16132, Hillsville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16132, Hillsville, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.84 percent of residents in 16132 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Jameson with a distance of 7.49 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16132 (Hillsville, PA)

Understanding the ease of access to healthcare is paramount when evaluating the overall health score of a community. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP code 16132, focusing on the accessibility of medical facilities, considering factors like drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation options. This information is particularly relevant for individuals contemplating moving to Hillsville, Pennsylvania, and seeking to understand the practicalities of accessing healthcare services.

The health score for this area is significantly impacted by the availability of convenient and reliable **transportation** options to medical facilities. The ability to reach doctors, hospitals, and specialists quickly and efficiently is a crucial determinant of community health. A low score in this area can indicate a barrier to timely medical care, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a high score reflects a community that prioritizes the health of its residents by facilitating easy access to medical services.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Residents of Hillsville primarily rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The central location of the town provides relatively easy access to healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas. The primary roadways facilitating access to healthcare are Pennsylvania Route 224 and U.S. Route 422. These roads are vital arteries, connecting Hillsville to larger towns and cities where more specialized medical services are available.

Driving to the closest urgent care facility, located in New Castle, PA, typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes via PA-224. This drive is generally straightforward, offering a reasonable commute time for immediate medical needs. For more comprehensive care, including hospital visits, the closest major hospital, UPMC Jameson in New Castle, is also accessible via PA-224. The drive is similar in time, approximately 20 minutes, making it a practical option for residents.

Specialist appointments, such as those with cardiologists or neurologists, often necessitate travel to larger medical centers in Youngstown, Ohio, or Pittsburgh, PA. The drive to Youngstown, primarily utilizing U.S. Route 422 and Interstate 680, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This journey, while manageable, highlights the need for careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Trips to Pittsburgh, a major medical hub, require a longer commute. Residents can travel via Interstate 376, a drive that typically takes between one hour and fifteen minutes to one hour and thirty minutes, depending on traffic. This longer distance emphasizes the importance of considering the accessibility of specialized care when assessing the overall health score of the area.

**Public Transit:**

The public **transportation** options in Hillsville are limited. The primary provider of public transit in Lawrence County is the Lawrence County Transit Authority (LCTA). However, LCTA’s services in Hillsville are not extensive. Limited routes exist, and they often necessitate transfers, potentially increasing travel times significantly.

The LCTA operates a demand-response service, often referred to as "dial-a-ride," which provides door-to-door service within the county. This service requires advance booking and may have limited availability, especially during peak hours. This type of service is particularly useful for individuals with mobility limitations or those without access to a personal vehicle.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial factor in assessing the inclusivity of public transit. The LCTA strives to provide accessible vehicles to ensure that individuals with disabilities can access their services. However, the limited scope of public transit in the area presents a challenge for those who rely on it for healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability may vary depending on the time of day and demand. These services can offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who are unable to drive themselves. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, and it is essential to factor this into the overall healthcare access equation.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often cater to individuals with mobility issues or those who require specialized care during transport. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport providers.

These services can be valuable for individuals who cannot drive themselves or who require assistance. The availability of these services contributes positively to the overall health score by providing additional options for accessing healthcare. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some residents, highlighting the need for considering financial assistance programs.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The overall health score for Hillsville, PA, reflects a mixed picture regarding **healthcare access**. While drive times to nearby urgent care and hospitals are relatively reasonable, the limited public transit options and the need for longer commutes to access specialized care can pose challenges.

Individuals considering **moving to Hillsville** should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and assess their ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape. Those who rely on public transit or have limited mobility may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare services.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options, but the cost of these services must be considered. Furthermore, the limited availability of specialist physicians within the immediate vicinity necessitates longer travel times for specialized care.

The overall health score is affected by the balance between the convenience of nearby facilities and the need for longer commutes to access specialized care. The availability of various **transportation** options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, is crucial in determining the accessibility of healthcare for residents. A community that actively promotes and supports accessible **transportation** options, including public transit and medical transport, will invariably improve its overall health score and enhance the well-being of its residents.