16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.56 percent of residents in 16114 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Horizon with a distance of 10.37 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16114

The quest for optimal health often hinges on a fundamental element: access. In the rural expanse of ZIP Code 16114, encompassing the charming community of Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania, this access is primarily defined by the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare services. This report delves into the transportation landscape, meticulously evaluating the commute to healthcare facilities, and ultimately assigning an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the challenges and opportunities presented within this specific geographic area.

The primary mode of transportation in 16114 is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The winding roads and open spaces characteristic of this region necessitate a reliance on cars for most daily activities, including healthcare appointments. Driving times to medical facilities in nearby towns like Greenville and Mercer are crucial factors influencing the overall health score.

The most direct route to Greenville, where UPMC Horizon Greenville is located, involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 58, a two-lane highway that can become congested during peak hours. The drive, typically spanning approximately 15 to 20 minutes, is relatively straightforward, but any unforeseen delays, such as accidents or inclement weather, can significantly impact the travel time and create stress for individuals seeking medical attention.

Traveling to Mercer, the county seat, presents a slightly longer journey. The route primarily utilizes US Route 19, a more significant thoroughfare with a higher speed limit, but also potentially heavier traffic. Depending on the specific destination within Mercer, such as the UPMC Jameson Mercer facility, the drive can range from 25 to 35 minutes. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, is a critical consideration, potentially lengthening travel times and posing safety concerns.

Public transportation options in 16114 are limited. The Mercer County Regional Planning Commission (MCRPC) operates a demand-response transit system, providing transportation within the county. However, fixed-route services are not available in this area. Individuals needing to access healthcare facilities must schedule rides in advance, and availability can be constrained, particularly during peak hours or for specialized appointments.

The MCRPC transit system offers ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of readily available, frequent service can still pose a significant challenge for those who rely on public transit. The need to book rides in advance and the potential for longer travel times contribute to a lower overall health score for residents dependent on this mode of transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, although their presence may be less consistent compared to more urban areas. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver density and demand, potentially leading to longer wait times or higher fares, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The reliability of ride-sharing as a primary means of transportation to healthcare facilities in 16114 is, therefore, somewhat questionable.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans or similar regional providers may operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during their journey. However, these services often come with a cost, and availability may be subject to scheduling constraints.

The overall health score for 16114 is significantly influenced by the transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. The longer drive times to healthcare facilities in Greenville and Mercer, coupled with the potential for delays due to traffic or weather, can create stress and inconvenience for residents.

For individuals considering moving to Clarks Mills, the accessibility of healthcare should be a paramount concern. The ability to efficiently and reliably reach medical appointments is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential challenges associated with accessing healthcare in this rural setting.

The absence of readily available public transit and the dependence on personal vehicles or scheduled transportation services can create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for those without their own means of transportation or those with mobility limitations. The distance to healthcare facilities, combined with the potential for delays, can lead to missed appointments, delayed diagnoses, and ultimately, a negative impact on health outcomes.

The overall health score is further impacted by the availability of specialized medical services. While basic primary care and some specialist appointments may be available in nearby towns, access to more complex or specialized care may require travel to larger cities, further increasing travel times and transportation costs. This lack of readily available specialized care contributes to a lower health score for residents of 16114.

The cost of transportation is another critical factor. The expense of owning and maintaining a vehicle, coupled with the rising cost of fuel, can place a financial burden on residents, particularly those with lower incomes. The cost of ride-sharing services or medical transportation can also be significant, further exacerbating the financial challenges associated with accessing healthcare.

The overall health score for 16114, therefore, reflects a complex interplay of factors. The rural nature of the area, the limited public transit options, and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for residents seeking healthcare. The drive times to medical facilities, the potential for delays, and the cost of transportation all contribute to a lower overall score.

To improve the health score, several interventions could be considered. Enhancing the availability and frequency of public transit, particularly for those with mobility limitations, would be beneficial. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation to medical appointments could also be a viable option.

Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road maintenance and expansion, could help to reduce travel times and improve safety. Promoting telehealth services, where appropriate, could also help to reduce the need for in-person appointments and improve access to care.

Ultimately, the overall health score for 16114 highlights the importance of addressing the transportation challenges that impact healthcare access. By implementing targeted interventions and fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, transportation providers, and community organizations, the overall health score can be improved, ensuring that residents of Clarks Mills and the surrounding area have access to the healthcare they need to thrive.