15953, Seanor, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15953, Seanor, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 15953 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chan Soon- Shiong Medical Center At Windber with a distance of 3.91 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15953

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access essential services, particularly healthcare. In the rural expanse of ZIP Code 15953, encompassing the charming community of Seanor, Pennsylvania, this connection is particularly vital. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" by evaluating the ease and efficiency of transportation to healthcare facilities. It delves into the realities of commuting, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare access for residents of this unique area.

The primary challenge for Seanor residents lies in its geographical isolation. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in Johnstown, a city approximately 15 miles away. This seemingly short distance can be deceptive, as the roads and transportation infrastructure present significant hurdles. The primary artery for travel is Pennsylvania Route 56, a two-lane highway that can experience heavy traffic during peak hours. This often extends drive times.

The journey along Route 56 is the most direct route, however, it is not without its limitations. The road conditions, particularly during the harsh Pennsylvania winters, can significantly impact travel times. Snow and ice can transform a 20-minute drive into a treacherous and time-consuming ordeal. Further complicating matters is the absence of reliable alternate routes. Secondary roads like Scalp Avenue and the various local roads offer limited options, often adding significant mileage and time to the commute.

Public transportation, a crucial element of healthcare access in many communities, presents a significant challenge in 15953. The Greater Johnstown School District does provide transportation for students. The Johnstown Area Regional Transportation Authority (JARTA) does not have a dedicated route that directly serves Seanor. This forces residents to rely heavily on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services. This lack of public transit severely limits healthcare access for those without personal transportation, particularly the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution, but their availability in rural areas is often inconsistent. While these services may be present in Johnstown, their coverage in Seanor and the surrounding areas is less reliable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. The financial burden of transportation can quickly accumulate, impacting the overall health and well-being of residents.

Medical transport services, designed to cater specifically to healthcare needs, are available in the region. Companies like AmeriCare Ambulance Service and Medic 10 offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services provide transportation for appointments, but they come with associated costs, which can be a strain on residents. The scheduling and availability of these services must also be considered, as delays can disrupt healthcare schedules.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 15953 is therefore significantly influenced by these transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to a lower score. This situation can lead to delayed or missed appointments, hindering preventative care and potentially exacerbating existing health conditions.

The impact of these transportation barriers extends beyond the physical act of getting to a doctor's appointment. It affects the overall quality of life for residents. The stress of navigating challenging roads, the financial burden of transportation costs, and the anxiety of unreliable options can contribute to mental and emotional strain. This stress can further impact health outcomes, creating a vicious cycle.

For individuals considering moving to Seanor, the transportation aspect of healthcare access is a crucial factor. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and capabilities. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should consider the practical challenges of accessing healthcare facilities. This assessment should be a key part of their decision-making process.

The community of Seanor has a strong sense of community, and local initiatives that address healthcare access are critical. Collaboration between local organizations, healthcare providers, and transportation services is essential to improve the "Overall Health Score." Exploring the possibility of extending JARTA routes to serve Seanor, or establishing a community-based transportation program, could significantly enhance healthcare access.

Improving the infrastructure, such as road maintenance, and increasing the availability of ride-sharing services would also improve the situation. The implementation of telehealth services, where possible, can help mitigate the need for physical travel. These solutions can help improve the overall health score.

The success of these initiatives hinges on a comprehensive understanding of the community's needs. Regular surveys and feedback from residents can help identify specific challenges and inform the development of effective solutions. A proactive approach, prioritizing healthcare access through improved transportation options, is essential for fostering a healthy and thriving community in Seanor.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 15953 is significantly impacted by transportation challenges. The geographical isolation, the limited public transit, and the potential unreliability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to a lower score. Addressing these challenges through community-based solutions, infrastructure improvements, and the promotion of telehealth services is crucial for improving healthcare access and enhancing the overall health and well-being of the residents of Seanor. This requires a concerted effort from the community, healthcare providers, and local authorities to ensure that healthcare is accessible to all, regardless of their transportation capabilities.