16434, Spartansburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16434, Spartansburg, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.39 percent of residents in 16434 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lecom Health Corry Memorial Hospital with a distance of 10.71 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Spartansburg, PA (ZIP Code 16434)

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of Spartansburg, Pennsylvania, necessitates a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. This analysis centers on the ease with which individuals can access medical care, considering various transportation options and the associated challenges. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape, offering insights valuable for current residents and those contemplating **moving to Spartansburg**.

Spartansburg, a rural community nestled in Crawford County, presents unique challenges when it comes to **healthcare access**. The primary obstacle is the distance to specialized medical facilities and the limited availability of public **transportation**. The overall health score, therefore, is significantly influenced by the time, cost, and effort required to reach essential medical appointments.

The primary mode of **transportation** for most Spartansburg residents is the personal vehicle. The town is primarily served by Pennsylvania Route 77, which connects to Route 98, and Route 408. These roads offer direct routes to nearby towns with healthcare facilities. However, the drive times can vary considerably depending on the destination and the time of day.

For routine primary care, residents often travel to Corry, approximately a 20-minute drive via Route 77. This drive is generally straightforward, but winter weather conditions can significantly impact travel times and safety. For specialized care, residents may need to travel to Erie, a larger city with a more comprehensive range of medical services. The drive to Erie, primarily via Interstate 86 and Interstate 90, can take approximately one hour, depending on traffic. This longer travel time necessitates careful planning, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Public **transportation** options in Spartansburg are extremely limited. Crawford Area Transportation Authority (CATA) provides some services within Crawford County, but routes serving Spartansburg are infrequent and may not align with medical appointment schedules. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is limited, posing a significant barrier for individuals with disabilities. Route 77, the main road, is not served by CATA.

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, but their presence in Spartansburg is not guaranteed. Availability can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-share services can also be costly, adding to the financial burden of healthcare access. Medical transport services, such as those offered by MedStar or LifeFleet, are available, but typically reserved for patients requiring ambulance or non-emergency medical transport. These services are often expensive and may require prior authorization from insurance companies.

The absence of readily available public **transportation** and the potential unreliability of ride-share services place a significant burden on individuals without personal vehicles. This is particularly concerning for elderly residents, those with disabilities, and low-income individuals who may face significant challenges in accessing necessary medical care. The lack of convenient **healthcare access** can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

The overall health score for Spartansburg is also influenced by the availability of local healthcare providers. While the town may have a family physician or a small clinic, the range of specialized medical services is limited. This necessitates travel to larger cities for specialized care, further exacerbating the challenges associated with **transportation**.

The cost of **transportation** is another critical factor. Fuel prices, vehicle maintenance, and the potential need for parking fees all contribute to the financial burden of accessing healthcare. This cost can be particularly challenging for low-income residents, who may have to choose between paying for medical care and other essential needs.

The lack of readily available **healthcare access** can also impact the overall quality of life for residents. The stress and inconvenience associated with traveling long distances for medical appointments can contribute to anxiety and a sense of isolation. This can be particularly detrimental for individuals with chronic conditions, who may require frequent medical visits.

The overall health score for Spartansburg, therefore, is moderate, with significant areas for improvement. The primary challenge is the lack of convenient and affordable **transportation** options. While the town is relatively safe and offers a close-knit community, the limited access to healthcare services presents a significant obstacle to maintaining good health.

To improve the overall health score, several strategies could be implemented. Expanding public **transportation** services, particularly those with ADA-accessible features, would be a significant step forward. Partnering with ride-share companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Investing in telehealth services, allowing residents to access medical consultations remotely, could help bridge the gap in **healthcare access**.

Furthermore, attracting more healthcare providers to the area, including specialists, would reduce the need for long-distance travel. Promoting community health initiatives, such as health screenings and educational programs, could also improve the overall health of the population.

For individuals considering **moving to Spartansburg**, it is crucial to carefully assess their healthcare needs and the availability of **transportation** options. While the town offers a peaceful and affordable lifestyle, the challenges associated with **healthcare access** should be carefully considered. Planning for **transportation** needs, exploring telehealth options, and identifying potential support systems are essential steps in ensuring access to quality medical care.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Spartansburg is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, with **transportation** being a critical determinant. While the community offers a desirable lifestyle for many, the limitations in **healthcare access** present a significant challenge. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in **transportation**, healthcare infrastructure, and community health initiatives is essential to improving the overall health and well-being of Spartansburg residents.