16220, Crown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16220, Crown, Pennsylvania is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.46 percent of residents in 16220 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 16.63 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16220

Nestled within the scenic embrace of Clarion County, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 16220, encompassing the charming borough of Crown, presents a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities when assessing overall health. This write-up delves into the intricacies of healthcare access within this locale, focusing on the crucial element of transportation. We will analyze drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability to formulate an "Overall Health Score," providing a comprehensive view for residents and those considering **moving to Crown**.

The foundation of good health rests upon timely and convenient access to medical care. For the residents of 16220, this access is largely dictated by the availability and efficiency of **transportation** options. The geographical layout of Crown, with its rural character and limited infrastructure, presents inherent hurdles. Our assessment will weigh these factors, aiming to paint a realistic picture of the healthcare landscape.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

The primary mode of transportation in 16220 is the personal vehicle. The ease of accessing healthcare hinges significantly on drive times to various medical facilities. Clarion Hospital, a cornerstone of local healthcare, is a reasonable drive, generally accessible within 20-30 minutes via **Pennsylvania Route 66**. This route, while well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times.

For specialized care, residents often need to travel further afield. The city of DuBois, approximately an hour's drive via **Interstate 80** and **Pennsylvania Route 219**, offers a broader range of specialists and hospital services. Similarly, Pittsburgh, a major medical hub, is a considerable 2-3 hour journey, primarily via **Interstate 80** and **Interstate 79**. These longer drives necessitate careful planning, especially for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

The condition of the roads also plays a role. Winter weather, common in this region, can significantly impact drive times and safety. Snow and ice can transform a 30-minute drive into a precarious hour-long journey, underscoring the importance of reliable vehicles and winter driving preparedness.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit in 16220 is limited. The Clarion County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides some services, but routes and schedules are often restricted, particularly for rural areas. Access to medical appointments via CCTA can be challenging, requiring advance booking and potentially involving multiple transfers.

The CCTA buses, while offering a lifeline for some, may not always be the most practical option for healthcare access. The frequency of service, especially to more distant medical facilities, might be insufficient. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses is crucial, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. While CCTA strives to meet these needs, the limited resources in a rural setting can present difficulties.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in 16220. Availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability can pose a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a more specialized solution. These services are essential for patients requiring assistance with mobility or those needing transport to appointments. However, the cost of these services can be a significant burden, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources. The availability of NEMT providers and the insurance coverage for these services are critical factors in healthcare accessibility.

**The Overall Health Score: A Composite Assessment**

Given the factors outlined above, we can begin to formulate an "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in 16220. This score will consider the following:

* **Drive Time Accessibility:** The proximity and ease of access to local healthcare facilities, including primary care physicians, urgent care centers, and the Clarion Hospital.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** The availability, frequency, and ADA-compliance of CCTA services.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The presence of ride-sharing services and the accessibility of medical transport options.
* **Road Conditions and Weather Impact:** The influence of road conditions, especially during winter, on travel times and safety.
* **Cost of Transportation:** The financial burden associated with accessing healthcare, including the cost of fuel, public transit fares, and medical transport services.

Based on these factors, 16220 presents a mixed picture. While Clarion Hospital offers relatively convenient access, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services is a concern, and the cost of medical transport can be prohibitive.

The Overall Health Score for 16220 would likely fall in the moderate range. The score would be negatively impacted by the limited public transit options, the potential for longer drive times to specialized care, and the uncertainties surrounding ride-sharing availability. However, the proximity to Clarion Hospital and the presence of medical transport services would mitigate some of these challenges.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To enhance healthcare access in 16220, several improvements are recommended. Increasing the frequency and expanding the routes of the CCTA, particularly to include more direct routes to medical facilities, would be beneficial. Incentivizing ride-sharing services to operate in the area could also help.

Furthermore, promoting the availability of telehealth services could reduce the need for in-person visits, especially for routine check-ups and follow-up appointments. Community initiatives aimed at providing transportation assistance to those in need, such as volunteer driver programs, could also make a significant difference.

**Conclusion: A Path Forward**

For those considering **moving to Crown**, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is essential. While 16220 offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the limitations in **transportation** options present a challenge to healthcare accessibility. By addressing these challenges through strategic investments in public transit, ride-sharing, and telehealth services, the overall health score for 16220 can be significantly improved, ensuring that residents have timely and convenient access to the medical care they need. The future of healthcare in Crown depends on proactive measures that bridge the gap between residents and the medical services they require.