16313, Clarendon, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16313, Clarendon, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.75 percent of residents in 16313 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Warren General Hospital with a distance of 4.29 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Clarendon, PA (ZIP Code 16313)

Clarendon, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Warren County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering its residents' overall health. This analysis focuses on the crucial element of **healthcare access**, specifically examining the ease and efficiency of **transportation** options available to individuals residing in ZIP code 16313 seeking medical care. We will evaluate the current landscape, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for this community. The information is particularly relevant for those contemplating **moving to Clarendon** and seeking to understand the practicalities of accessing healthcare.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in the ability to physically reach medical facilities. For Clarendon residents, the primary mode of transportation to access healthcare is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The town's location necessitates reliance on roadways, with the primary arteries being Pennsylvania Route 6 (PA-6), which runs east-west, and US Route 62 (US-62), which intersects PA-6 within Clarendon. These highways offer the most direct routes to larger towns and cities where comprehensive medical services are available.

Drive times are a critical factor. The closest significant medical facilities are located in Warren, Pennsylvania, approximately 10-15 minutes away via PA-6. Warren General Hospital is the primary healthcare provider for the region, offering a range of services. However, for specialized care, residents may need to travel further. Erie, Pennsylvania, a larger city with more extensive medical resources, is roughly a 1.5-hour drive via US-6 and Interstate 86 (I-86). This journey presents a significant time commitment, particularly in emergencies or for frequent appointments.

The condition of the roads and weather conditions significantly impact drive times. During the winter months, snow and ice can cause delays and increase the risk of accidents. Additionally, the winding nature of PA-6 and US-62 can make travel slower than expected, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

Public transportation options within Clarendon and the surrounding areas are limited. The Warren County Transportation Authority (WCTA) provides bus services, but their routes and schedules are not designed to cater specifically to medical appointments. While the WCTA operates within Warren County, the frequency of routes and the potential for transfers could significantly extend travel times. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles and routes needs to be carefully assessed to ensure inclusivity for all residents. Detailed information on specific route numbers, schedules, and ADA features must be obtained directly from the WCTA.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Warren County area, but their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and demand. Residents may experience longer wait times or higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability. The reliability of ride-sharing as a primary mode of transportation to medical appointments is, therefore, questionable.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. These services cater to a wide range of needs, from non-emergency medical transport to ambulance services for emergencies. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including local ambulance services and providers specializing in non-emergency medical transportation. These services often require advance booking and may involve specific eligibility criteria. The cost of medical transport can be a significant barrier to access, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources.

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Clarendon, PA (16313) is moderate. The primary strength is the relatively short drive to Warren General Hospital. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the potential cost and logistical challenges associated with medical transport services, all contribute to a less-than-ideal situation. The need to travel to Erie for specialized care adds further complexity and time commitment.

For individuals considering **moving to Clarendon**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is essential. Those with chronic conditions or frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the feasibility of relying on personal vehicles or the availability of alternative transportation options. The potential for weather-related delays and the need to plan for longer travel times to access specialized care should also be considered.

The community could benefit from initiatives to improve healthcare access. This could include exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide discounted transportation for medical appointments, advocating for increased public transportation services, and supporting the expansion of medical transport options. Furthermore, educating residents about available resources and providing assistance with navigating the healthcare system can significantly improve the 'Overall Health Score' for Clarendon residents.

In conclusion, while Clarendon offers a peaceful and scenic environment, its healthcare access presents certain challenges. The 'Overall Health Score' reflects the need for residents to carefully plan and consider their transportation options when seeking medical care. The availability of reliable transportation, the accessibility of medical facilities, and the affordability of healthcare services are all crucial factors in determining the overall health and well-being of the community. The future of healthcare access in Clarendon hinges on the collaborative efforts of residents, healthcare providers, and local authorities to create a more accessible and equitable system.