16340, Pittsfield, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16340, Pittsfield, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.11 percent of residents in 16340 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Warren General Hospital with a distance of 12.51 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16340 (Pittsfield, PA)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report analyzes the transportation landscape in ZIP Code 16340 (Pittsfield, Pennsylvania), evaluating its impact on healthcare access and assigning an "Overall Health Score." This score considers drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering **moving to Pittsfield**.

ZIP Code 16340, nestled in the heart of Warren County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural character and limited population density influence the available **transportation** options, directly impacting **healthcare access**. The evaluation focuses on the primary healthcare facilities serving the area and assesses the ease with which residents can reach them.

The primary healthcare provider for the Pittsfield area is Warren General Hospital, located approximately 15 miles south in Warren, PA. This distance, while seemingly manageable, becomes a significant factor when considering the region's road infrastructure and the potential for inclement weather.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The most common mode of **transportation** for residents of 16340 is personal vehicle. Reaching Warren General Hospital necessitates navigating a network of state and local roads. The primary route involves traveling south on **PA-27**, a two-lane highway that can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and school bus routes. The journey then continues onto **US-6**, a major east-west artery.

Under ideal conditions, the drive to Warren General Hospital via PA-27 and US-6 typically takes between 25 to 35 minutes. However, this timeframe is highly susceptible to variations. Adverse weather conditions, common in the region, can significantly increase travel times. Snow and ice can transform the roadways into treacherous passages, potentially doubling or tripling the commute duration.

Beyond Warren General Hospital, other essential medical services, such as specialist appointments or emergency care, may require travel to Erie, PA, approximately 60 miles to the northwest. This journey typically involves taking **PA-27** north to **US-6** west, then connecting to **I-86** and eventually **I-90**. This trip can easily take 1.5 to 2 hours, placing a considerable burden on individuals needing specialized care.

The drive times to these facilities, particularly during unfavorable conditions, significantly impact the Overall Health Score. The potential for delayed access to critical medical care necessitates a careful evaluation of alternative **transportation** options.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

Public transit options within ZIP Code 16340 are extremely limited. The primary provider for Warren County is the Warren County Transit Authority (WCTA). However, WCTA's routes and service frequency are restricted, particularly in rural areas like Pittsfield.

Currently, the WCTA offers limited demand-response services, meaning residents must schedule rides in advance. These services may be available for trips to Warren, but they are not designed for frequent or spontaneous trips to healthcare facilities. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial consideration, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access these services.

The lack of robust public transit significantly diminishes the Overall Health Score. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the challenges of weather and distance, underscores the need for improved **transportation** solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, is limited in the Pittsfield area. While these services might occasionally be available, their reliability and affordability are not guaranteed. The lack of readily available ride-sharing options further compounds the challenges of **healthcare access**.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance getting to medical appointments. Several providers operate in the region, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) companies. These services are often covered by insurance, but their availability and scheduling can be subject to delays.

The presence of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, particularly for those with mobility limitations or those unable to drive. However, the cost and potential for delays associated with these services must be considered when evaluating the Overall Health Score.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis of **transportation** options, the Overall Health Score for accessing healthcare in ZIP Code 16340 is moderate, with significant areas for improvement. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for weather-related delays create barriers to timely and convenient **healthcare access**.

The score is negatively affected by the distance to primary healthcare facilities, the lack of reliable public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services. The presence of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, but their cost and potential for delays must be considered.

To improve the Overall Health Score, several recommendations are essential:

* **Advocate for Expanded Public Transit:** Increased funding and route optimization for the WCTA, including more frequent service and expanded coverage in rural areas, is critical. Exploring partnerships with neighboring counties to facilitate access to healthcare facilities outside of Warren County is also essential.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Encourage the expansion of ride-sharing services in the area. Provide information and support for residents to access medical transport services, including assistance with insurance coverage and scheduling.
* **Invest in Road Infrastructure:** Improve the maintenance and snow removal efforts on PA-27 and US-6 to minimize travel time and improve safety during inclement weather.
* **Community Education:** Educate residents about available **healthcare access** resources, including transportation options, financial assistance programs, and telehealth services.

**Conclusion:**

The ability to access healthcare is a fundamental determinant of community well-being. While ZIP Code 16340 offers a tranquil and scenic environment, the challenges of **transportation** present a significant hurdle to ensuring equitable **healthcare access**. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in public transit, ride-sharing, and road infrastructure is crucial for improving the Overall Health Score and ensuring that all residents have timely and convenient access to the medical care they need. For those **moving to Pittsfield**, understanding these **transportation** challenges is vital in planning for their **healthcare access** needs.