16217, Cooksburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16217, Cooksburg, Pennsylvania is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.72 percent of residents in 16217 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 14.96 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Cooksburg, PA (ZIP Code 16217)

Cooksburg, nestled within the heart of the Allegheny National Forest, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health. Its remote location, while offering tranquility, significantly impacts access to vital healthcare services. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 16217, delves into the intricacies of transportation options and their influence on healthcare access, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on these factors. Prospective residents considering moving to Cooksburg must carefully weigh these considerations.

The primary challenge in this assessment is the geographical isolation. Cooksburg’s limited population and proximity to the forest dictate the availability and efficiency of transportation options. The Overall Health Score will be heavily influenced by the drive times to medical facilities, the viability of public transit, and the presence of alternative transportation solutions. The score reflects a composite of these factors, with a higher score indicating better access.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Cooksburg is the automobile. Driving times to the nearest hospitals and clinics form the foundation of our assessment. The primary thoroughfare serving the area is **Pennsylvania Route 36**, which connects Cooksburg to larger towns and cities. Navigating this road, particularly during inclement weather, can be challenging, adding to the commute time.

The closest major healthcare provider is **Clarion Hospital**, located approximately 25 miles west of Cooksburg. The drive, primarily on Route 36, typically takes around 35-45 minutes under ideal conditions. However, factors like traffic, weather, and the winding nature of the road can significantly extend this time.

Another option, though further afield, is **UPMC Northwest in Seneca**, roughly 45 miles north. This drive involves Route 36 and then **Pennsylvania Route 66**, and can consume an hour or more, making it less desirable for urgent medical needs.

Smaller clinics and doctor's offices are scattered throughout the region, but their specialized services may be limited. The drive times to these facilities, while shorter, may not always provide the comprehensive care required.

**Public Transportation: A Sparse Reality**

Public transportation options in Cooksburg are extremely limited. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly impacts the Overall Health Score. There are no dedicated bus routes or rail lines serving the immediate area. This lack of public transit poses a substantial barrier to healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents.

While some regional transportation services might exist, they are unlikely to offer regular routes or convenient schedules. Such services often require advance booking and may have limited operating hours, making them unsuitable for emergencies or spontaneous medical appointments. The absence of ADA-accessible features on any potential public transit options further diminishes the accessibility for those with mobility impairments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Limited Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a limited presence in rural areas like Cooksburg. Their availability is often unpredictable, and surge pricing can make them prohibitively expensive. Relying on ride-sharing for routine medical appointments or emergency situations is not a reliable option.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by ambulance companies and specialized patient transport providers, are available but primarily for emergency situations or pre-scheduled appointments. These services are often costly and may not be readily available for less urgent healthcare needs. They are not a substitute for accessible public transit or readily available ride-sharing.

**Impact on the Overall Health Score**

Given the constraints of transportation, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Cooksburg is negatively impacted. The reliance on personal vehicles and the long drive times to healthcare facilities create significant challenges. The lack of public transit, limited ride-sharing options, and the high cost of medical transportation further exacerbate these difficulties.

The score reflects the inherent vulnerability of residents in this area. Individuals without access to a car face significant hurdles in accessing timely and appropriate medical care. The elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income individuals are particularly at risk.

**Considerations for Prospective Residents**

Individuals considering moving to Cooksburg must carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. The remoteness of the area necessitates careful planning and preparedness.

* **Vehicle Ownership:** Owning a reliable vehicle is essential for accessing healthcare.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Develop a plan for medical emergencies, including identifying the nearest hospitals and emergency services.
* **Proactive Healthcare:** Schedule routine check-ups and preventative care to minimize the need for urgent medical attention.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure adequate health insurance coverage to cover medical expenses and transportation costs.
* **Alternative Support:** Explore the availability of local support networks, such as volunteer drivers or community health programs.

**Conclusion**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Cooksburg, PA (16217) is moderate. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, the limited transportation options present significant challenges to accessing healthcare. Prospective residents must carefully consider these factors and develop a comprehensive plan to ensure their healthcare needs are met. The absence of readily available public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles significantly impact the overall health and well-being of the community. The drive times, the scarcity of ride-sharing, and the high cost of medical transportation all contribute to a less-than-ideal healthcare access landscape.