16701, Bradford, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16701, Bradford, Pennsylvania is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.63 percent of residents in 16701 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Kane with a distance of 21.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16701

ZIP Code 16701, encompassing the city of Bradford, Pennsylvania, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering its residents' overall health score, particularly concerning **healthcare access**. The rugged terrain and dispersed population of this northern Pennsylvania community significantly influence **transportation** options, subsequently impacting the ability to reach vital medical services. This analysis delves into the various modes of commuting, their associated time commitments, and the accessibility features offered, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering **moving to Bradford** or evaluating the health of the existing population.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Bradford is the automobile. The vast majority of residents rely on personal vehicles to navigate the region, a fact that heavily influences the overall health score. The geographical layout of Bradford, nestled within the Allegheny Mountains, necessitates reliance on roadways, with limited alternative options.

For routine appointments and local healthcare needs, residents primarily utilize Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC), located within the city limits. Reaching BRMC is relatively straightforward for most residents, with drive times typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and traffic conditions. The main arteries leading to BRMC include Interstate 86 (I-86), US Route 219, and various local roads like Kennedy Street and Congress Street. These roads are generally well-maintained, but winter weather can present significant challenges, impacting drive times and safety.

However, accessing specialized medical services often requires travel outside of Bradford. For example, advanced cardiac care, specialized cancer treatment, or certain surgical procedures may necessitate trips to larger medical centers in Erie, Pennsylvania (approximately 100 miles west), or Buffalo, New York (approximately 80 miles north). These longer journeys significantly impact the health score.

Traveling to Erie via I-86 typically takes around two hours under ideal conditions. The journey involves navigating the winding mountain passes of the Allegheny National Forest, which can be treacherous during inclement weather. Similarly, the trip to Buffalo via I-86 and the New York State Thruway (I-90) also takes approximately two hours, with similar weather-related risks. These extended travel times, coupled with potential delays, can deter individuals from seeking timely medical attention, negatively affecting their health outcomes.

Public **transportation** options in Bradford are limited, further impacting the health score. The Bradford Area Regional Transportation Authority (BARTA) operates a small bus system within the city, primarily serving local routes. However, these routes are infrequent, and the service area is restricted, limiting its utility for **healthcare access**, especially for those residing outside the immediate city center.

BARTA buses do offer ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited scope of the bus system and the infrequent schedules render it impractical for many residents, particularly those with mobility limitations who require frequent medical appointments. The lack of robust public transit further exacerbates the reliance on personal vehicles, contributing to the challenges of **healthcare access**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Bradford, but their presence is inconsistent. Availability is often limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of the ZIP code. This inconsistency makes ride-sharing an unreliable option for scheduled medical appointments, potentially leading to missed appointments and delayed care. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, further impacting their ability to access necessary medical services.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance, are available in Bradford. These services, often provided by private companies, offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking. However, these services are typically more expensive than other modes of **transportation**, and their availability may be limited, particularly for non-emergency situations. The cost and availability of these services can be a significant factor in determining the overall health score for residents with specific needs.

The overall health score for ZIP Code 16701 is significantly impacted by the challenges associated with **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create barriers for many residents. The long travel times to access specialized medical care further compound these challenges.

The physical environment of Bradford, with its mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather conditions, also contributes to the difficulties in accessing healthcare. Winter storms can make roads impassable, delaying or preventing medical appointments. The dispersed population further complicates the provision of healthcare services, making it challenging to establish and maintain a comprehensive network of medical facilities.

For individuals considering **moving to Bradford**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and their access to healthcare is crucial. Those with pre-existing medical conditions or limited mobility should carefully evaluate the available options and plan accordingly. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful consideration of vehicle maintenance, insurance costs, and the potential for weather-related delays.

The availability of medical **transportation** services should be investigated, and the associated costs should be factored into the overall budget. For those who are unable to drive or lack access to a personal vehicle, exploring the local bus routes and ride-sharing options is essential. However, it's important to acknowledge the limitations of these services and to plan for potential delays or cancellations.

The overall health score for ZIP Code 16701 can be improved by addressing the challenges associated with **healthcare access**. Investing in public **transportation** infrastructure, expanding the reach and frequency of bus routes, and improving the reliability of ride-sharing services would significantly benefit residents. Promoting the availability of medical **transportation** services and ensuring their affordability would also contribute to improved health outcomes.

Furthermore, exploring opportunities to bring specialized medical services to Bradford, such as through telemedicine or mobile clinics, could reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for care. Collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations is essential to address the existing challenges and to create a more accessible and equitable healthcare system for all residents of ZIP Code 16701. The health score is a reflection of the community's commitment to the well-being of its residents, and a proactive approach to improving **healthcare access** is crucial for enhancing the overall quality of life in Bradford.