16223, Distant, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16223, Distant, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

29.79 percent of residents in 16223 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 15.29 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: ZIP Code 16223

ZIP Code 16223, encompassing the rural expanse of Clarion, Pennsylvania, presents a unique challenge when assessing overall health. Its geographical isolation and limited infrastructure significantly impact residents' ability to access essential healthcare services. This write-up delves into the complexities of "healthcare access" within this area, focusing on "transportation" options, drive times, and the overall impact on the community's health. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for the region.

The primary hurdle for residents of 16223 is the distance to specialized medical facilities. While Clarion Hospital, a critical access hospital, provides essential services, many residents require care from specialists in larger cities. This necessitates travel, adding time, cost, and stress to the healthcare journey. The "Overall Health Score" will reflect these factors, painting a picture of the realities faced by individuals "moving to Distant" medical care.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The road network in 16223 is primarily composed of state routes and local roads. The most crucial artery is **Interstate 80 (I-80)**, which provides the most direct route east and west. However, access to I-80 from many parts of the ZIP code requires navigating winding rural roads. For instance, a trip from the northern reaches of 16223 to UPMC Northwest in Seneca (Venango County), which offers specialized services, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific origin point.

**Route 68** and **Route 322** serve as vital connectors, facilitating travel to Clarion and surrounding towns. These routes, while generally well-maintained, can experience heavy traffic during peak hours, potentially delaying access to care. Travel to Pittsburgh, a major medical hub, via I-80 and then I-79, can easily exceed two hours, making it a significant undertaking for routine appointments or emergency situations. The "Overall Health Score" will consider these extended travel times as a considerable negative factor.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in 16223 are limited. The Clarion County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While the CCTA offers curb-to-curb service, it's not a fixed-route system, meaning it is not a quick way to get to a medical appointment. The CCTA does offer ADA-compliant vehicles. However, the limited operational hours and the need for pre-booking can make it challenging for individuals with urgent medical needs. The "Overall Health Score" will reflect the lack of readily available public transit as a significant barrier to "healthcare access."

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Clarion, but their coverage is inconsistent, particularly in the more remote areas of 16223. Availability may be limited, and surge pricing during peak demand can make these services financially prohibitive for some residents. Medical transport services, such as ambulance services, are available for emergencies, but they are costly. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) options are limited, with some regional providers offering services for scheduled appointments. The "Overall Health Score" will account for the limited and potentially expensive nature of these alternatives.

**Impact on Overall Health:**

The geographical isolation and limited "transportation" options in 16223 have a direct impact on the community's "healthcare access" and, consequently, its overall health. The extended travel times can lead to delayed care, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring specialized treatments. This can result in poorer health outcomes and increased healthcare costs. The difficulty in accessing preventative care, such as routine checkups and screenings, is another concern. The "Overall Health Score" will consider these factors, reflecting the potential for health disparities within the community.

**Specific Considerations:**

* **Elderly Population:** A significant portion of the population in 16223 is elderly. This demographic often faces mobility challenges and relies heavily on accessible "transportation" options. The lack of readily available transportation can severely impact their ability to maintain their health and well-being.
* **Low-Income Residents:** The cost of "transportation," including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing services, can be a significant financial burden for low-income residents. This can further limit their "healthcare access" and exacerbate existing health disparities.
* **Mental Health Services:** Access to mental health services is often limited in rural areas. The need to travel long distances to see a psychiatrist or therapist can be a significant barrier to seeking help, especially for those experiencing mental health crises.

**Overall Health Score Calculation:**

The "Overall Health Score" for ZIP Code 16223 will be calculated based on a weighted average of the following factors:

* **Drive Times to Healthcare Facilities:** This will include the average travel time to Clarion Hospital, UPMC Northwest, and major medical centers in Pittsburgh.
* **Availability of Public Transportation:** This will assess the frequency, coverage, and accessibility of the CCTA and other public transit options.
* **Availability and Affordability of Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** This will consider the cost, availability, and reliability of these services.
* **Demographic Factors:** This will account for the age and income distribution of the population, recognizing the specific challenges faced by vulnerable groups.

**Conclusion:**

ZIP Code 16223 faces significant challenges regarding "healthcare access" due to its geographical isolation and limited "transportation" infrastructure. The extended drive times, limited public transit, and reliance on potentially expensive ride-sharing services create barriers to accessing essential medical care. The "Overall Health Score" for this area will reflect these complexities, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to improve "healthcare access" and promote the health and well-being of the community, especially for those "moving to Distant" medical care. Further investment in public transportation, the promotion of telehealth services, and community-based healthcare initiatives are crucial to address the health disparities faced by residents of 16223.