15957, Strongstown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 15957, Strongstown, Pennsylvania is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.65 percent of residents in 15957 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Miners Medical Center with a distance of 13.00 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15957

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In ZIP Code 15957, nestled within the heart of Strongstown, Pennsylvania, this access is largely dictated by transportation options. Evaluating the "Overall Health Score" for this area necessitates a deep dive into the practical realities of getting to medical appointments, considering factors beyond just the presence of healthcare facilities. This analysis will explore drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing possibilities, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility for residents.

The primary artery for vehicular travel within and around 15957 is **U.S. Route 219**, a major north-south highway. Traveling north on Route 219, residents can reach the city of Johnstown, approximately a 20-minute drive. Johnstown is the primary hub for specialized medical care, including hospitals like Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center. Heading south on Route 219 offers access to smaller towns and eventually connects to the Pennsylvania Turnpike, enabling travel to larger metropolitan areas. The condition of Route 219 is generally good, though it can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near Johnstown.

**Pennsylvania Route 56** provides an east-west corridor, connecting Strongstown to other communities. This route offers alternative routes to Johnstown and other healthcare facilities. The drive times on Route 56 are typically longer than on Route 219, due to a lower speed limit and more frequent intersections.

For residents without personal vehicles, public transportation becomes a crucial element of healthcare access. The **Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA)** provides bus service within the region. While the CCTA does serve Strongstown, service frequency and routes are limited. The primary route serving the area is likely to be a route that connects Strongstown to Johnstown. This route might operate on a limited schedule, perhaps with fewer runs on weekends or evenings. The CCTA operates some buses equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the limited service frequency and potential for longer travel times can pose significant barriers for those needing prompt medical attention.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer another potential transportation option. However, the availability of these services in a rural area like Strongstown is less consistent compared to larger cities. Demand can be unpredictable, and wait times might be longer, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies such as **Medicaid Transportation** and **First Transit** may offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements, often tied to Medicaid or other insurance programs. NEMT services can be a lifeline for those unable to drive or utilize public transportation, but they are subject to scheduling constraints and may not be available for urgent situations.

The presence of healthcare facilities within 15957 itself is limited. Residents typically need to travel to Johnstown or other surrounding communities for comprehensive medical care. This necessitates a reliance on transportation, making the availability and efficiency of these options paramount to the overall health score.

Factors such as the age and health status of the population in 15957 also influence the importance of transportation options. An aging population, or a population with a higher prevalence of chronic illnesses, will likely have a greater need for frequent medical appointments. The availability of reliable and accessible transportation becomes even more critical in these cases.

The cost of transportation is another significant consideration. The price of gasoline, the cost of public transit fares, and the expense of ride-sharing services all contribute to the overall financial burden of healthcare access. This is particularly relevant for low-income residents, who may face significant challenges in affording transportation to medical appointments.

The healthcare access landscape in 15957 is a complex interplay of factors. While drive times to Johnstown are relatively manageable, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the constraints of specialized medical transport services create challenges for some residents.

The "Overall Health Score" for 15957, concerning healthcare access, would be significantly impacted by improvements in transportation infrastructure and services. Increased public transit frequency, expanded ride-sharing availability, and enhanced NEMT options would all contribute to a higher score.

For individuals **moving to Strongstown**, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. It is essential to assess personal transportation needs and consider the availability of healthcare services within a reasonable distance. The ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the potential reliance on public or specialized services should all be carefully evaluated.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 15957 is moderate. While the proximity to Johnstown provides access to a range of medical services, the limitations of transportation options, particularly for those without personal vehicles, create barriers to care. Addressing these transportation challenges is crucial to improving the overall health and well-being of the residents of Strongstown.