16426, Mc Kean, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16426, Mc Kean, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.90 percent of residents in 16426 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Millcreek Community Hospital with a distance of 5.61 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16426

ZIP Code 16426, encompassing the charming town of McKean, Pennsylvania, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, intricately linked to the ease and efficiency with which residents can access healthcare. This analysis delves into the transportation infrastructure, a critical determinant of healthcare access, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on the realities of commuting to medical facilities. The score reflects the challenges and opportunities present for residents seeking timely and convenient medical care.

The score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transportation services. It also incorporates the geographical constraints of the region and the potential impact on health outcomes. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare access landscape for those living in or considering moving to McKean.

McKean, nestled in Erie County, is a relatively rural community, meaning transportation options are inherently limited compared to more urban areas. The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The road network, while generally well-maintained, dictates the time and effort required to reach medical facilities. The "Overall Health Score" will reflect this reliance on personal vehicles and the potential barriers this creates.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Healthcare Access**

The most direct route to healthcare facilities from McKean typically involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 99, a vital artery connecting the town to the larger Erie metropolitan area. Traveling south on Route 99 provides access to various medical providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals. However, traffic, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

Heading north on Route 99 offers access to some healthcare options, but the majority of comprehensive medical facilities are located south. Route 99 connects with Interstate 90 (I-90), a major east-west thoroughfare, allowing for faster travel to more distant healthcare providers. However, the distance traveled on I-90 can be substantial, potentially adding to the overall commute time.

The drive to UPMC Hamot, a major hospital in Erie, is approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within McKean. This relatively short drive time contributes positively to the "Overall Health Score." Other medical facilities, such as Millcreek Community Hospital, are also accessible within a similar timeframe.

However, the drive to specialized clinics or hospitals outside of Erie, such as those in Pittsburgh or Cleveland, can be significantly longer, potentially exceeding two hours. This extended travel time negatively impacts the "Overall Health Score," particularly for residents requiring specialized care not readily available locally. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for long commutes are significant factors influencing healthcare access in McKean.

**Public Transit: A Limited Safety Net**

Public transportation options in McKean and the surrounding areas are limited. The Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) provides bus service throughout Erie County, but its routes are not extensive within McKean itself. The primary bus route serving McKean is Route 17, which provides limited service to and from Erie.

The frequency of Route 17 is not high, and the service operates on a limited schedule, particularly on weekends and evenings. This restricts the availability of public transit for accessing healthcare. The lack of frequent service and the limited geographical coverage of Route 17 negatively impact the "Overall Health Score."

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the bus service is crucial for residents with mobility limitations. EMTA strives to provide accessible buses, but the overall limitations of the public transit system in McKean significantly reduce the availability of convenient and reliable healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Erie area and can provide an alternative transportation option for residents of McKean. However, the availability of these services may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of the town. This potential unreliability impacts the "Overall Health Score."

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the Erie area, including Erie County Medical Transportation and Medical Transport of Pennsylvania. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, which can be invaluable for individuals with disabilities or limited mobility.

While medical transportation services can improve the "Overall Health Score" for those who utilize them, their availability and cost can be a barrier for some residents. The need for advance booking and potential insurance coverage limitations must also be considered.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to McKean**

The "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in ZIP Code 16426 is moderately positive, reflecting the availability of essential healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance. However, the score is tempered by the limitations of public transportation, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles.

For individuals considering moving to McKean, the "Overall Health Score" suggests careful consideration of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Those who rely on public transit or have limited mobility may face significant challenges in accessing timely and convenient medical care.

The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates the ability to drive and maintain a vehicle. Residents should also factor in the cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and potential parking fees at medical facilities. The availability of family or friends to provide transportation can also significantly improve healthcare access.

The "Overall Health Score" is a dynamic measure, influenced by factors such as the expansion of healthcare services in the area, improvements to public transportation, and the availability of ride-sharing services. As McKean continues to develop and the healthcare landscape evolves, the "Overall Health Score" will likely change, reflecting the changing realities of healthcare access for its residents.

In conclusion, while McKean offers access to a range of healthcare services, the transportation infrastructure presents some challenges. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the balance between available healthcare options and the realities of commuting. Those moving to McKean should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements to ensure they can access the care they need when they need it.