16731, Eldred, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16731, Eldred, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.86 percent of residents in 16731 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Cole with a distance of 22.51 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16731 (Eldred, PA)

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of Eldred, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16731), focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access through transportation. Understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching medical facilities is paramount to community well-being, especially for those considering moving to Eldred. The score considers various transportation options, their limitations, and the specific healthcare landscape of the region.

Eldred, nestled in the scenic hills of McKean County, presents a unique challenge for healthcare access. Its rural setting, while offering tranquility, often translates to longer travel times and limited transportation choices. The overall health score reflects this reality, aiming to illuminate the realities of accessing medical care for current and prospective residents.

**Driving Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Eldred is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The road network, however, presents some hurdles. The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves navigating the winding two-lane roads characteristic of the region.

For residents needing specialized care, the journey to larger hospitals in Olean, New York, or Bradford, Pennsylvania, is common. Heading east, Pennsylvania Route 44 (PA-44) provides a crucial artery, connecting Eldred to Bradford. The drive to Bradford, a distance of approximately 20 miles, typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but winter conditions can significantly impact travel times.

Traveling west, PA-446 offers an alternative route, but is often a longer drive, leading to Olean, New York. The drive to Olean, roughly 35 miles, can take up to an hour, or even longer during peak hours or adverse weather. This route utilizes a combination of PA-446 and New York State Route 417, and the roads can be less maintained in certain stretches.

The lack of major highways necessitates reliance on these state routes, which can be congested during peak hours, especially in the vicinity of Bradford. The overall driving experience is characterized by the beauty of the surrounding landscape, but also the potential for delays.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options within Eldred and the surrounding areas are limited. There is no dedicated local bus service within the borough itself. The closest public transit options are primarily focused on serving the larger cities of Bradford and Olean.

The Bradford Area Regional Transportation Authority (BARTA) provides limited bus service within the Bradford area. While this service may be accessible to some Eldred residents, it requires an initial drive to Bradford, adding to the overall commute time. The frequency of BARTA routes can be infrequent, and the service area is restricted. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) varies depending on the specific route and bus. It is essential to confirm ADA compliance before relying on public transit.

Similarly, public transit options from Olean, New York, are available, but they are not easily accessible from Eldred. These routes require a long commute and may not offer the flexibility needed for medical appointments.

The lack of robust public transportation significantly impacts the overall health score. Residents without personal vehicles, or those unable to drive, face considerable challenges in accessing healthcare.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in the Eldred area. Availability is not guaranteed, and wait times can be substantial. The cost of ride-sharing services can also be prohibitive for regular medical appointments, especially given the distances involved.

Medical transportation services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance, offer a more reliable alternative. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically require advance booking and may have restrictions on the types of appointments they serve.

Common medical transportation brands serving the area include local providers, but these services are often in high demand. The availability of these services, and the associated costs, contribute to the overall health score.

**Healthcare Facilities and Healthcare Access:**

The availability of healthcare facilities within Eldred itself is limited. Residents typically rely on medical services in Bradford, Olean, or even further afield. This reliance on external facilities underscores the importance of reliable transportation.

The proximity of healthcare facilities to the residents is a major determinant of the health score. The need to travel for routine checkups, specialist appointments, and emergency care adds to the stress and financial burden of healthcare.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Considering the factors discussed, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 16731 is moderate. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transportation and ride-sharing options, presents challenges. The distance to healthcare facilities and the potential for delays due to road conditions further contribute to the score.

For individuals considering moving to Eldred, careful consideration of transportation needs is essential. Those without access to a personal vehicle should thoroughly investigate medical transportation services and assess the feasibility of relying on public transit.

The following recommendations would improve the overall health score:

* **Increased investment in public transportation:** Expanding bus routes and frequency, particularly connecting Eldred to Bradford and Olean, would significantly improve healthcare access.
* **Promotion of ride-sharing services:** Encouraging ride-sharing companies to expand their services in the area would provide an additional transportation option.
* **Expansion of medical transportation services:** Increasing the availability and affordability of medical transportation would be particularly beneficial for elderly residents and those with disabilities.
* **Community outreach and education:** Providing residents with information about available transportation options and healthcare resources would empower them to make informed decisions.

By addressing these issues, the community can improve healthcare access, leading to better health outcomes for all residents. The focus on transportation is vital to ensuring that residents of Eldred can easily access the healthcare they need.