16263, Yatesboro, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16263, Yatesboro, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.32 percent of residents in 16263 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Acmh Hospital with a distance of 12.02 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16263

Assessing the overall health of a community involves considering numerous factors, with **healthcare access** playing a pivotal role. This analysis focuses on the accessibility of medical services for residents of ZIP Code 16263, specifically Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, evaluating the available **transportation** options and their impact on timely and convenient healthcare visits. Understanding the nuances of travel, from personal vehicles to public transit, is crucial for determining the overall health score, especially for those considering **moving to Yatesboro**.

The primary challenge for Yatesboro residents lies in its relative isolation. The town is nestled in a rural landscape, with limited direct access to major healthcare facilities. This geographical constraint significantly influences the ease and efficiency of reaching medical appointments, impacting the overall health score. The distance to specialized care, in particular, becomes a significant consideration.

For those who rely on personal vehicles, the primary arteries for healthcare access are Pennsylvania Route 28/66 and U.S. Route 422. These roadways are essential for navigating the region, connecting Yatesboro to larger towns and cities where medical services are concentrated. The drive time to the nearest hospitals, such as Armstrong County Memorial Hospital in Kittanning (approximately 15-20 minutes) or UPMC East in Monroeville (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic), is a critical factor. The condition of these roads, especially during inclement weather, can further complicate travel and impact the overall health score.

The journey to Kittanning involves a relatively straightforward drive on Route 28/66, offering a more direct route. However, the trip to Monroeville, which houses more specialized care, necessitates a longer journey, often involving a combination of Route 28/66 and U.S. Route 22. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Public **transportation** options in the area are limited. The Armstrong County Transit Authority (ACTA) provides bus services, but routes and frequency are often restricted, particularly in rural areas like Yatesboro. ACTA does offer demand-response services, which may be available with advance notice, but they are not always reliable or convenient for urgent medical needs. Details on specific routes serving Yatesboro and their frequency are essential for a complete assessment. Information on ADA accessibility features on ACTA buses is also crucial for evaluating the health score for individuals with disabilities.

The availability of ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, is another factor to consider. While these services may be present in the area, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Furthermore, the cost of ride-share services can be a significant financial burden for some residents, potentially deterring them from seeking necessary medical care. The reliability and affordability of ride-share options directly impact the overall health score.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with mobility challenges or specific medical needs, also play a role. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) may operate in the area, offering services such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. However, the availability, cost, and insurance coverage for these services vary, and they are not always readily accessible, especially for urgent situations. Researching the specific medical transport brands operating in the area and their service areas is crucial.

The overall health score for Yatesboro residents is therefore impacted by a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public **transportation**, the potential unreliability of ride-share services, and the availability of medical **transportation** all contribute to the overall picture. The distance to healthcare facilities, coupled with the often-limited availability of alternative **transportation** options, poses a significant challenge to **healthcare access**.

The impact of these **transportation** limitations is particularly pronounced for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. These groups may face greater difficulties in accessing timely and appropriate medical care, leading to poorer health outcomes. The overall health score must reflect these disparities.

To improve the overall health score, several interventions are possible. Enhancing public **transportation** options, particularly by increasing route frequency and extending service hours, would be beneficial. Exploring partnerships with ride-share companies to offer subsidized or discounted services for medical appointments could also be considered. Furthermore, promoting the availability and accessibility of medical **transportation** services, including providing information about insurance coverage and financial assistance programs, would be crucial.

For individuals considering **moving to Yatesboro**, a thorough understanding of the **transportation** landscape and its implications for **healthcare access** is essential. Prospective residents should carefully assess their own **transportation** needs and the availability of resources to meet those needs. This includes evaluating the reliability of personal vehicles, the feasibility of using public **transportation**, and the potential cost of ride-share or medical **transportation** services.

The availability of telehealth services can also mitigate some of the **transportation** challenges. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on factors such as internet access, digital literacy, and the type of medical care required. The overall health score must reflect the availability and utilization of telehealth services.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 16263, specifically Yatesboro, is influenced by the challenges associated with **transportation** to **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-share services, and the availability of medical **transportation** all contribute to the overall picture. Improving public **transportation**, exploring partnerships with ride-share companies, and promoting the availability of medical **transportation** services are crucial steps to improve the overall health score and ensure that all residents have access to the medical care they need.