16504, Erie, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16504, Erie, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.57 percent of residents in 16504 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Vincent Hospital with a distance of 1.43 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16504**

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its ability to access healthcare. This write-up analyzes the ease with which residents of Erie, Pennsylvania's 16504 ZIP code can reach essential medical services, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options and their associated challenges. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare accessibility for those considering moving to Erie.

The 16504 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Erie, is a dynamic area, and its healthcare landscape is crucial for its residents. Accessibility to care is a multifaceted issue, dependent on the efficiency and availability of transportation. This analysis considers various modes, from personal vehicles to public transit, to gauge the ease of reaching hospitals, clinics, and other vital medical facilities.

**Drive Time and Road Network**

For many, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The road network within and around 16504 significantly impacts healthcare access. Major arteries like Interstate 90 (I-90), a vital east-west corridor, and Interstate 79 (I-79), running north-south, provide rapid access to major medical centers. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can extend travel times, potentially delaying critical care.

Local roads such as Peach Street, a major commercial thoroughfare, and West 26th Street, offer alternative routes, but are often subject to stop-and-go traffic and signal delays. These routes are crucial for accessing urgent care facilities, primary care physicians' offices, and pharmacies scattered throughout the community. The condition of these roads, including potholes and ongoing construction, can also impact travel times and the safety of patients.

Drive times to major healthcare providers like UPMC Hamot and Saint Vincent Hospital, both located within a reasonable distance of 16504, vary depending on the specific origin within the ZIP code and the time of day. Generally, a drive to either hospital can range from 10 to 20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during rush hour, these times can easily double, posing a significant challenge for individuals requiring immediate medical attention.

**Public Transportation**

The Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) provides public transportation within the city and surrounding areas. Several bus routes serve the 16504 ZIP code, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. Route numbers like 1, 2, and 15 are particularly relevant, providing connections to major healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited, potentially creating obstacles for those needing to access healthcare outside of standard business hours.

EMTA strives to provide accessible transportation, with all buses equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating. This is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the overall coverage of the public transit system, while improving, may not adequately serve all areas within the 16504 ZIP code, particularly those on the periphery.

The efficiency of public transportation is also affected by factors such as weather conditions, which can cause delays. Furthermore, the need for transfers between routes can extend travel times, making it less convenient than driving for some residents. The overall impact of public transportation on healthcare access in 16504 is mixed, offering a valuable service but with limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Erie, providing another transportation option, especially for those without access to a personal vehicle or who prefer not to drive. These services offer on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, and their availability can be particularly beneficial for those who require assistance with mobility. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, also play a role in healthcare access. Companies like Erie County Ambulance Service and other private providers offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are crucial for individuals with disabilities or those who require medical assistance during transport. The availability and cost of these services vary, and coordination is often required.

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

Considering the transportation options available in 16504, the "Overall Health Score" is moderate. While major healthcare facilities are accessible via car within a reasonable timeframe, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays pose challenges. Public transportation offers an alternative, but its limitations in terms of frequency and coverage reduce its effectiveness. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide additional options, but their cost and availability can be restrictive.

For those considering moving to Erie and specifically to the 16504 ZIP code, healthcare access is a critical factor. The location of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of the road network, the reliability of public transportation, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services should all be carefully considered. Individuals with specific healthcare needs, such as those with mobility impairments or chronic conditions, should pay particular attention to the availability of accessible transportation options.

The ongoing efforts to improve public transportation, such as route expansions and increased frequency, will likely enhance healthcare access in the future. Furthermore, the continued growth of ride-sharing services and the availability of medical transport options provide additional avenues for accessing care. However, potential residents should be aware of the current limitations and plan accordingly.

In conclusion, while 16504 offers reasonable access to healthcare, a comprehensive assessment of transportation options is crucial. Understanding the drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services will help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The overall health score for healthcare access in 16504 is moderate, with room for improvement through continued investment in transportation infrastructure and services.