15943, Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15943, Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.42 percent of residents in 15943 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 12.21 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15943 (Nanty Glo, PA)

The pursuit of optimal health is inextricably linked to the ease with which individuals can access necessary medical services. In the rural community of Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15943), this accessibility hinges on the availability and efficiency of *transportation* options. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, evaluating the landscape of *healthcare access* within and around Nanty Glo, specifically considering the challenges and opportunities presented by its geographical context. This information is particularly relevant for anyone *moving to Nanty Glo* and seeking a clear understanding of their healthcare options.

Nanty Glo, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique set of challenges. The town’s relative isolation means residents often rely on personal vehicles for *transportation*. The primary routes connecting Nanty Glo to healthcare facilities are Pennsylvania Route 53 (PA-53) and Pennsylvania Route 271 (PA-271). These two-lane highways, while scenic, can be subject to delays due to weather conditions, particularly during the harsh winter months. The drive to the closest hospital, UPMC Altoona, is approximately 30 miles, translating to a drive time of roughly 45 minutes to an hour under ideal conditions.

The road network further complicates matters. PA-53 and PA-271 are the main arteries, and while generally well-maintained, they are not immune to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. The winding nature of these roads also adds to the travel time. Residents needing specialized care may face even longer commutes, potentially traveling to Johnstown or even Pittsburgh, significantly increasing the time commitment and the potential for stress.

Public *transportation* options in Nanty Glo are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides some bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and they often do not directly serve medical facilities outside of Johnstown. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a positive aspect, but the infrequency of service and the limited coverage area significantly impact *healthcare access* for those without personal vehicles. This scarcity of public transit is a significant factor in the overall health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. The availability of drivers can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for those with limited financial resources, further impacting their ability to access healthcare.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare provide non-emergency medical *transportation* for Medicaid and Medicare recipients. These services offer door-to-door assistance, which can be particularly helpful for individuals with mobility issues or those who lack personal *transportation*. However, the availability of these services can be limited, and scheduling appointments often requires advance notice.

The overall health score for *healthcare access* in Nanty Glo, ZIP code 15943, is moderately impacted by the challenges inherent in its geographical location and the limitations of its *transportation* infrastructure. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers for many residents. While medical *transportation* services offer a valuable alternative, their availability is not always guaranteed.

The implications of these *transportation* challenges extend beyond the mere inconvenience of travel. Delayed access to medical care can lead to poorer health outcomes, particularly for those with chronic conditions or those requiring urgent medical attention. The stress and financial burden associated with long commutes can also negatively impact mental and physical well-being.

For individuals *moving to Nanty Glo*, a thorough understanding of the *transportation* landscape is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully consider their healthcare needs and assess their ability to navigate the existing *transportation* options. This includes evaluating the practicality of driving to medical appointments, exploring the feasibility of public *transportation* (albeit limited), and investigating the availability of ride-sharing or medical *transportation* services.

The community could benefit from improvements in *healthcare access*. Increased investment in public *transportation*, including expanded routes and more frequent schedules, would significantly improve *healthcare access* for all residents. Collaboration between local healthcare providers and *transportation* services could streamline the process of scheduling and coordinating medical appointments.

Furthermore, the promotion of telehealth services could help bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers, particularly for routine check-ups and consultations. This could reduce the need for travel and improve *healthcare access*, especially for those with limited *transportation* options.

In conclusion, while Nanty Glo offers a close-knit community and a peaceful lifestyle, the *transportation* infrastructure presents significant challenges to *healthcare access*. The overall health score is negatively impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public *transportation*, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services. For anyone *moving to Nanty Glo*, a proactive approach to understanding and navigating the existing *transportation* landscape is essential to ensure timely and reliable access to healthcare. Addressing these *transportation* challenges through strategic investments and innovative solutions is critical to improving the overall health and well-being of the Nanty Glo community.