16321, East Hickory, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16321, East Hickory, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.82 percent of residents in 16321 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Titusville Hospital with a distance of 14.90 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16321 (East Hickory, PA)

This assessment provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 16321, focusing on the critical aspect of **healthcare access** through various **transportation** options. East Hickory, Pennsylvania, a community nestled within the rolling hills of the Allegheny National Forest, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing medical care. The analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transport options to paint a comprehensive picture of the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare services.

The overall health score is a composite of factors, recognizing that access to healthcare is not merely about the presence of facilities but also the ability to reach them efficiently and affordably. This includes the time it takes to travel, the availability of suitable transport, and the financial burden associated with the journey. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the current situation and highlight areas where improvements could significantly impact the well-being of the East Hickory community.

**Drive Times: The Primary Mode of Transportation**

For residents of 16321, personal vehicles are the predominant mode of transport. The geography of the area, characterized by dispersed populations and limited public transit, makes driving the most practical option for most residents. Accessing healthcare often necessitates navigating the winding roads and scenic routes that define this part of Pennsylvania.

The primary route to the nearest major healthcare facilities involves traveling on **Pennsylvania Route 666**, a crucial artery connecting East Hickory to larger towns like Tionesta and Warren. Travel times can vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day. Reaching the UPMC Kane hospital, a key healthcare provider, typically requires a drive of approximately 45 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This journey involves navigating **PA-666** and then connecting to **PA-6** or **US-62**.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel further afield. The journey to Warren General Hospital, another important regional facility, also takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on the specific route taken. This trip primarily involves **PA-666** and **US-62**. The distance to larger medical centers in cities like Erie, offering a wider range of specialized services, can easily exceed two hours, highlighting the significant time commitment involved in accessing specialized care.

Weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can significantly impact drive times. Snow and ice can make roads treacherous, increasing travel times and potentially hindering access to care. Residents must be prepared for these seasonal challenges and ensure their vehicles are properly equipped for winter driving.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options within and around 16321 are extremely limited. The lack of a robust public transportation system poses a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive. The area's rural nature and low population density make it difficult to justify the investment in extensive public transit infrastructure.

The **Warren County Transportation Authority (WCTA)** offers some limited services, but these are primarily focused on connecting Warren with surrounding areas. The WCTA routes, while providing some level of connectivity, may not directly serve East Hickory. Furthermore, the frequency of service is limited, and routes may not align with the specific needs of healthcare appointments.

Individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations face additional challenges. While the WCTA is mandated to provide ADA-compliant services, the limited scope of their operations and the potential for long travel times can still create barriers to healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Warren area but may not be consistently available in East Hickory itself. The availability of these services depends on driver density and demand, which can fluctuate. Residents may need to schedule rides in advance and may experience longer wait times compared to urban areas.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services cater to individuals with mobility issues, those who need stretcher transport, or those who require medical supervision during transport.

Several medical transport providers serve the Warren County area, including **STAT MedEvac** and **AMR (American Medical Response)**. These services can provide non-emergency medical transport, as well as emergency ambulance services. The cost of medical transport can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the insurance coverage of the patient.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in 16321 is impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the challenges associated with ride-share and medical transport. The geographical isolation of East Hickory, combined with the dispersed population, creates significant barriers to accessing healthcare.

The long drive times to healthcare facilities, the potential for weather-related delays, and the limited availability of alternative **transportation** options contribute to a less-than-ideal situation. Residents may face difficulties attending regular appointments, accessing specialized care, and responding to medical emergencies.

**Moving to East Hickory** requires an understanding of these challenges. Prospective residents should consider the implications for their healthcare needs and assess their ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving **healthcare access** in 16321 requires a multi-pronged approach. Increasing the availability of public transit, even in a limited capacity, could benefit residents who do not have access to a car. Exploring partnerships with ride-share companies to ensure consistent service in the area could also be beneficial.

Supporting telemedicine initiatives, which allow patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, can help mitigate the challenges associated with long travel times. Promoting community outreach programs that educate residents about available **transportation** options and healthcare resources is also essential.

Finally, advocating for policies that support the expansion of healthcare services in the area, such as the establishment of a local clinic or the recruitment of healthcare professionals, would significantly improve the overall health score for residents of 16321. Investing in the health of the community is an investment in the future of East Hickory.