16235, Lucinda, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16235, Lucinda, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.28 percent of residents in 16235 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 9.18 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Lucinda, PA (ZIP Code 16235)

The pursuit of optimal health in Lucinda, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16235), is intricately linked to the ease and efficiency with which residents can access healthcare services. This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" by meticulously examining the transportation landscape, a critical determinant of healthcare access within this rural community. The analysis encompasses drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities facing Lucinda residents.

Lucinda, nestled in the heart of Clarion County, is a haven of natural beauty. However, its rural setting presents unique transportation hurdles. Healthcare access is often dictated by the availability of reliable and convenient transportation, making this assessment crucial for residents and those considering moving to Lucinda. The ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and specialized care facilities directly impacts overall health outcomes.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary arteries connecting Lucinda to healthcare facilities are Pennsylvania Route 66 and Pennsylvania Route 36. These roads, while providing direct access, can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. The distance to the nearest hospital, Clarion Hospital in Clarion, is approximately 10 miles, a drive that typically takes around 15-20 minutes under ideal conditions. However, weather conditions, common in Pennsylvania, can significantly extend this travel time, potentially impacting timely access to care.

For specialized medical services, residents often need to travel further afield. The drive to UPMC Northwest in Seneca, PA, is roughly 30 miles, translating to a 45-60 minute drive. This extended travel time underscores the importance of reliable transportation, especially for those requiring regular appointments or experiencing medical emergencies. The roads, while generally well-maintained, can present challenges during winter months, further complicating access.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Lucinda are limited. The Clarion County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides demand-response transportation services within Clarion County. However, fixed-route bus service is not available directly in Lucinda. Residents requiring public transit must arrange for a CCTA ride, which necessitates advance booking and may involve transfer points.

CCTA vehicles are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair accessibility. However, the limited service frequency and the need for pre-booking pose challenges for those requiring immediate or unscheduled medical attention. The reliance on demand-response services can also lead to longer travel times compared to private transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in Lucinda. Availability is not guaranteed, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This lack of readily available ride-sharing options further emphasizes the reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged transportation.

Specialized medical transport services are available in the area. Ambulance services are provided by Clarion Hospital and volunteer fire departments. These services are primarily for emergency situations. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, such as Medical Transportation Management (MTM), are available to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often require prior authorization and may have specific eligibility criteria.

**Overall Health Score and Implications:**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Lucinda, PA (ZIP Code 16235), is moderately impacted by the limitations in transportation options. While the proximity to Clarion Hospital offers relatively quick access to basic medical care, the dependence on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create potential barriers.

The absence of readily accessible and reliable transportation can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, potentially impacting the timely diagnosis and treatment of health conditions. This is particularly concerning for individuals with chronic illnesses, those with mobility limitations, and those without access to personal vehicles. The long drive times to specialized healthcare facilities further exacerbate these challenges.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" and enhance healthcare access for Lucinda residents, several strategies are recommended. Expanding the CCTA's service area or frequency, particularly to connect with neighboring towns with greater healthcare resources, could significantly benefit residents. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to improve availability and affordability would also be beneficial.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of NEMT options and assisting residents in navigating the eligibility and booking processes is crucial. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road maintenance and snow removal, can enhance the reliability of transportation, especially during winter months.

For those considering moving to Lucinda, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. The availability of a personal vehicle or the ability to arrange for reliable transportation is critical. Understanding the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services is also important.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Lucinda, PA (ZIP Code 16235), reflects the challenges of rural healthcare access. While the community offers a tranquil lifestyle, the transportation landscape presents obstacles that can impact health outcomes. By addressing the limitations in transportation infrastructure and service availability, Lucinda can strive to create a healthier and more accessible environment for all its residents. The focus must be on improving transportation; healthcare access is directly tied to the well-being of the community.