16312, Chandlers Valley, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16312, Chandlers Valley, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 16312 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Warren General Hospital with a distance of 9.99 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16312 (Chandlers Valley, PA)

Chandlers Valley, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16312), a serene community nestled amidst the rolling hills of Warren County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering its overall health score, particularly concerning **healthcare access**. This analysis delves into the multifaceted aspects of **transportation** options available to residents, evaluating drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport to paint a comprehensive picture. The goal is to determine the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical facilities, influencing their overall well-being and the desirability of **moving to Chandlers Valley**.

The primary determinant of **healthcare access** in 16312 is the reliance on personal vehicles. The rural landscape, while picturesque, necessitates car ownership for most residents. The major roadways serving the area are Route 6 and Route 948. Driving to the nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers in Warren and surrounding areas is a critical consideration.

The closest hospital, Warren General Hospital, is approximately a 20-25 minute drive via Route 6 East. This is generally a straightforward commute, though weather conditions, especially during the harsh Pennsylvania winters, can significantly impact travel times. The route is generally well-maintained, but potential delays due to accidents or construction are always a possibility.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further. UPMC Hamot in Erie, Pennsylvania, a regional medical center, is roughly a 1-hour and 15-minute drive via Route 6 West and Interstate 86 West. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially for appointments or emergencies. The I-86 portion of the journey is generally smooth, but traffic congestion in Erie can add to the travel time.

Another option, though a bit more distant, is to seek care at facilities in Jamestown, New York. This is a drive of approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, primarily via Route 62 North and Interstate 86 East. This route offers access to a range of medical services, but the longer distance adds to the burden of **transportation**.

Public transit options in 16312 are limited. The Warren County Transit Authority (WCTA) provides some bus service within the county, but the routes and schedules may not adequately serve the specific needs of residents in Chandlers Valley. The WCTA offers some ADA-accessible vehicles, but the frequency of service and the coverage area might pose challenges for those with mobility limitations or who are dependent on public **transportation**. Information on specific route numbers and schedules is crucial for residents relying on this mode of travel.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments is risky, as delays or cancellations could disrupt crucial care. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available in 16312. Ambulance services are crucial for emergencies, but NEMT services are essential for those needing assistance with non-emergency appointments. The availability and responsiveness of these services are vital for ensuring timely **healthcare access**. The specific providers serving the area, their service areas, and their cost structures are important considerations.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in 16312 is moderately impacted by the **transportation** options. While the proximity to Warren General Hospital offers a relatively quick option, the need for personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services pose challenges. The longer travel times to specialized medical centers in Erie and Jamestown further complicate the situation.

The lack of readily available and reliable **transportation** options is a significant barrier for some residents. Those without personal vehicles, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities face considerable difficulty in reaching medical appointments. This can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially impacting their health outcomes.

The cost of **transportation** is another factor. The expense of owning and maintaining a vehicle, combined with the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport, can strain household budgets. This financial burden can further limit **healthcare access**, particularly for low-income residents.

The assessment of **healthcare access** in 16312 must also consider the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth can provide a convenient alternative for certain types of appointments, reducing the need for travel. The availability of reliable internet access is crucial for utilizing telehealth effectively.

When **moving to Chandlers Valley**, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs and consider the potential challenges of accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning.

The overall health score in 16312 is not solely determined by the availability of **transportation**. Other factors, such as the quality of medical care, the availability of specialists, and the prevalence of chronic diseases, also play a role. However, the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities is a critical determinant of their overall well-being.

In conclusion, while 16312 offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the limitations in **transportation** options present a moderate challenge to **healthcare access**. Residents must rely heavily on personal vehicles, and those without cars or with mobility limitations face significant hurdles. The availability of telehealth services and the potential for ride-sharing services provide some relief, but the overall health score is influenced by the need for careful planning and consideration of **transportation** needs. The desirability of **moving to Chandlers Valley** should include a thorough assessment of **healthcare access** and the ability to navigate the available **transportation** landscape.