15909, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15909, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.07 percent of residents in 15909 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 5.81 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 15909

This analysis assesses the overall health score for residents of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 15909, focusing on the crucial aspect of *healthcare access* through various *transportation* options. Understanding the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is paramount to evaluating their overall well-being. This write-up delves into the realities of navigating Johnstown's terrain, examining drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking medical attention.

The foundation of healthcare access in 15909 begins with the automobile. Driving remains the most prevalent method of reaching medical appointments. The primary artery serving the area is Route 219, a major north-south thoroughfare. Residents in the eastern parts of the zip code, near neighborhoods like Moxham and Prospect, can typically reach Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, the largest hospital in Johnstown, in under 10 minutes. This short drive is a significant advantage, especially during emergencies.

Traveling from the western sections, such as Coopersdale, might extend the drive to 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic flow. Route 56, connecting Johnstown to Ebensburg, provides another route, but it can experience congestion during peak hours. Other important roads include Broad Street, Main Street, and Scalp Avenue, which provide internal connectivity within the city and access to smaller clinics and specialist offices. These routes are generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Public transit, while present, offers a less convenient option for many. The Greater Johnstown School District operates a bus system, the Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA). Several routes traverse 15909, including routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. These routes provide service to major medical facilities, including Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center and UPMC Altoona, a regional hospital located outside of Johnstown. However, the frequency of these buses can be limited, with some routes running only hourly or less frequently.

Furthermore, the CCTA’s ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor. All buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and ramps, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can utilize the system. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall travel time, which can be significantly longer than driving, may present obstacles for some. For those *moving to Johnstown*, understanding the limitations of public transit is essential.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Johnstown, offering another *transportation* alternative. Their presence provides on-demand access to medical appointments, particularly for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, and wait times may be longer than in larger metropolitan areas. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can also increase the cost of these services, potentially making them unaffordable for some residents.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, play a vital role in *healthcare access*. Companies like MedStar and other local providers offer ambulance services for emergency situations and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for scheduled appointments. NEMT services are particularly crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, those who cannot drive, or those who require specialized medical equipment during transit. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific geographic limitations, so understanding the options and eligibility criteria is essential.

The overall health score for *healthcare access* in 15909 is moderate. The proximity of Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center and other medical facilities provides a significant advantage, especially for residents in the eastern sections of the zip code. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the fluctuating availability and cost of ride-sharing, and the need for pre-planning for medical transport create challenges.

The winter weather, with its potential for snow and ice, further complicates *transportation*, increasing travel times and the risk of accidents. This factor highlights the importance of preparedness, including having a reliable vehicle, understanding the CCTA’s winter service schedule, and knowing the contact information for medical transport providers. For those *moving to Johnstown*, the availability of healthcare providers and the ease of getting to them are critical considerations.

Improving the overall health score requires ongoing efforts to enhance *healthcare access*. This includes exploring opportunities to expand public transit routes and frequency, particularly to serve underserved areas and improve access to specialist offices. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as better sidewalks and crosswalks, can enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility, making it easier for residents to reach medical facilities.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of available resources, such as ride-sharing and medical transport services, is crucial. Educating residents about eligibility criteria for NEMT and providing information on how to book these services can significantly improve *healthcare access* for vulnerable populations. Collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations is essential to address the challenges and create a healthier community.

Ultimately, the health score reflects the complex interplay of *transportation* options, geographic location, and individual needs. While 15909 offers reasonable *healthcare access* for many, ongoing efforts to improve public transit, promote ride-sharing, and support medical transport services are essential to ensure that all residents can receive the medical care they need, regardless of their circumstances. Understanding the intricacies of navigating Johnstown’s roads and transit systems is vital for anyone considering *moving to Johnstown* and prioritizing their health.