15954, Seward, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15954, Seward, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.80 percent of residents in 15954 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 9.47 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15954 (Seward, PA)

The serene landscape of Seward, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 15954, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, assessing the overall health score necessitates a critical examination of healthcare access, particularly the *transportation* infrastructure that connects residents to vital medical services. This analysis delves into drive times, public transit options, and alternative *transportation* methods to paint a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking *healthcare access* in this rural community, especially for those *moving to Seward*.

The primary challenge for Seward residents lies in its relative isolation. The nearest major medical facilities are located in Johnstown, approximately 15 miles away. This distance translates into a drive time that can vary significantly depending on road conditions and time of day. The primary route is via **U.S. Route 22**, a major east-west highway. During peak hours, congestion on Route 22, particularly near interchanges, can add considerable time to the commute. Secondary routes, such as **State Route 56** and various local roads, offer alternative pathways, but these are often winding and subject to seasonal weather-related delays, particularly during winter months.

The average drive time to Johnstown hospitals, including Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center and UPMC Altoona, can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. This time frame presents a significant barrier to *healthcare access*, especially for individuals requiring urgent care or those with chronic conditions needing frequent appointments. The ability to quickly reach medical attention is a critical factor in overall health, and the distance from Seward necessitates careful consideration.

Public *transportation* options are limited in Seward. The Greater Johnstown School District provides school bus services, and the Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) offers some routes. However, these services primarily focus on serving the needs of school children and residents within Johnstown city limits. CCTA routes rarely extend to Seward, making public *transportation* a non-viable option for most residents seeking *healthcare access*. This lack of public transit further exacerbates the reliance on personal vehicles, increasing the burden on those without access to a car or those unable to drive.

The CCTA does offer *ADA* (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible buses, but their limited service area does not serve Seward. This absence of *ADA* compliant public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals with mobility impairments, further restricting their *healthcare access*. The lack of reliable and accessible public *transportation* is a major factor negatively impacting the overall health score for Seward residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, but their presence in Seward is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments can be unreliable, especially during inclement weather or off-peak hours. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent appointments or those with limited incomes.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several providers operate in the Johnstown area, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical *transportation* companies. These services often cater to individuals with specific medical needs or those who require assistance with mobility. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, limiting their utility for urgent care situations. The availability and cost of these services are important considerations in the overall health score.

The overall health score for Seward, PA, ZIP code 15954, is negatively impacted by the challenges associated with *transportation* to *healthcare access*. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to accessing timely and affordable medical care. The drive times to Johnstown hospitals, while not excessive, can be problematic, especially during emergencies or for those with mobility limitations.

For individuals *moving to Seward*, understanding these *transportation* limitations is crucial. Prospective residents should factor in the potential for increased commute times to medical appointments and the need to rely on personal vehicles. Careful consideration should be given to the availability of family members, friends, or community support to assist with *transportation* needs.

The absence of robust public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services highlight the need for community-based solutions. Exploring options such as community carpools, volunteer driver programs, or partnerships with local organizations to provide *transportation* assistance could improve *healthcare access* for Seward residents. The development of these initiatives would contribute to a higher overall health score.

The health score for Seward is further influenced by the geographic isolation. This isolation impacts the ability to quickly access specialized medical services, such as those offered by specialists or tertiary care facilities. The distance to these facilities adds to the *transportation* burden, making it more challenging for residents to receive comprehensive care.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Seward, PA, ZIP code 15954, is moderate, with significant areas for improvement. The primary challenge is the limited *transportation* options available to residents seeking *healthcare access*. Addressing this challenge through community-based initiatives, exploring public transit expansion, and promoting awareness of available medical *transportation* services are essential steps towards improving the health and well-being of the Seward community, particularly for those *moving to Seward* and seeking a healthy lifestyle.