16311, Carlton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16311, Carlton, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.69 percent of residents in 16311 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Meadville Medical Center with a distance of 13.81 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16311 (Carlton, PA)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 16311, focusing on their ability to access healthcare. The score considers the availability of transportation options, drive times to medical facilities, and the accessibility of public transit and alternative transportation services. This information is crucial for individuals considering moving to Carlton, Pennsylvania, as it directly impacts their overall well-being.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Carlton is the relative remoteness of the area. Nestled in rural Pennsylvania, 16311 presents unique challenges regarding transportation. The overall health score for this area reflects these challenges, highlighting the need for careful planning and consideration when it comes to accessing necessary medical services. The score considers drive times, public transportation availability, and the presence of ride-share and medical transport options.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The backbone of transportation in 16311 is the road network, and this is the primary mode of accessing healthcare. The most direct route to significant medical facilities involves driving. Residents rely heavily on Pennsylvania Route 6 (PA-6), a major east-west thoroughfare, for travel. PA-6 provides access to larger towns and cities where hospitals and specialized medical practices are located.

Heading east on PA-6, the closest hospital, UPMC Kane, is approximately a 30-minute drive. This drive involves navigating PA-6 and local roads. The journey can be affected by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, which can significantly increase travel times.

Traveling west on PA-6 leads to larger medical centers in Warren, Pennsylvania. This drive, also approximately 30 minutes, provides access to Warren General Hospital. The route includes PA-6 and other connecting roads. Again, weather conditions and traffic can affect the travel time.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel further. Erie, Pennsylvania, a city with a comprehensive healthcare system, is approximately a 1.5-hour drive via PA-6 and Interstate 86 (I-86). This longer drive necessitates careful planning, especially for appointments and emergencies. This distance emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation and the potential for extended travel times.

The condition of the roads is also a factor. While PA-6 is generally well-maintained, local roads can be less so, particularly in the more rural areas of 16311. This can impact vehicle maintenance and safety, further affecting healthcare access. The overall health score reflects the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential challenges associated with road conditions.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in 16311 are limited, which significantly impacts the overall health score. There is no readily available public bus service that directly connects Carlton to major healthcare facilities. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or are unable to afford the costs of personal vehicle ownership.

The absence of public transportation means that residents are often reliant on family, friends, or alternative transportation services. This can create challenges in terms of scheduling appointments, attending follow-up care, and accessing emergency services. The overall health score reflects the need for improved public transportation options in this area.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally available in more populated areas, and their presence in 16311 is limited. Availability may be sporadic, and wait times can be lengthy, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This lack of consistent ride-share availability further complicates healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in the area. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited depending on the specific needs of the patient. The overall health score acknowledges the role of medical transport services, but also highlights the need for more affordable and accessible options.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features for public transportation and public facilities. However, the limited availability of public transportation in 16311 presents a challenge for individuals with disabilities. The overall health score reflects the need for improved ADA-compliant transportation options to ensure equal access to healthcare.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

While specific medical transport brands may vary, the region is likely served by local ambulance services and private NEMT providers. These providers offer transportation for medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other healthcare needs. Researching and contacting these providers in advance is crucial for residents of 16311 to ensure they have access to necessary transportation.

**Overall Health Score and Implications for Moving to Carlton:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 16311 is moderately low. The primary challenges are the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for lengthy travel times to medical facilities. Individuals considering moving to Carlton should carefully consider these factors and assess their ability to manage transportation needs.

For those who do not drive or have limited mobility, the lack of public transportation and ride-share services presents a significant barrier. The overall health score emphasizes the need for careful planning, reliance on family and friends, or the exploration of medical transport options.

The score also highlights the importance of proactive healthcare management. Residents should establish relationships with local healthcare providers, schedule appointments in advance, and plan for potential travel delays.

Individuals considering moving to Carlton should also research the availability of healthcare services in the area, including primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services. Understanding the local healthcare landscape is essential for ensuring access to necessary medical care.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in 16311 reflects the challenges of rural living and the importance of careful planning. While the area offers a peaceful environment, residents must be prepared to navigate transportation challenges to access necessary medical services. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Carlton, Pennsylvania, as it directly impacts their ability to maintain their health and well-being.