16353, Tionesta, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16353, Tionesta, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.36 percent of residents in 16353 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 15.90 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16353 (Tionesta, PA)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 16353, focusing specifically on the accessibility of healthcare services. It considers various transportation methods, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, to assess the ease with which individuals can reach necessary medical appointments and facilities. The score reflects the potential impact of transportation limitations on overall health and well-being, a crucial factor for those considering moving to Tionesta.

**The Importance of Transportation and Healthcare Access**

Healthcare access is a fundamental determinant of health outcomes. The ability to reach medical providers, whether for routine checkups, specialized treatments, or emergency care, significantly impacts an individual's ability to manage chronic conditions, prevent illness, and recover from injuries. Transportation barriers can create significant obstacles, especially in rural areas like Tionesta, where distances to healthcare facilities may be considerable. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape and its implications for healthcare access in the region.

**Driving Times and Road Conditions: A Personal Vehicle Perspective**

The primary mode of transportation in Tionesta is the personal vehicle. Residents rely on their cars for daily commutes, including trips to healthcare providers. The drive times to various healthcare facilities depend heavily on the destination and the prevailing road conditions.

The closest major medical facilities are in Oil City, approximately 30 miles away. The primary route is via **PA-36 South** and **US-62 South**. Under normal driving conditions, this trip takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour. Further specialized care, like that offered in Erie, necessitates a drive of approximately 100 miles. This journey involves navigating **PA-36 South** to **US-6 South**, then connecting to **I-79 North**. This trip can take over two hours, depending on traffic and weather.

Road conditions in the area can vary significantly. **PA-36** and **US-62** are generally well-maintained, but can experience delays due to seasonal weather, particularly snow and ice during winter months. **I-79** is a major interstate and usually experiences less congestion, but potential accidents can cause significant delays. Residents must account for these factors when planning medical appointments, ensuring sufficient travel time to avoid missing scheduled visits.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Tionesta are severely limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. There is no local bus service within the immediate area. The primary public transit option is provided by the **Warren County Transportation Authority (WCTA)**.

The WCTA offers demand-response services, meaning that riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service operates within Warren County, and may provide limited access to healthcare facilities in nearby communities. It is crucial to inquire about the WCTA's service area and scheduling requirements to determine its suitability for healthcare-related travel. ADA-accessible vehicles are available, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limited availability and scheduling constraints of the WCTA can still pose challenges for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternatives and Limitations**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not readily available in Tionesta. The sparse population and geographical isolation make it economically unviable for these companies to operate in the area. This lack of ride-sharing options further restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or medical conditions that prevent them from driving. Several specialized medical transport companies operate in the region, including **STAT MedEvac** and **Guardian Angel Medical Service**. These services provide non-emergency and emergency transportation to medical facilities, often utilizing specialized vehicles equipped with medical equipment and trained personnel. However, these services can be expensive and may require prior authorization or insurance coverage, creating financial barriers for some residents.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access within Reach**

While Tionesta itself is a small community, residents have access to a range of healthcare providers within a reasonable driving distance. The **Tionesta Area Medical Center** provides primary care services and is a crucial local resource. However, for specialized care, residents often need to travel to larger towns and cities like Oil City, Warren, and Erie.

The **UPMC Northwest** in Oil City offers a broader range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized clinics. **Warren General Hospital** in Warren provides comprehensive medical services and is another important healthcare destination. The **UPMC Hamot** and **Saint Vincent Hospital** in Erie offer a comprehensive range of specialty care, including advanced medical treatments and research facilities. The distance and travel time to these facilities can significantly impact healthcare access, particularly for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Based on the analysis of transportation options and healthcare access in ZIP Code 16353, the Overall Health Score is **moderate to low**. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit and ride-sharing options, creates significant transportation barriers for individuals without access to a car. The distance to specialized medical facilities and the potential for weather-related delays further exacerbate these challenges.

While local primary care services are available, the need to travel to larger cities for specialized care and the lack of readily available transportation options can negatively impact healthcare access. This is a critical consideration for anyone moving to Tionesta, as it directly impacts their ability to maintain their health and well-being.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Tionesta**

Individuals considering moving to Tionesta should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those without access to a personal vehicle should explore alternative transportation options, such as the WCTA (Warren County Transportation Authority) and medical transport services, and factor the associated costs and scheduling constraints into their planning.

It is essential to research the availability of healthcare services in the area and the travel times to various medical facilities. Individuals with chronic conditions or specialized healthcare needs should consider the potential impact of transportation limitations on their ability to access necessary care.

Finally, prospective residents should be aware of the potential for weather-related travel disruptions, particularly during winter months. Planning for potential delays and having backup transportation options in place is crucial for ensuring continued access to healthcare services.