16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.83 percent of residents in 16224 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 10.90 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16224

Fairmount City, Pennsylvania, nestled in ZIP code 16224, offers a tranquil lifestyle, a close-knit community, and a relatively affordable cost of living. However, a crucial factor influencing overall well-being is healthcare access, particularly the ease and efficiency of commuting to medical facilities. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the transportation landscape in 16224, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, helping prospective residents understand the realities of accessing healthcare.

The "Overall Health Score" considers the time, cost, and convenience of reaching various healthcare providers from the heart of Fairmount City. The analysis weighs the availability of transportation options, the accessibility of medical facilities, and the potential impact on residents' health outcomes. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for accessing healthcare within and around this specific ZIP code.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Recovery**

For many residents, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments. Fairmount City's location necessitates reliance on roadways, with drive times significantly impacting the overall health score. The most direct route to larger medical centers, such as the Clarion Hospital (approximately 15 miles), involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 68 and then connecting to Interstate 80.

Driving to Clarion Hospital, a critical healthcare hub, typically takes around 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, this time can fluctuate significantly during peak hours or adverse weather. The route includes a mix of two-lane roads and interstate travel, demanding driver attention and potentially adding stress to an already challenging situation.

Smaller clinics and physician offices are scattered throughout the surrounding communities. Accessing these facilities often involves navigating local roads like Main Street, River Road, and various township roads. These routes, while shorter in distance, can be slower due to lower speed limits, stop signs, and potential congestion.

Emergency situations necessitate swift access to medical care. The drive to the nearest emergency room, typically at Clarion Hospital, is a critical factor in the overall health score. The time required for this journey can be the difference between life and death, emphasizing the importance of efficient road networks and readily available emergency services.

**Public Transit Perspectives: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in 16224 are limited, posing a significant challenge to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The primary provider is the Armstrong County Transportation Authority (ACTA). ACTA offers demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is available for residents of Armstrong County, which includes Fairmount City.

ACTA's demand-response service is a crucial component of healthcare access for those who cannot drive. The service is designed to accommodate medical appointments, but scheduling limitations and potential wait times can impact the overall health score. Residents must plan their trips well in advance, factoring in the time needed for scheduling, pick-up, and drop-off.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. ACTA provides accessible vehicles for individuals with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can access healthcare. However, the limited frequency and the need for advance booking can still present challenges.

The lack of a fixed-route bus system within Fairmount City and the surrounding area significantly impacts the overall health score. The absence of regular, scheduled services limits the options for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. The dependence on demand-response service adds complexity and potential delays to healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Fairmount City area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability and cost can vary. The overall health score is affected by the potential for surge pricing during peak hours or when demand is high.

Ride-sharing provides a more flexible option than public transit, allowing for on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes. The reliability of ride-sharing services is also a factor, as availability can be unpredictable.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring specialized assistance, are another option. These services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those needing stretcher transportation. While providing essential services, medical transport often comes with higher costs, further impacting the overall health score.

The availability of medical transport services is crucial for individuals with specific needs. These services ensure that those who cannot travel independently can still access healthcare. However, the higher cost of these services can place a financial burden on patients and their families.

**The Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in 16224 reflects a mixed picture. While Fairmount City offers a desirable living environment, transportation challenges impact healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to the score.

The most significant challenge is the dependence on personal vehicles. Drive times to medical facilities can be manageable, but traffic and weather conditions can create delays. The limited public transit options and the need for advance scheduling further complicate healthcare access for those without cars.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides crucial alternatives, but their cost and reliability can be barriers. The overall health score is therefore influenced by the individual's circumstances, including their access to a vehicle, their financial resources, and their mobility needs.

**Moving to Fairmount City: A Considered Decision**

For those considering moving to Fairmount City, understanding the transportation landscape is vital. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Individuals who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should research the availability and accessibility of healthcare providers and transportation options.

The overall health score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that can change based on individual circumstances and advancements in transportation infrastructure. The community's efforts to improve public transit, expand ride-sharing services, and enhance medical transport options can significantly impact the score and improve healthcare access for all residents.

Fairmount City offers a welcoming environment and a strong sense of community. However, prospective residents must consider the transportation challenges and carefully plan for healthcare access. Understanding the realities of commuting to medical facilities is crucial for making an informed decision about moving to this charming Pennsylvania town.