15930, Dunlo, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15930, Dunlo, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.78 percent of residents in 15930 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chan Soon- Shiong Medical Center At Windber with a distance of 7.25 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15930 (Dunlo, PA)

ZIP Code 15930, encompassing the small community of Dunlo, Pennsylvania, presents a unique challenge when considering its residents' overall health score. The very fabric of healthcare access in this rural area is interwoven with the complexities of transportation, a critical factor that significantly impacts residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. This analysis delves into the specifics of commuting to healthcare within and around Dunlo, evaluating drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities. For those considering moving to Dunlo, understanding these factors is paramount to ensuring their healthcare needs can be met effectively.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Dunlo is the reliance on personal vehicles. The landscape dictates that residents are highly dependent on driving to reach medical facilities. The nearest hospitals and specialty clinics are located in Johnstown, a city approximately 10-15 miles away, depending on the specific destination. The most direct route typically involves utilizing **US Route 219** and then transitioning onto local roads like **Scalp Avenue** or **Somerset Pike**. However, these roads can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times.

The condition of the roads themselves also plays a role. While **US Route 219** is generally well-maintained, local roads may suffer from potholes or other issues, particularly during the winter months. This can impact vehicle safety and potentially deter residents from seeking care during inclement weather. Furthermore, the lack of sidewalks and bike lanes along many of these routes makes it difficult for those without vehicles to access healthcare facilities.

Public transportation options in Dunlo and the surrounding areas are limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The **Johnstown Transit Authority (JTA)** provides bus service throughout the Johnstown area, but its routes and schedules are not designed to adequately serve Dunlo. There is no direct bus route that connects Dunlo to major healthcare providers. Residents would need to travel to Johnstown, potentially relying on a taxi or a ride-share service to reach their final destination.

Moreover, the JTA's services are not consistently ADA-compliant throughout their entire system. While some buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, the accessibility of all stops and routes may be limited. This presents a particular challenge for individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations, further exacerbating the difficulties in accessing healthcare. The infrequent service and the need for transfers add significant time and complexity to any healthcare-related journey, potentially discouraging residents from seeking care altogether.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, including Dunlo. However, their availability and affordability are variable. The rural nature of the area may mean longer wait times for a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-share services can also be a significant financial burden for some residents, potentially forcing them to forgo necessary medical appointments. The reliability of ride-share services is also a factor. The availability of drivers can fluctuate, and the potential for cancellations or delays can add stress and uncertainty to the process of accessing healthcare.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies operate in the Johnstown area, including both ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport providers. Ambulance services are reserved for emergency situations, while non-emergency transport is typically used for scheduled appointments. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, particularly for individuals with less urgent medical needs.

The cost of medical transportation services, including both ambulance and non-emergency options, can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for low-income individuals or those without adequate insurance coverage. The reimbursement rates from insurance companies may not fully cover the cost of these services, leaving patients with substantial out-of-pocket expenses. The financial burden can be particularly acute for those who require frequent medical appointments or ongoing treatment.

The overall health score for residents of Dunlo, Pennsylvania, is significantly impacted by the challenges associated with transportation to healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the variable availability and affordability of ride-share services, and the cost of medical transport services all contribute to a complex and often difficult situation. For those considering moving to Dunlo, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and their ability to navigate these challenges is essential to ensure they can maintain their health and well-being.

The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, potentially resulting in poorer health outcomes. Preventative care, such as regular check-ups and screenings, may be neglected due to the logistical difficulties of accessing healthcare facilities. This can lead to the delayed diagnosis of serious medical conditions, ultimately impacting the overall health and quality of life for residents of Dunlo.

Furthermore, the stress and anxiety associated with navigating the transportation challenges can also have a negative impact on mental health. The constant worry about how to get to appointments, the potential for delays or cancellations, and the financial burden of transportation costs can contribute to increased stress levels and a diminished sense of well-being. This underscores the importance of addressing the transportation barriers to healthcare access in Dunlo.

Improving healthcare access in Dunlo requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transit options, including extending existing routes or creating new ones that directly serve Dunlo and connect it to healthcare facilities, is crucial. Increasing the availability and affordability of ride-share services through subsidies or partnerships with local healthcare providers could also help. Exploring the feasibility of a community-based transportation program, perhaps utilizing volunteer drivers or a dedicated van service, could provide a valuable lifeline for residents.

Additionally, healthcare providers can play a role by offering telehealth services, which would allow patients to receive care remotely, reducing the need for travel. Providing transportation assistance to patients, such as offering vouchers or partnering with transportation providers, could also ease the burden. Educating residents about available transportation options and assisting them in navigating the healthcare system can empower them to access the care they need.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of Dunlo, Pennsylvania, is significantly impacted by the challenges of commuting to healthcare. The complex interplay of drive times, public transit limitations, ride-share availability, and medical transport options creates a situation that requires careful consideration. Addressing these transportation barriers through a combination of improved public transit, increased ride-share accessibility, community-based transportation programs, telehealth services, and patient assistance programs is critical to improving healthcare access and enhancing the overall health and well-being of the residents of Dunlo. For those contemplating a move to Dunlo, a clear understanding of these factors is paramount to making an informed decision and ensuring their healthcare needs are met effectively.