15945, Parkhill, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15945, Parkhill, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.20 percent of residents in 15945 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 4.46 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in Parkhill (ZIP Code 15945)

The quest for optimal health is intrinsically linked to the ease with which one can access healthcare. In the charming borough of Parkhill, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15945), the tapestry of healthcare access is woven with threads of transportation, geographical constraints, and the availability of medical resources. This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Parkhill, considering various modes of **transportation** and their impact on **healthcare access**. This write-up is for those **moving to Parkhill** and seeking to understand the healthcare landscape.

Parkhill, nestled within Cambria County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing medical care. While the borough itself may offer limited services, the surrounding areas provide a broader spectrum of options. The success of navigating this landscape depends heavily on one's ability to traverse the roads, utilize public transit, or leverage alternative **transportation** solutions.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

The primary mode of **transportation** for many Parkhill residents is the personal vehicle. The most direct route to the major healthcare providers involves navigating the network of highways and roads. Driving to UPMC Altoona, a significant regional medical center, requires a journey of approximately 45 minutes, primarily via the US-22 E and US-219 S. The drive, while generally straightforward, can be subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours.

For those seeking care at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, the commute is shorter, around 15 minutes. This trip typically involves traveling on the US-219 N. This proximity makes it a more convenient option for urgent care needs. However, the accessibility of specialized services will vary depending on the location.

Smaller clinics and physician offices are scattered throughout the region, offering varying degrees of convenience depending on location. The time spent on the road is a critical factor in healthcare access. Longer drive times can discourage preventative care, exacerbate existing conditions, and create undue stress for patients.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** within the Parkhill area is provided by the Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA). While the CCTA offers a valuable service, its reach and frequency are limited. The available routes, though providing a lifeline for some, may not be ideal for all healthcare needs.

Route 10 and Route 11 are the main routes that service Parkhill and the surrounding area. These routes operate on a set schedule, but the frequency of service may not always align with the urgent needs of healthcare appointments. The CCTA does provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the fixed routes may not always provide direct access to all healthcare facilities.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

The rise of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, has offered an alternative to traditional **transportation**. While these services are available in the Johnstown area, their availability and cost can vary. The reliability of these services is a crucial factor, especially for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring timely medical attention.

Medical **transportation** services specifically designed for healthcare appointments are also available. Companies such as MedStar Ambulance and other local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services can be a valuable resource for those who cannot drive themselves or rely on public transit. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for some.

**Healthcare Facility Landscape:**

The availability of healthcare facilities in and around Parkhill is a crucial determinant of the "Overall Health Score." Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and outpatient clinics. UPMC Altoona, though farther away, provides a broader range of specialized care.

The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within a reasonable distance significantly impacts the health of the community. The availability of these services is directly related to the ease of access via **transportation**.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Considering all the factors, the "Overall Health Score" for residents of Parkhill (ZIP Code 15945) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center provides a degree of convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offers additional options, but their cost and reliability must be considered.

The "Overall Health Score" is moderately positive. The relatively short drive to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center and the availability of ride-sharing services are positives. However, the limited public transit options and the distance to UPMC Altoona present challenges. The score is also influenced by the cost of **transportation**, which can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for low-income residents.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To enhance the "Overall Health Score" for Parkhill residents, several improvements are recommended. Expanding the reach and frequency of the CCTA routes would improve **healthcare access**, particularly for those who do not have access to a personal vehicle. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized **transportation** for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Promoting the availability of telehealth services could reduce the need for in-person visits, especially for routine check-ups and consultations. Finally, encouraging the establishment of more primary care physicians and specialized clinics within the Parkhill area would significantly improve the health and well-being of the community.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for Parkhill, Pennsylvania, reflects a complex interplay of **transportation** options, geographical factors, and healthcare resources. While the area offers adequate **healthcare access**, improvements in public transit, ride-sharing programs, and the availability of local medical services are vital to enhance the health and well-being of Parkhill residents. For those **moving to Parkhill**, understanding the **transportation** landscape and the available healthcare options is essential for maintaining optimal health. The future of healthcare in Parkhill hinges on the ability to create a more accessible and equitable system for all residents.