16150, Sharpsville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16150, Sharpsville, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.72 percent of residents in 16150 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sharon Regional Health System with a distance of 2.79 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16150 (Sharpsville, PA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Sharpsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16150), necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access, with a significant focus on the transportation options available. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities residents face when seeking medical care. This information is vital for individuals considering moving to Sharpsville, as it directly impacts their ability to maintain their health and well-being.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Sharpsville is the availability of reliable transportation. The town's location, while offering a sense of community, presents geographical limitations. Residents often rely on personal vehicles for accessing medical facilities. The most direct routes involve navigating the local road network, including **State Route 18**, which serves as a major thoroughfare, and **State Route 62**, connecting Sharpsville to nearby towns and cities. Travel times, therefore, are heavily dependent on traffic conditions and the distance to healthcare providers.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary considerably. For routine appointments, such as primary care physician visits, residents might find convenient options within a 10- to 15-minute drive. However, specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, may necessitate travel to larger medical centers located further away. The **UPMC Jameson Hospital** in New Castle, approximately a 25- to 30-minute drive via **Interstate 80** and **PA-18**, offers a wide range of services. The **Sharon Regional Medical Center**, accessible via **PA-18** and **US-62**, is another option, potentially requiring a 15- to 20-minute drive.

Public transportation options within Sharpsville are limited. The **Shenango Valley Transportation Authority (SVTA)** provides bus service throughout Mercer County. However, the routes and schedules may not always align with the needs of healthcare access. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. The frequency of service and the proximity of bus stops to medical facilities are also critical considerations. Potential residents should investigate the specific routes and schedules offered by SVTA to determine their suitability for their healthcare needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Sharpsville area, offering an alternative transportation option, especially for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate depending on the time of day and demand. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited financial resources. Residents should factor in the potential cost of ride-sharing when budgeting for healthcare expenses.

Medical transportation services are another critical component of healthcare access. Several companies specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments, including non-emergency and wheelchair-accessible transport. These services are particularly important for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance getting to and from medical facilities. The availability and cost of these services should be carefully considered. The specific brands operating in the area, along with their service areas and associated fees, should be researched.

The overall health score for Sharpsville residents is influenced by the interplay of these transportation factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, combined with the limitations of public transit, can create challenges for those without access to a car or who are unable to drive. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers offers alternative solutions, but their cost and availability must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Sharpsville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Those who require frequent medical appointments or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the accessibility of healthcare facilities and the availability of transportation options. Researching the specific routes and schedules of the SVTA, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the medical transport providers in the area is crucial.

Furthermore, the geographical distribution of healthcare providers within the region should be considered. While some services may be readily accessible, specialized care may require longer travel times. The availability of urgent care facilities and emergency services within a reasonable distance is also a critical factor.

The overall health score in Sharpsville is not just about the availability of healthcare facilities; it's also about the ease with which residents can access those facilities. The transportation infrastructure, the availability of alternative transportation options, and the cost of these services all play a significant role in shaping the health and well-being of the community. This is a dynamic landscape, and changes in transportation options, healthcare provider locations, and the cost of services will all impact the overall health score.

In conclusion, while Sharpsville offers a sense of community and a relatively affordable cost of living, the limitations in transportation options pose a potential challenge to healthcare access. Residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and research the available options to ensure they can readily access the medical care they require. This is particularly important for those with chronic health conditions or mobility limitations. The overall health score, therefore, is a nuanced assessment, dependent on individual circumstances and a proactive approach to navigating the transportation landscape.