16155, Villa Maria, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16155, Villa Maria, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 16155 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Jameson with a distance of 9.20 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16155

This assessment delves into the multifaceted aspects of healthcare accessibility within ZIP Code 16155, focusing on transportation options and their impact on residents' overall health. We’ll examine drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Villa Maria or residing in the area. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear 'Overall Health Score' based on the ease and efficiency of accessing vital healthcare services.

The foundation of this analysis rests upon the understanding that healthcare access is a cornerstone of individual and community well-being. Proximity to medical facilities, coupled with readily available and reliable transportation, significantly influences health outcomes. This report aims to illuminate the existing infrastructure and highlight potential challenges, providing valuable insights for residents and prospective newcomers alike.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The strategic location of 16155, nestled in Western Pennsylvania, necessitates an understanding of the surrounding roadways. Access to healthcare facilities often hinges on navigating these routes efficiently.

Primary arteries include Interstate 79 (I-79), a major north-south thoroughfare that connects the region to Pittsburgh and beyond. The Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) is another critical route, offering east-west connectivity. Within the zip code and surrounding areas, State Route 224 (SR 224) and State Route 60 (SR 60) serve as crucial local roads, facilitating travel to nearby towns and medical centers.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on location and traffic conditions. UPMC Jameson Hospital in New Castle, a major regional provider, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via I-79 and SR 422. Grove City Medical Center, a smaller community hospital, is accessible within a 15-20 minute drive, typically via SR 224. For specialized care in Pittsburgh, expect travel times of 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the destination and traffic on I-79.

Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact these drive times. Weather conditions, especially during winter months, can further complicate travel, potentially delaying access to essential medical care. Careful consideration of these factors is crucial when assessing the overall accessibility of healthcare within 16155.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. However, the availability and efficiency of public transit in 16155 significantly impact healthcare access.

The primary public transportation provider in the region is the Lawrence County Transit Authority (LCTA). The LCTA offers bus routes throughout Lawrence County, but service frequency and coverage are limited, particularly in rural areas. Routes serving 16155 may have limited schedules, especially on weekends and evenings.

To access healthcare facilities, residents would likely need to utilize LCTA routes that connect to New Castle or Grove City, where hospitals and clinics are located. However, the lack of direct routes and potential for multiple transfers can significantly increase travel time.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. LCTA buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall infrastructure of the transit system can still pose challenges.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to public transit. However, the availability of these services in 16155 may be limited compared to larger urban areas. Ride-share fares can also be a significant expense, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including companies like MedTrans and others. These services require pre-booking and may have associated costs, but they offer a valuable solution for individuals who require assistance with transportation.

**Moving to Villa Maria and Healthcare Access:**

For those considering moving to Villa Maria, the availability and accessibility of healthcare services are paramount. The analysis reveals that while healthcare facilities are within reasonable driving distances, reliance on personal vehicles is high. Public transit options are limited, and ride-sharing availability may be restricted.

Potential residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the implications of limited public transit options. Those who rely on public transportation or require specialized medical transport should thoroughly investigate the availability and cost of these services.

**Overall Health Score:**

Based on the factors analyzed, the 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in 16155 is moderately accessible. The area benefits from the proximity of healthcare facilities and the availability of roadways. However, the limitations of public transit, the potential for limited ride-share availability, and the reliance on personal vehicles, particularly for those without vehicles, lower the score.

Enhancements to public transit, increased ride-share presence, and the availability of affordable medical transport options would significantly improve the overall health score and enhance healthcare access for all residents of 16155. This assessment serves as a starting point for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare accessibility and promote the well-being of the community.