16507, Erie, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16507, Erie, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

90.08 percent of residents in 16507 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Hamot with a distance of 0.49 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16507

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding Erie, Pennsylvania's 16507 ZIP code, providing an "Overall Health Score" assessment of its residents' ability to reach medical facilities. This score considers factors such as drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. Ultimately, this assessment aims to inform individuals considering moving to Erie, providing a clear picture of healthcare access challenges and opportunities.

The 16507 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Erie's downtown and surrounding neighborhoods, presents a complex transportation environment. Healthcare access hinges on navigating a network of roads, utilizing public transit, and leveraging alternative transportation solutions. The score, therefore, reflects the ease or difficulty of these journeys, impacting overall community well-being.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare in the 16507 ZIP code are Interstate 90 (I-90), Interstate 79 (I-79), and Pennsylvania Route 5 (also known as West 6th Street and East 6th Street). These highways connect residents to major medical centers, including UPMC Hamot and Saint Vincent Hospital. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend drive times.

A drive from the heart of 16507 to UPMC Hamot, located just north of the ZIP code, typically takes 5-10 minutes under normal traffic conditions, primarily utilizing West 6th Street. Saint Vincent Hospital, situated further east, requires a 10-15 minute drive, often involving East 6th Street and potentially I-90, depending on the starting point.

Access to specialty clinics and outpatient facilities scattered throughout the city can add complexity. The efficiency of travel depends on the specific location and the time of day. Residents should factor in potential delays caused by traffic, especially along routes like Peach Street and State Street, which experience heavy congestion.

**Public Transportation: A Vital Link**

The Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) provides public transportation services within the city. Several bus routes serve the 16507 ZIP code, offering crucial access to healthcare facilities for those without personal vehicles.

Route 1 (Downtown Loop) and Route 2 (East 26th Street) are particularly relevant, connecting to downtown medical offices and providing access to Saint Vincent Hospital. Route 15 (West 26th Street) also serves the area, offering connections to UPMC Hamot.

EMTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This is crucial for ensuring healthcare access for all residents, regardless of physical limitations. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can pose a challenge. Long wait times between buses can make healthcare appointments a significant time commitment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in Erie, offering an alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, potentially reducing travel time and stress. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, and surge pricing during peak hours may increase costs.

Specialized medical transportation services cater to individuals with specific needs. These services, often offered by ambulance companies or private providers, provide transportation for those requiring assistance with mobility or medical equipment. They are particularly valuable for individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in the 16507 ZIP code is **moderate**. While the proximity of major hospitals and the availability of public transit are positive factors, challenges remain.

Drive times are generally manageable, but traffic congestion and the lack of dedicated bus lanes can create delays. The frequency of EMTA bus service, particularly during off-peak hours, limits access for some residents. The reliance on ride-sharing services can be impacted by driver availability and cost fluctuations.

**Recommendations:**

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Increase the frequency of EMTA bus routes, particularly during evenings and weekends. Explore the feasibility of dedicated bus lanes on major thoroughfares to reduce travel times.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Awareness:** Educate residents about the availability and accessibility of ride-sharing services. Consider partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing companies to offer discounted transportation options for patients.
* **Expand Medical Transportation Services:** Increase the availability and awareness of medical transportation services for individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions.
* **Improve Infrastructure:** Address road maintenance and traffic flow issues to minimize drive times to healthcare facilities.
* **Community Awareness:** Promote awareness of all transportation options and healthcare access resources available to residents.

For individuals considering moving to Erie, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. While the 16507 ZIP code offers reasonable healthcare access, potential residents should carefully consider their individual transportation needs and preferences. Planning ahead, exploring all available options, and understanding potential challenges will ensure seamless access to healthcare services, contributing to overall well-being. The success of a community is measured by its ability to provide healthcare access to all its residents, and Erie continues to strive to meet this crucial need.