15942, Mineral Point, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15942, Mineral Point, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.78 percent of residents in 15942 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 7.86 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Mineral Point, PA (ZIP Code 15942)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Mineral Point, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15942) necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare. A crucial factor influencing this score is the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities. This write-up will examine the various transportation options available, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare access for those living in and *moving to Mineral Point*.

The geographical isolation of Mineral Point, nestled within the rolling hills of Cambria County, presents unique challenges to healthcare access. The town's location dictates that residents often rely on personal vehicles for transportation. Primary healthcare facilities are located in Johnstown, the county seat, approximately 10 miles east. This distance translates to a drive of roughly 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination.

The primary arteries connecting Mineral Point to Johnstown are **Route 56** and **Route 219**. Route 56, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides the most direct route. Drivers can expect a relatively smooth commute, though traffic congestion during peak hours, particularly near Johnstown, is a common occurrence. Route 219, a north-south highway, offers an alternative route, though it might add a few minutes to the journey depending on the specific location within Mineral Point.

Beyond the immediate vicinity, access to specialized medical care, such as hospitals and specialist clinics, necessitates longer travel times. The closest major hospital, UPMC Altoona, is approximately 45 miles away, translating to a drive of around an hour. This journey typically involves utilizing **Route 219** and then connecting to **Interstate 99**. While the interstate offers a faster commute, the distance and potential for inclement weather, especially during winter months, can significantly impact healthcare access.

Public transportation options within Mineral Point and the surrounding areas are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus service, but the routes and frequency are not extensive. Residents might find limited routes that connect Mineral Point to Johnstown. However, the frequency of these routes is often low, and the schedules may not align with the needs of individuals seeking medical appointments. Information about specific route numbers, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features for CCTA routes is crucial for residents. The availability of accessible buses, including ramps and designated seating, is critical for individuals with mobility impairments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, but their presence in Mineral Point is less consistent. The availability of drivers can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires careful planning and booking in advance to ensure timely arrival. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical visits.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer a valuable alternative, especially for those with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. Several medical transport providers operate in the Johnstown area, including those specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility challenges and ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. Researching the specific brands operating in the area, their service areas, and pricing is essential for residents.

The overall health score for Mineral Point residents is significantly impacted by the transportation infrastructure and availability of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit options, can create challenges for those without access to a car or those unable to drive. The distance to specialized medical facilities adds to the complexity.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation can mitigate some of these challenges, but their reliability and cost are important considerations. The lack of readily available public transit options, particularly for those with mobility impairments, further exacerbates the situation.

For individuals *moving to Mineral Point*, a thorough assessment of transportation options and healthcare access is crucial. Prospective residents should consider the availability of healthcare facilities, the drive times, and the feasibility of alternative transportation methods. This includes researching the specific routes and schedules of the CCTA, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the options for medical transportation.

The overall health score is not simply a reflection of the quality of medical care available, but also the ease with which individuals can access that care. In Mineral Point, the transportation landscape plays a pivotal role in shaping this score. Improving healthcare access requires a multi-faceted approach, including exploring opportunities to enhance public transit, expand ride-sharing services, and promote the availability of medical transportation.