16505, Erie, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16505, Erie, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.57 percent of residents in 16505 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Millcreek Community Hospital with a distance of 3.54 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16505

Understanding the overall health score for residents of Erie, Pennsylvania's 16505 ZIP code requires a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. A critical component of this assessment is the transportation infrastructure and its impact on patient access. Factors like drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to the ease or difficulty with which individuals can reach vital medical appointments. This write-up will dissect these elements, painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare access landscape within and around 16505.

The 16505 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Erie, presents a varied terrain when it comes to healthcare access. While the city boasts a number of well-regarded medical facilities, including UPMC Hamot and Saint Vincent Hospital, the ability to reach these institutions from different points within the ZIP code is not uniform. This disparity, influenced heavily by transportation options, is a key factor in determining the overall health score.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for many residents is the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly influenced by traffic patterns, especially during peak hours. Residents living in the eastern part of 16505 might experience longer commutes to facilities located west, and vice versa. Major roadways, such as Interstate 90 (I-90) and Interstate 79 (I-79), provide the main arteries for regional travel, but local roads like Peach Street, and 12th Street, and 26th Street are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities within the city limits. Congestion on these thoroughfares, particularly during rush hour, can add significant time to a patient's journey, potentially delaying or even deterring them from seeking timely medical attention.

The condition of these roads also plays a role. Potholes, construction zones, and other road hazards can create delays and increase the risk of accidents, further impacting healthcare access. Residents considering moving to Erie should factor in these drive-time considerations when choosing a location, especially if they have mobility limitations or require frequent medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Lifeline for Some:**

The Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) provides public transportation services within the city and surrounding areas. The EMTA operates a network of bus routes, including routes that serve key healthcare facilities within the 16505 ZIP code. However, the frequency and coverage of these routes can be a limiting factor. Some areas may have limited bus service, particularly during evenings and weekends, making it challenging for residents to access healthcare outside of standard business hours.

The EMTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transit. However, the availability of these buses on all routes and at all times should be considered. The convenience of bus stops, including their proximity to residential areas and healthcare facilities, also impacts the overall usability of public transit for accessing healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive. The availability and cost of these services in Erie can vary depending on demand and the time of day. While ride-sharing can provide a convenient way to get to medical appointments, the cost can be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited incomes.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are crucial for individuals who are unable to drive themselves or use public transit due to medical conditions. These services are often covered by insurance, but the availability and response times can vary. Individuals with chronic illnesses or mobility limitations rely heavily on these services to access regular medical care.

**The Healthcare Access Equation:**

The overall health score for 16505 is a composite of these factors. Residents with reliable access to personal vehicles and living in close proximity to healthcare facilities generally enjoy better healthcare access. Those relying on public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transport face additional challenges, including longer travel times, potential cost barriers, and the complexities of coordinating transportation.

The availability of healthcare facilities within the ZIP code is also a crucial factor. Proximity to primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and urgent care centers can significantly impact the ease with which residents can access care. The concentration of healthcare providers in certain areas of the 16505 ZIP code, coupled with the transportation options available, creates a complex landscape of healthcare access.

**Conclusion: Enhancing the Score:**

Improving the overall health score for 16505 requires a multifaceted approach. Investing in public transportation, including increased route frequency, extended service hours, and improved accessibility, is crucial. Supporting ride-sharing programs and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport services can also enhance access for vulnerable populations.

Furthermore, the strategic placement of healthcare facilities, including primary care clinics, urgent care centers, and specialty practices, throughout the ZIP code can reduce drive times and improve access for all residents. Educating residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources is also essential.

Ultimately, the overall health score for 16505 is a reflection of the community's commitment to ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need. By addressing the transportation and healthcare access challenges, Erie can create a healthier and more vibrant community for everyone, making it a more attractive location for those considering moving to Erie.