15856, Rockton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15856, Rockton, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.09 percent of residents in 15856 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 24.54 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Rockton, PA (ZIP Code 15856)

Assessing the overall health of a community extends far beyond individual well-being. It encompasses the accessibility of essential services, most notably healthcare. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape in Rockton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15856), evaluating its impact on residents' ability to access medical care. We'll analyze drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access, critical information for anyone considering moving to Rockton.

The very fabric of healthcare access in Rockton is interwoven with transportation. The ability to reach a doctor's office, hospital, or specialist directly influences health outcomes. A poorly connected community faces significant barriers, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a community with efficient and diverse transportation options fosters proactive healthcare management and promotes overall well-being.

Rockton, a small community nestled in Clearfield County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. Its rural setting necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. However, an understanding of the available options is crucial for informed decision-making, particularly for those with mobility limitations or those seeking to relocate to the area.

**Drive Times and Road Networks: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Rockton is the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this mode hinges on the condition of the road network and the distance to healthcare facilities. The primary arteries for travel are Interstate 80, a major east-west thoroughfare, and Pennsylvania Route 879, which provides north-south connectivity. Residents often utilize local roads like Rockton Mountain Road and the Curwensville-Grampian Highway to navigate within the area.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the specific location and the destination. The closest hospitals are located in Clearfield and DuBois. A trip to Penn Highlands Clearfield Hospital, located approximately 15 miles away, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Penn Highlands DuBois, situated about 25 miles from Rockton, requires a drive of approximately 35-45 minutes. Specialized clinics and physician offices located in these towns, and in nearby areas like Curwensville, will have similar travel times.

The condition of these roads is generally good, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times. Snow and ice can create hazardous driving conditions, potentially delaying or even preventing access to healthcare. Residents should be prepared for these seasonal challenges and plan accordingly, perhaps by investing in reliable winter tires and keeping a well-stocked emergency kit in their vehicles.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Valuable Option**

Public transportation options in Rockton are limited, but they offer a crucial lifeline for those without personal vehicles or who cannot drive. The Clearfield County Area Transportation Authority (CCATA) provides bus services within the county, including routes that connect to Clearfield and other surrounding towns. The CCATA's website and local information centers offer detailed route maps and schedules.

While specific routes serving Rockton may be limited, the CCATA offers a demand-response service, often referred to as "paratransit," for individuals with disabilities who cannot utilize the fixed-route bus system. This service, compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), provides door-to-door transportation, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access healthcare appointments. To utilize this service, residents must apply and be approved, demonstrating their inability to use the regular bus service.

The CCATA's fixed-route buses are generally equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps or lifts for wheelchair users and priority seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service and the geographic coverage of the routes may not fully meet the needs of all residents, especially those living in more remote areas of Rockton.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in Rockton is limited, particularly compared to urban areas. While these services may be available at certain times, their reliability and cost-effectiveness can be inconsistent. Residents should not rely solely on ride-sharing for healthcare access, especially for time-sensitive appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the Clearfield County area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance getting in and out of vehicles. They typically require advance booking and may involve specific eligibility requirements.

These medical transport services are a critical component of healthcare access for those who cannot drive or utilize public transit. They offer a vital link to essential medical care, ensuring that residents can attend appointments and receive necessary treatments. Researching and identifying reliable medical transport providers is essential for individuals who require this service.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis of Transportation Factors**

Considering all factors, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Rockton, PA (ZIP Code 15856) presents a mixed picture. While the road network provides relatively easy access via personal vehicles, the reliance on this mode creates challenges for those without access to a car. Limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further compound these challenges.

The presence of ADA-compliant paratransit services and medical transportation providers offers crucial support for individuals with disabilities and those needing assistance. However, the overall score is diminished by the limited frequency of public transit and the potential for seasonal disruptions due to weather conditions.

For individuals considering moving to Rockton, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is critical. Those who drive and have reliable vehicles will likely find healthcare access relatively straightforward. However, those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the availability and reliability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation options.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Rockton is therefore, moderate. The community benefits from a well-maintained road network, but the limited availability of alternative transportation options creates barriers for certain segments of the population. Continuous efforts to improve public transit, expand ride-sharing services, and ensure the availability of medical transportation options are crucial to enhancing the community's overall health and well-being. This is a crucial consideration for anyone making a decision about moving to Rockton.