Overall Health Score

16417, Girard, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 16417, Girard, Pennsylvania

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16417, Girard, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.88 percent of residents in 16417 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Millcreek Community Hospital with a distance of 12.52 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 16417, Girard, Pennsylvania

Overall Health Score 51
People Score 29
Provider Score 74
Hospital Score 48
Travel Score 43

Closest Hospital - MILLCREEK COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 16417 Girard Pennsylvania
No Cars 1.85 1.85 5.04
1 Car 27.74 27.74 21.45
2 Cars 32.80 32.80 41.29
3 or More Cars 37.62 37.62 32.22

Vehicular Access in 16417, Girard, Pennsylvania

Travel Score Review of 16417, Girard, Pennsylvania

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Girard, PA (ZIP Code 16417)

Girard, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Erie County, offers a tranquil, small-town atmosphere, drawing individuals and families seeking a slower pace of life. However, assessing the "Overall Health Score" for residents necessitates a comprehensive examination of their access to healthcare, with transportation playing a pivotal role. This analysis will delve into the complexities of commuting to medical facilities from ZIP code 16417, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Girard and prioritizing their healthcare needs.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in the ability to reach medical professionals and facilities. For residents of Girard, this often translates to navigating the roadways. The primary thoroughfare connecting Girard to Erie, the county seat, is **Interstate 90 (I-90)**. This interstate highway provides a relatively swift route, typically a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. However, relying solely on I-90 can be problematic during inclement weather, common in Northwestern Pennsylvania, potentially increasing travel times and posing safety risks.

Alternatively, **US Route 20** offers a more direct, albeit slower, route. This road winds through the countryside, providing scenic views but also encountering traffic lights and reduced speed limits. The drive to Erie via Route 20 usually takes approximately 35-45 minutes. Local roads like **Route 18** and **Route 98** provide further connectivity, particularly for accessing healthcare facilities in nearby towns like Fairview and Lake City. These routes are generally less congested but can be subject to seasonal road closures or maintenance.

Public transportation, a crucial element of healthcare access, presents a more limited picture in Girard. The **Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA)**, the primary public transit provider for Erie County, does not directly serve Girard with fixed-route bus services. This leaves residents reliant on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or the potential for informal transportation arrangements with friends or family. This lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score" for those without access to a personal vehicle, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

While fixed-route public transit is absent, the EMTA does offer specialized services for individuals with disabilities, known as **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) paratransit**. This service provides door-to-door transportation for those who cannot utilize the regular bus routes due to a disability. However, the availability of ADA paratransit may be limited, requiring advance booking and potentially longer travel times, further complicating healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, have emerged as viable transportation alternatives in many areas. However, their presence in Girard and the surrounding areas may be less consistent compared to larger metropolitan areas. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver density and demand, potentially leading to longer wait times or higher fares, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather. This factor needs consideration when assessing the reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another option. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the Erie County area. These services typically require pre-booking and may involve specific eligibility criteria or associated fees. While these services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance, their availability and cost can influence the "Overall Health Score."

The "Overall Health Score" for residents of Girard (16417) is directly influenced by the accessibility of healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit options, presents challenges for some residents. The drive times to Erie, the primary hub for specialized medical care, can be manageable under ideal conditions but are subject to weather-related delays. The absence of regular EMTA bus service and the potential variability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and resourcefulness.

The availability of ADA paratransit and medical transportation services offers crucial support for specific populations, but their limitations must be acknowledged. Those considering moving to Girard must carefully assess their individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements.

Factors such as age, mobility, income, and access to social support networks significantly impact an individual's ability to navigate the transportation landscape and access healthcare. For example, an elderly resident without a driver's license may face considerable challenges in reaching medical appointments, while a younger, employed individual with a reliable vehicle may experience fewer difficulties.

The "Overall Health Score" in Girard, PA, therefore, reflects a nuanced reality. While the community offers a peaceful environment, its healthcare access is inextricably linked to transportation infrastructure and service availability. The ability to reach medical facilities efficiently and reliably is paramount to maintaining good health and well-being.

For those considering moving to Girard, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. This includes evaluating their access to a personal vehicle, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential reliance on medical transportation options. Understanding the complexities of commuting to healthcare is a critical component of making an informed decision and ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life in Girard.

The "Overall Health Score" for Girard, therefore, is not simply a number but a reflection of the community's ability to connect its residents with the healthcare they need. Addressing the transportation challenges, expanding public transit options, and promoting awareness of available resources are vital steps toward improving the "Overall Health Score" and creating a healthier community for all residents.

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Health Scores Near 16417, Girard, Pennsylvania

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