15863, Stump Creek, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15863, Stump Creek, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.70 percent of residents in 15863 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 31.57 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15863 (Stump Creek, PA)

This report assesses the overall health score for residents of Stump Creek, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15863), specifically focusing on **healthcare access** through various **transportation** options. The analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive understanding of the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. This information is crucial for anyone **moving to Stump Creek** or currently residing there, as it directly impacts their ability to maintain good health.

Stump Creek, nestled in the heart of Clearfield County, presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. Its rural location, while offering scenic beauty and a slower pace of life, necessitates careful consideration of how residents can reach medical facilities. The availability and efficiency of **transportation** options are paramount.

**Drive Times: The Primary Route**

For many, the automobile remains the primary mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare. From Stump Creek, the most direct route to larger medical centers involves utilizing Pennsylvania Route 219. This highway, a vital artery for the region, provides relatively quick access to DuBois, a major hub for medical services. The drive time to Penn Highlands DuBois, a prominent hospital, typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Stump Creek.

However, the drive can be impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months when snow and ice can significantly increase travel times and pose safety hazards. Other healthcare facilities, such as smaller clinics and specialist offices, are scattered throughout the surrounding areas, potentially requiring longer travel times along secondary roads. These roads, including local routes like Stump Creek Road and Luthersburg Road, may be less well-maintained and subject to delays.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transit options in Stump Creek and the surrounding areas are limited. The Clearfield County Area Agency on Aging (CCAAA) operates a demand-response transit system, offering transportation to medical appointments for eligible individuals. This service, while valuable, requires advance booking and may have limited operating hours. It is essential for residents to contact the CCAAA to understand eligibility requirements, scheduling procedures, and potential wait times.

The availability of public transit for general healthcare access is severely restricted. There are no regularly scheduled bus routes that directly serve Stump Creek. This lack of readily available public **transportation** presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or are unable to afford the costs associated with private **transportation**. Furthermore, the absence of readily accessible public transit can isolate elderly residents and those with disabilities, limiting their ability to maintain their health and well-being.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Mixed Bag**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the DuBois area, but their presence in Stump Creek is sporadic. The availability of these services can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments is therefore not always reliable, and residents should consider the potential for delays or cancellations.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedStar Ambulance and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical **transportation** to and from healthcare appointments. These services are particularly beneficial for individuals who require assistance with mobility or who have medical conditions that necessitate specialized care during **transportation**. However, these services can be costly, and it is crucial for residents to inquire about insurance coverage and payment options.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public **transportation** services and facilities are accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, the limited public transit options in Stump Creek raise concerns about ADA compliance. The CCAAA transit system is required to provide accessible vehicles, but the demand-response nature of the service may require advanced planning and booking to ensure availability.

The accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves is also a critical factor. All healthcare providers are required to comply with ADA regulations, ensuring that their facilities are accessible to individuals with mobility impairments. However, residents should verify the accessibility of specific facilities, including parking, entrances, waiting areas, and examination rooms, before scheduling appointments.

**Overall Health Score: A Complex Picture**

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Stump Creek (ZIP code 15863) is moderate, with significant challenges. While driving offers relatively quick access to medical facilities in DuBois, the reliance on personal vehicles creates barriers for those without access to a car. The limited public transit options, coupled with the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services, further exacerbate these challenges.

The cost and availability of medical transport services, while providing a valuable solution for some, can be a financial burden. The need for advanced planning and the potential for delays in all modes of **transportation** highlight the complexities of accessing healthcare in this rural community.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the overall health score, several initiatives could be implemented. Expanding the availability of public transit, potentially through partnerships with neighboring counties or the establishment of a dedicated bus route, would significantly improve **healthcare access** for all residents. Promoting the use of telehealth services, where appropriate, could reduce the need for in-person visits.

Enhancing the availability and affordability of medical transport services would also be beneficial. Furthermore, community outreach programs to educate residents about available resources, including the CCAAA transit system and local ambulance services, are vital. Finally, ongoing efforts to maintain and improve the condition of local roads, particularly during winter months, are crucial to ensure safe and reliable **transportation**.

**Conclusion**

For anyone **moving to Stump Creek**, understanding the **transportation** landscape is critical. While the community offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the challenges associated with accessing healthcare must be carefully considered. Residents must proactively plan their **transportation** to medical appointments, exploring all available options and considering the potential for delays. By recognizing these challenges and working towards solutions, the community can strive to improve the overall health score and ensure that all residents have equitable **healthcare access**.