The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15923, Bolivar, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
36.32 percent of residents in 15923 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Excela Health Latrobe Hospital with a distance of 12.74 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 15923, Bolivar, Pennsylvania
Overall Health Score | 70 |
---|---|
People Score | 48 |
Provider Score | 79 |
Hospital Score | 58 |
Travel Score | 36 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 15923 | Bolivar | Pennsylvania |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.83 | 0.83 | 5.04 |
1 Car | 19.30 | 19.30 | 21.45 |
2 Cars | 39.27 | 39.27 | 41.29 |
3 or More Cars | 40.60 | 40.60 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 15923, Bolivar, Pennsylvania
## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15923
ZIP Code 15923, encompassing the charming borough of Bolivar, Pennsylvania, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, particularly when considering the crucial element of healthcare access. This analysis will delve into the transportation infrastructure available to residents, evaluating the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport provisions, all contributing to an "Overall Health Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical care. For individuals contemplating moving to Bolivar, understanding these factors is paramount for informed decision-making.
The very fabric of Bolivar's healthcare access is woven with the threads of its transportation network. The primary artery for vehicular travel is **U.S. Route 22**, a major east-west thoroughfare that dictates the flow of traffic towards larger healthcare hubs. Residents often rely on this highway for journeys to hospitals and specialized medical facilities. Supplementing Route 22 is **Pennsylvania Route 711**, a north-south route that connects Bolivar to neighboring communities and provides alternative access points to healthcare providers. Navigating these roads, however, can be influenced by seasonal weather conditions, especially during the harsh Pennsylvania winters, which can impact drive times and the reliability of transportation.
Drive times, a critical component of our "Overall Health Score," are significantly affected by the location of healthcare facilities relative to Bolivar. The nearest major hospital, **Excela Health Latrobe Hospital**, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Route 22, assuming favorable traffic conditions. This drive time is generally manageable for routine appointments and less urgent medical needs. However, for emergency situations, every minute counts.
Specialized care, such as that offered by **UPMC Altoona**, a regional medical center, requires a longer commute, typically around 1 hour and 15 minutes via Route 22 and the **William Penn Highway**. This longer travel time necessitates careful consideration for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent specialist visits. The distance also presents a challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, highlighting the importance of alternative transportation options.
Public transportation options in and around Bolivar are limited, which significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score" for those without access to a personal vehicle. The **Westmoreland Transit Authority** provides bus service in the broader region, but direct routes to healthcare facilities from Bolivar are scarce. The limited frequency and route coverage of public transit present a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents, particularly the elderly and individuals with disabilities.
The lack of robust public transit underscores the importance of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features. While the Westmoreland Transit Authority strives to provide accessible services, the infrequency of routes and the potential for lengthy travel times can pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. The "Overall Health Score" must reflect this reality, acknowledging the potential difficulties faced by those relying on public transit.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand in the area. Residents of Bolivar may experience longer wait times or higher fares compared to more densely populated areas, impacting the accessibility and affordability of healthcare transportation.
Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are available to residents of Bolivar. Companies like **STAT Medical Transport** and **Medicall Ambulance Service** offer non-emergency and emergency transportation to healthcare facilities. These services are crucial for individuals who are unable to drive themselves or utilize other transportation options. However, the cost of medical transport can be a significant financial burden, potentially impacting the overall affordability of healthcare.
The availability and affordability of medical transport services are critical components of the "Overall Health Score." While these services bridge the gap in transportation, their cost must be considered in the overall assessment of healthcare access.
The "Overall Health Score" for ZIP Code 15923 must also consider the impact of healthcare provider density. While Bolivar itself may not have a large concentration of medical facilities, the proximity to larger towns and cities like Latrobe and Johnstown provides access to a wider range of healthcare services. However, the reliance on transportation to reach these facilities remains a key factor in determining the overall ease of access.
Furthermore, the "Overall Health Score" should take into account the availability of telehealth services. Telemedicine can mitigate the challenges of transportation by providing access to healthcare services remotely. The availability of reliable internet access and the willingness of healthcare providers to offer telehealth appointments can significantly improve the "Overall Health Score" for residents of Bolivar.
In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 15923 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the proximity to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns offers some advantages, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose significant challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides alternative options, but their cost and availability must be considered. For individuals contemplating moving to Bolivar, a thorough understanding of these transportation dynamics is essential for assessing the overall accessibility of healthcare and making an informed decision. The "Overall Health Score" must reflect the realities of transportation limitations and the impact on the health and well-being of the community.
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