15904, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15904, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.34 percent of residents in 15904 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 3.15 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15904

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 15904, necessitates a deep dive into the crucial intersection of transportation and healthcare access. This analysis considers the availability, efficiency, and accessibility of various transportation options for reaching medical facilities, directly impacting the well-being of the community. Prospective residents, considering moving to Johnstown, should find this assessment invaluable.

The cornerstone of this evaluation rests on the practicalities of commuting. The primary roadways serving 15904 are the US-219, the major north-south artery, and the US-22, providing east-west connectivity. These highways, along with key local roads like Broad Street, Scalp Avenue, and Eisenhower Boulevard, form the circulatory system of the area, dictating drive times to hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical services.

Drive times, of course, are subject to traffic conditions, which can fluctuate based on the time of day, weather, and special events. However, generally, reaching the main healthcare providers in the area, such as Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center and UPMC Altoona, typically involves a drive time ranging from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the destination and the specific route taken. These times can be extended during peak commuting hours, especially along US-219.

Public transportation, a vital component of healthcare access, presents a more complex picture. The Johnstown Transit System (JTS) operates bus routes throughout the city and surrounding areas. While the JTS provides a crucial service, the frequency of routes and the geographic coverage are limited. The routes, while serving key areas, may not provide direct access to all healthcare facilities, necessitating transfers and potentially extending travel times.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. The JTS strives to adhere to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines, with accessible buses and designated stops. However, the hilly terrain of Johnstown and the potential for long walking distances from bus stops to medical facilities can pose challenges for some individuals, impacting their healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing travel times compared to public transit, especially for those living in areas with limited bus service. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing can vary, particularly during peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The financial burden of frequent ride-sharing trips could also be a significant barrier for some individuals.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or specialized transport providers, are crucial for patients who require assistance with mobility or have medical conditions that necessitate specialized care during transport. These services are often reserved for patients with specific needs, and may not be the first choice for general healthcare access.

The overall health score for 15904, therefore, is a composite of these factors. The availability of multiple transportation options, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, suggests a moderate level of healthcare access. However, the efficiency of these options, particularly drive times, route frequency, and the accessibility of public transit, can significantly impact the overall score.

For individuals reliant on public transportation, the limited route coverage and potential for extended travel times to healthcare facilities could pose a significant challenge, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments. The financial burden of ride-sharing services could also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes.

The physical environment of Johnstown, with its hilly terrain and potential for inclement weather, can also influence the overall health score. Walking distances from bus stops to medical facilities can be challenging for some individuals, and winter weather conditions can further complicate travel.

The location of healthcare facilities within the community also plays a role. The concentration of hospitals and clinics in specific areas may necessitate longer travel times for residents living in more remote parts of the ZIP code. This geographic disparity can create inequities in healthcare access, particularly for those without reliable access to private transportation.

The availability of specialized medical services, such as mental health clinics, rehabilitation centers, and specialized physician practices, also influences the overall health score. The need to travel longer distances to access these services can increase travel times and add to the overall burden of healthcare access.

The affordability of healthcare services, including the cost of transportation, is another crucial consideration. The cost of gas, public transit fares, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport services can significantly impact the ability of residents to access necessary medical care. This financial burden can be particularly challenging for low-income individuals and families.

The overall health score for 15904, therefore, is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that reflects the interplay of multiple factors, including transportation options, drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, medical transport services, geographic location of healthcare facilities, affordability, and the physical environment.

Ultimately, improving the overall health score for residents of 15904 requires a multifaceted approach. This includes strengthening the public transportation network, improving the accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities, exploring options to subsidize ride-sharing services for low-income residents, and promoting the development of healthcare facilities in underserved areas. Such improvements would greatly benefit those considering moving to Johnstown.

Furthermore, ongoing efforts to address the social determinants of health, such as poverty, food insecurity, and lack of access to safe housing, are essential for improving the overall health of the community. By addressing these underlying issues, the community can create a more equitable and supportive environment for all residents, ensuring that they have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives.