16236, Mc Grann, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16236, Mc Grann, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

26.79 percent of residents in 16236 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Acmh Hospital with a distance of 2.98 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16236

Nestled along the Allegheny River, ZIP Code 16236, encompassing the charming community of Mc Grann, presents a unique landscape for evaluating overall health. This score, a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access, considers the crucial element of transportation, the vital link connecting residents to essential medical services. The ability to reach a doctor's office, hospital, or pharmacy significantly influences well-being, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly or those with chronic conditions. The following analysis explores the available options, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, to provide a clear picture of healthcare accessibility in this specific locale.

The primary challenge for residents of Mc Grann, and indeed much of rural Pennsylvania, lies in the geographical remoteness. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are often situated in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. This geographical reality dictates the importance of transportation infrastructure. The primary thoroughfare serving the area is **Pennsylvania Route 28**, a vital artery connecting Mc Grann to the larger urban centers. This route, however, can experience congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours, potentially delaying access to critical medical care.

Navigating to healthcare appointments often requires traversing the **Pennsylvania Route 66**, which intersects with Route 28. This road offers a more direct, albeit sometimes winding, path to certain medical facilities. Additional local roads, such as **State Route 839**, provide access to smaller towns and medical practices. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can impact travel times and safety. The maintenance of these roads, therefore, directly affects the overall health score.

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 16236 are limited. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles. This situation necessitates reliance on alternative modes of transportation, which can be less reliable and more costly. The lack of frequent and accessible public transit poses a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals with disabilities or those who cannot drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution, but their availability in rural areas like Mc Grann can be sporadic. The cost of these services, especially for longer distances, can also be prohibitive for some residents. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is not guaranteed. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to the already challenging task of accessing healthcare.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a crucial lifeline. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport brands, such as **MedStar** and **Ambulette**, operate in the region, offering scheduled transportation. However, availability and wait times can vary, and the cost of these services can be a significant financial burden.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on any public transit would be a critical factor in the overall health score. Unfortunately, with the lack of public transit in the area, this is not a factor. If a medical transport service is used, ADA compliance is a must.

The distance to healthcare facilities is a significant factor. The nearest hospitals, such as **Armstrong County Memorial Hospital** in Kittanning and **Clarion Hospital** in Clarion, require a drive of approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Specialist appointments often necessitate travel to Pittsburgh, a journey that can take over an hour, further increasing the time commitment and potential stress associated with seeking medical care. This distance factor underscores the importance of reliable transportation options.

The impact of these transportation challenges is multifaceted. Delays in accessing medical care can lead to delayed diagnoses, delayed treatment, and potentially poorer health outcomes. The financial burden of transportation costs can also strain household budgets, particularly for low-income families. This financial strain can lead to individuals forgoing necessary medical appointments, further exacerbating health disparities.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 16236 is significantly impacted by the limitations of transportation. While the presence of major highways and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offer some relief, the lack of public transit and the geographical remoteness of healthcare facilities create considerable barriers. The cost, reliability, and accessibility of transportation options directly influence the ability of residents to access timely and appropriate medical care.

Moving to Mc Grann requires careful consideration of these transportation challenges. Individuals with chronic health conditions or limited mobility should be particularly mindful of the potential difficulties in accessing healthcare. Careful planning and proactive measures, such as establishing relationships with local medical transport providers and considering the proximity of healthcare facilities, can help mitigate these challenges.

The overall health score in this ZIP Code reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the community boasts a strong sense of neighborliness and a beautiful natural environment, the limitations in transportation infrastructure pose a significant challenge to healthcare access. Addressing these transportation barriers through strategic investments in public transit, ride-sharing initiatives, and enhanced medical transport services could dramatically improve the overall health score and the well-being of the residents of Mc Grann.