15928, Davidsville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15928, Davidsville, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.92 percent of residents in 15928 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chan Soon- Shiong Medical Center At Windber with a distance of 4.70 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15928 (Davidsville, PA)

This assessment provides a comprehensive overview of healthcare access within ZIP Code 15928, Davidsville, Pennsylvania, focusing on transportation options and their impact on residents' overall health. Understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching medical facilities is crucial for informed decision-making, particularly for those **moving to Davidsville** and seeking to establish a life there. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, culminating in an "Overall Health Score" that reflects the accessibility of healthcare resources.

The landscape of healthcare access in Davidsville is shaped by its rural character and the surrounding topography. The primary challenge lies in the geographical distance to significant medical centers. While the community itself may offer some primary care options, specialized care and advanced medical services often necessitate travel to larger towns and cities. This reliance on transportation significantly influences the health and well-being of residents.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are the **Route 219** and **Route 56**. These highways serve as the main arteries connecting Davidsville to larger population centers like Johnstown, which is a major hub for healthcare services. The drive to Johnstown, approximately 20-25 miles, typically takes 30-45 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, this time can be considerably extended during peak hours, adverse weather, or due to accidents.

Smaller roads, such as **Lambertsville Road** and **Geistown Road**, provide alternative routes but are often winding and may have slower speed limits. These local roads can offer more direct access to some nearby clinics and urgent care facilities. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can also significantly impact travel times and safety. The accessibility of these roadways is a crucial factor in determining the overall health score.

**Public Transit:**

Public transportation options in Davidsville and the surrounding areas are limited. The **Johnstown Area Regional Transportation Authority (JARTA)** provides some bus services, but these routes are not extensive and may have limited frequency, especially on weekends and evenings. Ridership in rural areas is often low, and the routes reflect this.

The specific routes serving Davidsville are not readily available, but it is highly likely that they are infrequent and may not directly serve healthcare facilities. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. JARTA is required to adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, which mandate accessible buses. However, the limited routes and potential for long wait times can still pose challenges for those with mobility limitations. This is a significant factor in determining the overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in the Davidsville area, but their presence and availability can vary. The frequency of drivers and the potential for surge pricing, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather, are important considerations. Reliance on ride-sharing for healthcare access can be costly and unreliable, particularly for routine appointments.

Medical transport services are designed to address the needs of individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transportation. These services include non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services for emergencies. The availability of NEMT services, which often involve specialized vehicles and trained personnel, is crucial for individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions. The cost and availability of these services directly impact healthcare access.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands may serve the Davidsville area. These could include local ambulance services, private NEMT providers, and potentially, regional or national companies. It is essential to research the specific providers available in the area, their service areas, and their associated costs. The reliability and responsiveness of these services are critical, particularly in emergency situations.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

Considering the factors discussed, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 15928 is moderate to fair. While residents have access to roadways, the drive times to major healthcare facilities can be significant, especially during peak hours or adverse weather. The limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access.

For those **moving to Davidsville**, careful consideration should be given to their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. Individuals with chronic health conditions or mobility limitations may face significant challenges in accessing medical care. The availability and affordability of medical transport services become critical for these individuals.

The overall health score can be improved by:

* **Advocating for improved public transportation:** Increased frequency, expanded routes, and direct access to healthcare facilities would significantly improve healthcare access.
* **Promoting ride-sharing services:** Encouraging the presence of ride-sharing services and providing subsidies for low-income individuals could improve access.
* **Supporting medical transport services:** Ensuring the availability and affordability of NEMT and ambulance services is essential.
* **Exploring telehealth options:** Utilizing telehealth services for routine appointments and consultations can reduce the need for travel.

Ultimately, the Overall Health Score is a dynamic measure that can be influenced by individual circumstances, community initiatives, and policy decisions. Understanding the challenges and opportunities related to **transportation** and **healthcare access** is crucial for fostering a healthy and thriving community in Davidsville. The score reflects the importance of these factors for anyone **moving to Davidsville** and planning for their future healthcare needs.