16679, Six Mile Run, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16679, Six Mile Run, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.37 percent of residents in 16679 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Bedford Memorial with a distance of 14.72 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Six Mile Run (ZIP Code 16679)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This assessment delves into the accessibility of medical services for residents of Six Mile Run, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16679), focusing on the critical factor of **transportation**. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in this rural area. This analysis is particularly relevant for those **moving to Six Mile Run**, as understanding these factors is crucial for maintaining their well-being.

Six Mile Run, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, presents a unique challenge. Its rural nature, characterized by rolling hills and sparsely populated areas, significantly impacts healthcare access. The very fabric of daily life, from grocery shopping to doctor's appointments, is interwoven with the complexities of **transportation**. This score considers these challenges, offering a realistic view of the healthcare landscape for residents.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The primary mode of **transportation** for most Six Mile Run residents is the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this system hinges on the road network and the distances to healthcare facilities. The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are primarily located in nearby towns and cities, necessitating travel on a combination of state highways and local roads.

The primary arteries for travel are Route 26 and Route 53. These highways, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting travel times to critical appointments. Route 26 provides a direct route to State College, home to Mount Nittany Medical Center, the largest regional hospital. The drive to State College typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Six Mile Run.

Route 53 offers access to facilities in Philipsburg and Clearfield, but these destinations are generally further away. Travel times to these locations can exceed an hour, especially during inclement weather. Local roads, such as Six Mile Run Road and Allport Cutoff Road, provide access to smaller towns and medical offices, but these routes are often winding and less direct, adding to the overall travel time.

The condition of these roads is another crucial factor. While PennDOT works to maintain these roads, potholes and other road hazards can cause delays and increase the risk of accidents, especially during winter. The availability of reliable vehicles and the ability to drive safely are therefore paramount to healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in Six Mile Run are severely limited, posing a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The Centre Area Transportation Authority (CATA), which serves State College and the surrounding areas, does not have routes that directly serve Six Mile Run.

The closest public transit option is likely to be a bus stop in a nearby town, requiring residents to arrange their own transportation to reach it. This necessitates multiple transfers and significantly increases the overall travel time, making it impractical for many medical appointments. Furthermore, the lack of direct routes and the potential for long wait times can be particularly challenging for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring frequent medical care.

The absence of readily available public **transportation** also disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. These individuals may find it difficult to afford or access alternative modes of transport, leading to delayed or missed medical appointments.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on any existing public transit are also limited. While some buses may be equipped with wheelchair lifts, the lack of accessible routes and the long travel times can still pose significant challenges for individuals with disabilities.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the State College area and may provide a viable **transportation** option for some residents of Six Mile Run. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas, and the cost can be prohibitive for some individuals.

The reliance on ride-sharing also presents challenges in emergency situations. The time it takes to summon a ride-sharing vehicle, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather, may delay access to urgent medical care.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are crucial for individuals who cannot drive or require assistance with mobility. These services, provided by companies like AMED or local ambulance services, are available in the area. However, they are often costly and may require pre-booking, limiting their availability for urgent or unexpected medical needs.

The availability of NEMT services varies depending on insurance coverage and the specific medical requirements of the individual. These services are particularly vital for those requiring regular dialysis treatments, chemotherapy sessions, or other ongoing medical care.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

Based on the analysis of **transportation** options, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Six Mile Run (ZIP Code 16679) is considered moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges with ride-sharing and medical transport services create significant barriers.

**Recommendations:**

1. **Advocate for Expanded Public Transit:** Encourage the expansion of public transit routes to include Six Mile Run, potentially through partnerships with CATA or other regional transit authorities. This would improve **healthcare access** for vulnerable populations.
2. **Promote Ride-Sharing Awareness:** Educate residents about the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, including programs that may offer subsidies or discounts for medical appointments.
3. **Enhance Medical Transport Coordination:** Facilitate better coordination between medical transport providers, healthcare facilities, and insurance companies to ensure efficient and affordable transportation options for patients.
4. **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Advocate for continued investment in road maintenance and safety improvements, particularly on routes frequently used for accessing healthcare facilities.
5. **Explore Telehealth Opportunities:** Promote the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for routine check-ups and consultations. This can be particularly beneficial for those with limited **transportation** options.

For those **moving to Six Mile Run**, understanding these limitations is crucial. Careful planning, including securing reliable **transportation**, is essential for maintaining good health. By addressing these challenges, the community can work towards improving the "Overall Health Score" and ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.