16131, Hartstown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16131, Hartstown, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.63 percent of residents in 16131 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Horizon with a distance of 9.59 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16131 (Hartstown, PA)

This analysis provides a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 16131, encompassing Hartstown, Pennsylvania. It evaluates the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities, a critical factor in overall community well-being. Understanding the transportation landscape is paramount for residents, especially those considering **moving to Hartstown**, and for assessing the overall health of the community. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture of **healthcare access** in this rural area.

Hartstown, nestled in Crawford County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its rural setting means residents often rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The availability of public transit and ride-sharing services is limited, highlighting the importance of understanding the existing transportation infrastructure. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the ease with which residents can reach medical care, a crucial component of a healthy and thriving community.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways serving Hartstown are Route 18 and Route 322. These roads connect Hartstown to larger towns and cities where hospitals and specialist practices are located. Drive times are significantly impacted by traffic, weather conditions, and the distance to medical facilities. The nearest hospital, UPMC Horizon, is located in Greenville, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Route 18.

Access to specialized care often necessitates longer drives. For instance, traveling to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) in Pittsburgh could take upwards of two hours, largely dependent on traffic along Interstate 79 (I-79). Similarly, reaching facilities in Erie, accessible via I-79 North, could take around an hour and a half. These extended drive times can pose significant challenges for individuals with chronic illnesses, mobility limitations, or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

The condition of the roads also plays a role. Rural roads can be subject to seasonal deterioration, particularly during winter months. This can further extend travel times and increase the risk of accidents. Therefore, understanding the road conditions and planning for potential delays is crucial for residents of Hartstown.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 16131 are limited. Crawford Area Transportation Authority (CATA) provides some public transportation services within Crawford County, but the frequency and coverage in Hartstown are minimal. CATA operates on a demand-response basis, meaning residents must schedule rides in advance. This can be inconvenient, especially for urgent medical needs.

The lack of regular public transit significantly impacts individuals without personal vehicles, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. This limited accessibility can create barriers to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles within the CATA fleet is essential for ensuring inclusivity, but the overall impact is still limited due to the infrequent service.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, though their presence may be less consistent in rural areas like Hartstown. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver density and demand. Residents needing transportation to medical appointments should plan ahead and book rides in advance, especially during peak hours or for early morning appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are crucial for individuals who cannot drive themselves. These services provide transportation to and from medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other healthcare needs. Several medical transport providers operate in the area, including local ambulance services and specialized NEMT companies.

The availability of these services can vary, and it is essential to understand the coverage area, insurance acceptance, and cost associated with each provider. Residents should familiarize themselves with these options and have a plan in place for medical transportation needs.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 16131 is moderately impacted by the transportation infrastructure. The reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and potential challenges with ride-sharing availability create some barriers to healthcare access. While medical transport services offer a solution for some, the overall accessibility is lower than in more urbanized areas.

The score is also influenced by the distance to medical facilities, the condition of the roads, and the availability of specialized care. Residents of Hartstown must consider these factors when planning for their healthcare needs.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the Overall Health Score, several initiatives could be implemented. Expanding public transit options, including increasing the frequency and coverage of CATA services, would significantly improve healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and expanding the availability of in-home healthcare services could reduce the need for travel. Investing in road maintenance and improvements would also enhance safety and reduce travel times.

For those **moving to Hartstown**, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. Researching available medical facilities, understanding the limitations of public transit, and planning for potential transportation challenges are crucial steps in ensuring access to healthcare.

**Conclusion:**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 16131 reflects the unique challenges and opportunities presented by its rural setting. While residents have access to medical care, the reliance on personal vehicles and limited public transit options can create barriers. By understanding the existing transportation infrastructure, planning for potential challenges, and advocating for improvements, residents can ensure their access to essential healthcare services. Improving **transportation** options is critical for enhancing **healthcare access** and fostering a healthier community, especially for those **moving to Hartstown**.