15857, Saint Marys, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15857, Saint Marys, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

92.15 percent of residents in 15857 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 1.17 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Saint Marys, PA (ZIP Code 15857)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for residents of Saint Marys, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15857), focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services. A crucial element of overall health is the ease with which individuals can access medical care. This write-up meticulously examines transportation options, considering drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services, to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in this rural Pennsylvania community. The goal is to provide prospective residents, those *moving to Saint Marys*, and current inhabitants with a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access.

The health score is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, considering the various factors involved in *healthcare access*. The availability of healthcare providers, including physicians, specialists, and hospitals, is, of course, paramount. However, the ability to reach these providers efficiently and reliably is equally critical. This analysis prioritizes the *transportation* component, recognizing its profound impact on health outcomes.

Saint Marys, nestled in Elk County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding *healthcare access*. Its rural setting means that residents often rely on personal vehicles for transportation. Public transportation options are limited, and ride-sharing services may have restricted availability. These factors significantly influence the overall health score.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

The primary roads serving Saint Marys are crucial for healthcare access. Pennsylvania Route 255 (PA-255) is a vital artery, connecting the town to surrounding areas. Accessing healthcare facilities in Saint Marys itself is generally straightforward, with drive times to the local Penn Highlands Elk hospital being relatively short. However, specialized care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers in nearby cities.

Traveling to DuBois, approximately 30 miles south via PA-255 and Interstate 80 (I-80), is a common route for accessing specialized medical services. The drive typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Interstate 80 is a major east-west thoroughfare, offering relatively efficient travel, but it can experience heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours and in inclement weather.

Heading north towards Bradford, another potential destination for healthcare, involves traveling on PA-255 and then PA-46. This journey, covering roughly 35 miles, takes approximately an hour. The roads in this direction are often more winding and can be subject to seasonal weather-related delays.

Further afield, accessing larger medical centers in Pittsburgh, approximately 120 miles southwest, is a significant undertaking. This journey primarily involves Interstate 80 and Interstate 79 (I-79) and can take upwards of two to three hours, depending on traffic. While the interstates provide high-speed travel, the distance and potential for delays significantly impact healthcare access.

**Public Transportation Limitations**

Public transportation options in Saint Marys are limited. The Elk County Transit Authority (ECTA) provides some local bus services, but routes are primarily designed for local travel and may not directly serve healthcare facilities outside of Saint Marys. Schedules are often infrequent, and service may be unavailable during evenings and weekends.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. ECTA buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps or lifts for wheelchair users and designated seating. However, the limited route network and service frequency can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

The lack of robust public transportation options significantly impacts the overall health score. Residents without personal vehicles, or those unable to drive, face considerable barriers in accessing healthcare. This is particularly concerning for elderly individuals, those with disabilities, and low-income residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a presence in Saint Marys, though availability may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. Wait times can be longer, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand is possible. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments is, therefore, not always a reliable option.

Medical transportation services are available in the area, offering specialized transportation for individuals requiring assistance. These services typically cater to patients needing transport to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, or other healthcare-related destinations. They often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients.

The availability of medical transportation services is a positive factor in the overall health score. However, these services can be costly, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking. The reliance on these services further underscores the importance of robust transportation infrastructure and accessible public transit.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Considering the various factors, the overall health score for healthcare access in Saint Marys (ZIP code 15857) is moderate. The town benefits from the presence of a local hospital, Penn Highlands Elk, providing immediate medical care. However, the limited public transportation, reliance on personal vehicles, and the distance to specialized medical centers in larger cities present significant challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options partially mitigates these challenges. Still, their limitations in terms of cost, availability, and reliability impact the overall health score. The score is further affected by the rural setting and the potential for adverse weather conditions, which can disrupt travel and hinder healthcare access.

For individuals *moving to Saint Marys*, careful consideration of *transportation* needs is essential. Those who rely on public transit or have limited mobility should be aware of the challenges and explore alternative options, such as medical transportation services or arranging for assistance from family or friends.

The overall health score can be improved by strengthening public transportation infrastructure, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and expanding the network of medical transportation providers. These improvements would enhance *healthcare access* for all residents, leading to better health outcomes and a higher quality of life. Furthermore, encouraging the development of telehealth services can help bridge the gap in *healthcare access* and provide convenient options for routine check-ups and consultations.