16743, Port Allegany, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16743, Port Allegany, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.36 percent of residents in 16743 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Cole with a distance of 15.74 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16743 (Port Allegany, PA)

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 16743, encompassing Port Allegany, Pennsylvania, is significantly impacted by the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape. Evaluating healthcare access in this rural area requires a nuanced understanding of commute times, available transportation options, and the practical realities faced by individuals seeking medical care. This analysis considers the multifaceted nature of healthcare access, from routine check-ups to emergency situations, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Port Allegany.

The primary factor influencing the health score is the distance and time required to reach healthcare facilities. Port Allegany, nestled in McKean County, is geographically isolated, with limited immediate access to specialized medical services. Residents often rely on personal vehicles for transportation, adding to the complexity of their healthcare journey. The ability to navigate the local road network is paramount.

The primary routes for healthcare access involve navigating Pennsylvania Route 44 and Pennsylvania Route 155. These roads, while scenic, can be subject to weather-related delays, especially during the harsh winter months. Drive times to the nearest hospitals and specialist offices vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions.

The closest major medical facilities are located in Olean, New York, approximately 30 miles away, and Bradford, Pennsylvania, about 25 miles distant. A drive to Olean, utilizing Route 44 and crossing the state line, can take around 45 minutes in favorable conditions. Reaching Bradford, via Route 155 and Route 6, typically takes around 40 minutes. These estimates are based on optimal conditions and do not account for potential delays due to weather, accidents, or road construction. These factors can significantly impact the health score.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 16743 are limited. McKean County Transit provides some services, but its routes and schedules may not adequately address the healthcare needs of all residents. Information on specific routes and ADA accessibility features is essential for those with mobility limitations. The lack of robust public transit infrastructure significantly diminishes the overall health score for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Port Allegany. This absence creates a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to other transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles or the need to arrange transportation with friends, family, or volunteer drivers adds to the complexity and potential stress associated with seeking medical care.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport providers, play a crucial role in healthcare access. However, the availability and response times of these services can vary depending on the location and the nature of the medical need. The presence of these services, and their ability to reach residents in a timely manner, directly affects the overall health score.

The availability of healthcare providers within Port Allegany itself also influences the health score. The presence of a local clinic or physician's office can reduce the need for long-distance travel for routine care. However, the availability of specialists and the range of services offered locally may be limited, necessitating travel to larger medical centers in Olean or Bradford.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access extends beyond physical travel time. The cost of transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees, can be a significant financial burden for residents, especially those with limited incomes. This financial strain can lead to delayed or avoided medical care, negatively impacting the overall health score.

The demographics of ZIP Code 16743 also play a role in assessing healthcare access. The age distribution, the prevalence of chronic health conditions, and the socioeconomic status of residents all influence their healthcare needs and their ability to access care. Elderly residents and individuals with disabilities may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare due to mobility limitations and the lack of readily available transportation options.

The overall health score for ZIP Code 16743 is therefore significantly affected by the limited transportation options and the distances to healthcare facilities. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, the geographical isolation presents challenges for residents seeking timely and convenient medical care. The lack of public transportation, the absence of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations, limited financial resources, or without access to a personal vehicle.

The overall health score is further influenced by the availability of local healthcare providers and the range of services offered within Port Allegany. The presence of a local clinic or physician's office can mitigate the need for long-distance travel for routine care, but the availability of specialists and specialized medical services may be limited, requiring residents to travel to larger medical centers.

For individuals considering moving to Port Allegany, a thorough understanding of the transportation challenges and the healthcare landscape is essential. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and assess their ability to navigate the local transportation network. The availability of reliable transportation, whether through personal vehicles, family support, or medical transport services, is crucial for ensuring access to timely and appropriate medical care.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 16743 is a complex metric, heavily influenced by the challenges of transportation and healthcare access. While the area offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the geographical isolation and the limited availability of transportation options create significant barriers to healthcare access. Addressing these challenges through improved public transit, expanded medical transport services, and increased access to local healthcare providers would significantly enhance the overall health score and improve the well-being of the residents of Port Allegany.