15952, Salix, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15952, Salix, Pennsylvania is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.22 percent of residents in 15952 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chan Soon- Shiong Medical Center At Windber with a distance of 4.73 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15952 (Salix, Pennsylvania)

This assessment provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 15952, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services via various transportation methods. Understanding the challenges and opportunities in accessing medical care is crucial for residents, particularly those considering moving to Salix. This analysis examines drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access.

The health of a community is intricately linked to its ability to access quality healthcare. This accessibility is significantly impacted by transportation infrastructure and available services. This evaluation delves into the specifics of transportation options in and around Salix, Pennsylvania, to understand how residents can reach essential medical appointments and services.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

For residents of Salix, the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare is personal vehicles. The geography of the area necessitates reliance on roads and highways. Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor influencing the overall health score.

The closest major healthcare hub is likely in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, a city approximately 15 miles from Salix. The primary route to Johnstown involves navigating **State Route 56 (the Johnstown Expressway)**. Traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel time. Beyond Johnstown, specialized care may require travel to Pittsburgh, a drive of roughly 70 miles, predominantly via **U.S. Route 22**.

The condition of the roads and the presence of traffic control measures, such as traffic lights and stop signs, also affect drive times. Poor road maintenance, including potholes and inadequate signage, can further increase travel times and potentially pose safety risks. Considering the rural nature of the area, weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can severely impact road conditions and accessibility.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation plays a limited role in healthcare access for Salix residents. The primary public transit provider in the area is the **Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA)**. The CCTA operates a network of bus routes throughout Cambria County.

While the CCTA serves Johnstown and surrounding areas, service to Salix itself is limited. Residents would likely need to travel to a central location, such as Johnstown, to access the bus network. This initial travel could involve a combination of walking, a short drive, or potentially a ride from a neighbor.

The CCTA strives to provide accessible services, including ADA-compliant buses equipped with ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and reach of the bus routes can pose challenges for residents requiring frequent medical appointments or those with mobility limitations.

The routes serving Johnstown, such as **Route 10** and **Route 20**, are the most likely options for those seeking to reach healthcare facilities. However, the schedules and frequency of these routes must be carefully considered when planning medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area. These services offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles and public transit, particularly for individuals who do not own a car or prefer not to drive. However, the availability of ride-sharing services in Salix itself may be limited, requiring residents to arrange for a ride to a more populated area for pick-up.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with fixed incomes or multiple medical appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further increase the cost of transportation.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance.

Local providers may include ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transport services. These services may be available for residents in 15952, but availability and cost should be thoroughly researched.

**Healthcare Access Score and Considerations:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 15952 is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing services create challenges for some residents.

The drive times to healthcare facilities in Johnstown and beyond are manageable, but traffic and weather conditions can impact travel times. The limited public transit options require careful planning and may not be suitable for all residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers additional options, but cost and availability can be limiting factors.

**Recommendations:**

To improve healthcare access for residents of Salix, several steps could be considered. Expanding the reach and frequency of public transit services, particularly those connecting Salix with Johnstown, would benefit many residents. Encouraging the availability of ride-sharing services and subsidizing transportation costs for low-income residents could also improve access.

Investing in road maintenance and improving traffic flow on **State Route 56** and **U.S. Route 22** would reduce drive times and improve safety. Promoting awareness of medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability would provide crucial support for individuals with mobility limitations.

For those considering moving to Salix, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and access to healthcare is essential. Understanding the available options and their limitations is crucial for ensuring access to necessary medical care. The overall health score reflects the interplay of transportation infrastructure and available services, directly impacting the well-being of the community.