15955, Sidman, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15955, Sidman, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.35 percent of residents in 15955 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chan Soon- Shiong Medical Center At Windber with a distance of 8.33 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15955 (Sidman, PA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Sidman, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15955) necessitates a thorough examination of healthcare access, heavily influenced by transportation options. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport provisions. The goal is to paint a clear picture for prospective residents, particularly those considering moving to Sidman, regarding the ease and efficiency of obtaining necessary medical care.

The primary challenge in this rural area is the limited availability of healthcare facilities directly within the ZIP code. This necessitates travel to neighboring towns and cities for routine checkups, specialized treatments, and emergency services. Consequently, the quality of transportation infrastructure becomes paramount in determining the overall health score. A robust and reliable transportation system directly translates into better healthcare access, ultimately impacting the well-being of the community.

**Driving Times and Road Networks:**

The most common mode of transportation in Sidman is personal vehicles. The road network, while generally well-maintained, presents certain challenges. Residents primarily utilize Pennsylvania Route 56 (also known as the Scalp Level Road) and Pennsylvania Route 271 for local travel. These roads are essential arteries, connecting Sidman to Johnstown, Windber, and other surrounding communities where healthcare facilities are concentrated.

Traveling to the major healthcare hubs in Johnstown, such as UPMC Altoona and Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, typically involves a drive of approximately 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. The journey often begins on PA-56 and progresses onto highways like US-219.

Windber, a smaller town with its own hospital, Windber Medical Center, offers a closer option, roughly a 10 to 15-minute drive via PA-271. However, specialized care might still necessitate a trip to Johnstown or further afield.

The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and safety. Snow and ice can lead to delays and increase the risk of accidents, potentially hindering access to timely medical attention. Therefore, the reliability of road maintenance is a crucial factor in the overall health score.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 15955 are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus services in the Johnstown area, but its routes and frequency in Sidman and the surrounding rural areas are restricted. This scarcity poses a significant barrier for individuals without personal vehicles, especially the elderly, disabled, and those with low incomes.

While specific route numbers and schedules vary, the CCTA does offer some service to areas near Sidman. However, these routes often have limited operating hours and infrequent schedules, making them impractical for many healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses, equipped with ramps and lifts for individuals with disabilities, is crucial for ensuring equitable access to healthcare. The accessibility and reliability of these services directly impact the overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a presence in the Johnstown area, offering an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to public transit. However, their availability in Sidman and the surrounding rural areas is often limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier for some residents.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or private medical transport providers, cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical supervision during transit. While these services are available in the area, they can be expensive, and their availability might be limited depending on the patient's insurance coverage and the specific needs of the transport.

The cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services significantly influence the overall health score. These services are particularly important for individuals who cannot drive, have mobility limitations, or require specialized medical attention during transit.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for ZIP Code 15955 is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While residents have access to healthcare facilities in nearby towns, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services create challenges.

The drive times to healthcare facilities are generally reasonable, but the dependence on personal vehicles can be problematic for those without them. The limited public transit options and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services further exacerbate these challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Sidman, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and consider the potential challenges of accessing healthcare.

The overall health score can be improved by investing in public transportation infrastructure, expanding ride-sharing services, and increasing the availability of affordable medical transport options. These improvements would significantly enhance healthcare access and contribute to a healthier community.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for ZIP Code 15955 is influenced by the interplay of transportation infrastructure and healthcare access. While the area has access to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options pose challenges. The overall health score can be improved by addressing these transportation limitations, thereby ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the medical care they need. For those considering moving to Sidman, a careful assessment of their individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential.