16140, New Bedford, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16140, New Bedford, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.65 percent of residents in 16140 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sharon Regional Health System with a distance of 9.45 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16140

Evaluating the overall health of a community necessitates a deep dive into the practicalities of daily life, especially concerning access to essential services. In ZIP Code 16140, the ability to reach healthcare providers is a critical factor in determining the community’s overall well-being. This assessment will examine the transportation landscape, analyzing drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services to determine the ease with which residents can access medical care. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to New Bedford and seeking a comprehensive understanding of the local infrastructure.

The primary mode of transportation in 16140 is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The area is served by several key roadways that facilitate movement to healthcare facilities. Traveling north and south, residents can utilize **Interstate 376**, a major artery that connects to various points within the region. Accessing healthcare facilities in nearby towns often involves navigating **US Route 422**, another significant thoroughfare. Depending on the specific location of the medical provider, residents might also utilize local roads such as **East Washington Street** and **South Mercer Avenue** to reach their destinations.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial consideration. The distance and traffic conditions significantly impact the convenience and stress associated with accessing medical care. For example, a trip to UPMC Jameson Hospital, a major healthcare provider, from various points within 16140 could take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic volume and the specific origin point. Smaller clinics and specialist offices located in the immediate vicinity might be reachable within a 5-10 minute drive. However, traveling to more specialized facilities or those located further afield could extend the commute, potentially impacting the overall health score.

Public transportation offers an alternative, although its availability and efficiency are key factors in determining its impact on healthcare access. The **New Castle Transit Authority (NCTA)** provides bus services within the city and surrounding areas. While the NCTA offers routes that could potentially serve residents of 16140, the frequency of service and the directness of routes to healthcare facilities are crucial factors. For example, a resident needing to reach UPMC Jameson Hospital might need to transfer buses, increasing the overall travel time. Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. The NCTA’s adherence to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, including wheelchair accessibility on buses and accessible stops, directly impacts the healthcare access for a significant portion of the population.

The NCTA’s routes and schedules should be carefully examined to determine their effectiveness in connecting residents of 16140 with healthcare providers. The availability of real-time tracking information and user-friendly route planning tools are also essential for making public transit a viable option. The more efficiently public transit connects residents to healthcare, the higher the overall health score for the community.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as another option for transportation, particularly for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle or prefer not to drive. The availability and cost of these services within 16140 are important considerations. The presence of a robust ride-sharing network can significantly improve healthcare access, especially for those needing occasional or urgent care. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, also play a role in healthcare access. These services are often utilized by individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. The availability of medical transportation providers in 16140, along with their service areas and the types of assistance they offer, is a crucial factor in the overall health score. These services can bridge the gap for those who are unable to utilize other forms of transportation.

The overall health score for 16140 is directly impacted by the interplay of these various transportation options. The ease with which residents can access healthcare providers, whether by personal vehicle, public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transportation, is a key determinant of the community's well-being.

The accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves also contributes to the overall health score. The proximity of primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and urgent care centers within a reasonable distance is essential. A community with a wide range of healthcare providers located within easy reach will naturally have a higher health score. Furthermore, the availability of after-hours care and emergency services is a critical factor, ensuring that residents can access medical attention when they need it most.

The quality of the healthcare facilities is also a crucial factor. The reputation of the hospitals, clinics, and individual providers, as well as the availability of specialized services and advanced medical technologies, directly impacts the overall health score. A community with high-quality healthcare facilities will naturally be more attractive to residents and contribute to a higher standard of living.

The cost of healthcare is another significant consideration. The affordability of medical care, including insurance premiums, co-pays, and the cost of prescription medications, is a critical factor in determining healthcare access. A community where healthcare is affordable and accessible to all residents will have a higher health score.

In conclusion, evaluating the overall health score for 16140 requires a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. The availability of various transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers, is a key determinant of the community’s well-being. The proximity of healthcare facilities, the quality of care, and the affordability of medical services are also crucial considerations. By carefully analyzing these factors, a more accurate assessment of the community’s overall health can be made, providing valuable insights for residents and those considering moving to New Bedford. The more readily available and accessible healthcare is, the healthier the community will be.