15929, Dilltown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15929, Dilltown, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.92 percent of residents in 15929 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 11.75 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15929 (Dilltown, PA)

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 15929, Dilltown, Pennsylvania, hinges significantly on their ability to access healthcare. This assessment considers the multifaceted challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation infrastructure, influencing residents' ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency services. Evaluating these factors allows for a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare access landscape for individuals considering moving to Dilltown or currently residing within its boundaries.

The primary concern for Dilltown residents revolves around the inherent limitations of rural transportation. The area's geographic isolation necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for most healthcare-related trips. The primary roadways, including **Route 219**, **Route 56**, and various local roads, constitute the primary arteries for healthcare access. Drive times, however, can vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day.

For those seeking specialized care in Johnstown, approximately 20 miles east, the journey via **Route 219** and **Route 56** typically requires a 30- to 45-minute drive, contingent upon traffic conditions. This travel time can be further extended during inclement weather, a common occurrence in the region, potentially delaying or deterring necessary medical attention. The lack of alternative transportation options exacerbates this vulnerability.

Public transportation options are severely limited in Dilltown and the surrounding areas. The **Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA)** provides some services, but its routes are infrequent and primarily serve Johnstown. Public transit is not a viable option for most Dilltown residents due to infrequent schedules and limited route coverage, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations.

The CCTA operates several bus routes, but their frequency and reach are insufficient to provide reliable access to healthcare facilities for most Dilltown residents. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access for individuals with disabilities. While the CCTA strives to provide accessible services, the limited frequency of routes can still pose a significant challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area but may not be readily accessible in Dilltown itself. Even if available, the cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive for some residents, further restricting healthcare access. The availability of ride-sharing, even when present, is not a guaranteed solution for healthcare transportation needs.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical transport, offer an alternative for those who cannot drive or lack access to personal vehicles. Companies like **Medical Transportation Management (MTM)** and local ambulance services may provide transportation to medical appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited availability, especially for urgent needs.

The availability of medical transportation services is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access for Dilltown residents. These services can provide a lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to personal vehicles. However, the limited availability and potential for advance booking requirements can still pose challenges.

The proximity of healthcare facilities is another critical factor. While Johnstown offers a range of medical services, including hospitals, specialists, and urgent care centers, the distance and transportation challenges can create barriers. The availability of local pharmacies and primary care physicians within Dilltown or nearby towns is essential for routine healthcare needs.

The availability of local pharmacies and primary care physicians within Dilltown or nearby towns is crucial for routine healthcare needs. The absence of these essential services necessitates travel to Johnstown or other locations, further compounding transportation challenges. The presence of accessible, affordable healthcare options within the community is a significant determinant of the overall health score.

Emergency medical services are a critical component of healthcare access. The response time of ambulances and the availability of emergency medical facilities are paramount in life-threatening situations. The distance to the nearest hospital and the efficiency of emergency services are vital factors in assessing the overall health score for Dilltown residents.

The efficiency of emergency services and the availability of emergency medical facilities are paramount in life-threatening situations. The distance to the nearest hospital and the response time of ambulances are vital factors in assessing the overall health score for Dilltown residents. The ability to quickly access emergency care can be the difference between life and death.

The overall health score for ZIP Code 15929 is negatively impacted by the transportation limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential unavailability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to healthcare access. The distance to healthcare facilities, coupled with the challenges of travel, can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially impacting health outcomes.

The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. Addressing these transportation challenges is crucial for improving the overall health score for Dilltown residents. Improving healthcare access is a priority for anyone considering moving to Dilltown.

To improve the overall health score, several strategies could be implemented. Exploring partnerships with medical transportation providers to offer subsidized services for low-income residents could enhance access. Encouraging the expansion of telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, could reduce the need for in-person visits.

The expansion of telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, could reduce the need for in-person visits. The implementation of community-based transportation programs, such as volunteer driver networks or shared-ride services, could provide additional options for healthcare access. These initiatives could significantly improve the overall health score for Dilltown residents.

Furthermore, investing in infrastructure improvements, such as better road maintenance and potentially expanding public transportation routes, could ease transportation challenges. Promoting awareness of available transportation resources and providing assistance with accessing these services are also crucial steps.

Promoting awareness of available transportation resources and providing assistance with accessing these services are also crucial steps. Educating residents about their healthcare options and empowering them to navigate the healthcare system effectively can also improve the overall health score.

In conclusion, the overall health score for ZIP Code 15929 is moderate, primarily due to the challenges associated with healthcare access. The geographic isolation, limited transportation options, and distance to healthcare facilities create significant barriers for residents. Addressing these transportation challenges through a combination of improved infrastructure, expanded services, and community-based initiatives is essential to improve the overall health and well-being of Dilltown residents.