes around 20-25 minutes via **Route 255** and then **Interstate 80 West**. This journey, while relatively short, can be affected by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, potentially increasing commute times.

Specialized care might necessitate travel to larger cities like DuBois or State College. The drive to DuBois, approximately 20 miles away, takes around 30-40 minutes, again primarily via **Route 255** and connecting roads. State College, home to the renowned Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, is a more significant journey, requiring approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours via **Route 255** to **Interstate 80 East** and then **US-322 East**. This longer commute highlights the importance of planning and considering potential delays.

Public transportation options in Penfield are limited, presenting a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. The Clearfield County Area Transportation Authority (CCATA) provides bus services throughout the county. However, these routes are infrequent and may not directly serve Penfield or offer convenient connections to healthcare facilities. The CCATA website does not list specific routes or schedules that directly serve Penfield, making it difficult to rely on public transit for healthcare access. The lack of readily available public transit creates a barrier for many residents, especially the elderly or those with disabilities.

The absence of robust public transit underscores the importance of considering ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features. While the CCATA aims to provide accessible services, the limited routes and infrequent schedules may not adequately accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. This aspect is critical when evaluating healthcare access for all residents.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Clearfield County area, offering an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a car. However, the availability of these services in Penfield and the surrounding rural areas may be limited, with potential wait times and higher fares compared to urban centers. This is another factor that should be considered when assessing the overall health score.

Medical transportation services are another crucial element of healthcare access. Several companies specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility issues, those requiring specialized equipment, or those who cannot drive themselves. While specific medical transport providers serving Penfield need further investigation, the availability of these services can significantly improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP code 15849 is moderately impacted by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, while common, presents challenges for those without access to a car. The limited public transportation options, coupled with the potential for longer travel times to specialized care facilities, can negatively affect healthcare access. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers offers some relief, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness require further evaluation.

The accessibility of healthcare is a critical factor for anyone considering moving to Penfield. The convenience and reliability of transportation directly impact the ability to receive timely medical care. The drive times to various healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport all contribute to the overall health score.

The overall health score in Penfield can be improved through several strategies. Enhancing public transportation options, particularly routes that directly connect Penfield to healthcare facilities, would significantly benefit residents. Promoting the availability and awareness of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers would also improve access. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road maintenance and winter weather preparedness, would minimize travel delays and enhance safety.

In conclusion, the overall health score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP code 15849 reflects a situation where healthcare access is largely dependent on personal vehicles. While the drive times to general care facilities are reasonable, the limited public transportation options and the potential for longer commutes to specialized care facilities present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers offers some solutions, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness require further consideration. Individuals considering moving to Penfield should carefully assess their transportation needs and the potential impact on their healthcare access. The community's commitment to improving transportation infrastructure and expanding healthcare access will ultimately determine the overall health score for its residents.