16727, Derrick City, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16727, Derrick City, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.00 percent of residents in 16727 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Kane with a distance of 25.59 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16727 (Derrick City, PA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Derrick City, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16727), necessitates a comprehensive examination of healthcare access. This evaluation delves into the realities of transportation, a critical determinant of health outcomes, considering the challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure. The score will be influenced by drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a clear picture for those considering moving to Derrick City, offering insights into the ease or difficulty of accessing essential healthcare services.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Derrick City is the reliance on personal vehicles. The landscape, characterized by rolling hills and a somewhat dispersed population, necessitates driving for most residents. The nearest major healthcare facilities are located in nearby cities, making commuting a daily reality for many.

The main arteries for this transportation are Pennsylvania Route 446 and U.S. Route 6. Route 446, running north-south, serves as a crucial connector, while U.S. Route 6, traversing east-west, offers access to larger towns and cities. Drive times to healthcare providers are significantly affected by the distance and traffic conditions.

For residents of Derrick City seeking general practitioners, specialists, or emergency care, the drive to the nearest hospitals and clinics in Bradford, PA, is a common journey. The drive along Route 446 to Bradford Regional Medical Center typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. However, during inclement weather or peak hours, this commute can easily extend.

The availability of public transit is a critical element in evaluating healthcare access. Unfortunately, the public transportation options in Derrick City and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary public transit provider is the Bradford Area Regional Transportation Authority (BARTA). BARTA operates a limited route network, with services primarily focused on Bradford.

The routes serving Derrick City are infrequent and may not align with typical healthcare appointment schedules. Furthermore, the routes may lack ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features, such as wheelchair accessibility, which poses challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. The infrequent schedules and limited reach of BARTA significantly impact the overall health score, particularly for those without access to personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in many areas, offering an alternative transportation option. However, their presence in Derrick City is limited. Availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical transport services are another crucial aspect of healthcare access. Several companies specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other healthcare needs. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities, those who cannot drive, or those requiring specialized vehicles.

The availability and cost of medical transport services in Derrick City are factors that influence the overall health score. The presence of reputable medical transport providers can mitigate some of the challenges associated with limited public transit and ride-sharing options.

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 16727 is impacted by the interplay of these factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, combined with limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services, creates a complex landscape.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly in Bradford, are manageable for most residents. However, the lack of robust public transit and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability pose challenges for those without personal vehicles. This is especially true for the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The health score is also influenced by the presence of medical transport services. These services can bridge the gap in transportation options, providing a lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other forms of transportation.

When considering moving to Derrick City, prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. Those who rely on public transit or ride-sharing should be prepared for potential delays or limitations. Individuals with specific healthcare needs should research the availability of medical transport services and the associated costs.

The overall health score for Derrick City, PA, is moderate. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are generally reasonable, the limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges. The presence of medical transport services helps to mitigate some of these challenges.

Improving the overall health score would require strategic investments in public transportation, expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring the affordability and accessibility of medical transport options. These improvements would significantly enhance healthcare access for all residents of Derrick City, regardless of their transportation capabilities.

The future of healthcare access in Derrick City depends on a collaborative approach involving local government, healthcare providers, and transportation services. This collaborative approach is crucial to improving the health and well-being of all residents. The goal should be to create a community where transportation is not a barrier to accessing essential healthcare services.