16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.35 percent of residents in 16748 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Cole with a distance of 16.76 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16748

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16748), focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access through various transportation options. The score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Shinglehouse, highlighting the realities of accessing healthcare in this rural community.

Shinglehouse, nestled in Potter County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative isolation presents challenges when it comes to healthcare. The overall health score reflects these realities, offering a realistic assessment of the transportation landscape and its impact on residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Shinglehouse is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on their cars to navigate the surrounding areas. Driving times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor in the overall health score.

The nearest hospital, UPMC Cole, is located in Coudersport, approximately 20 miles east of Shinglehouse. The drive typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Accessing UPMC Cole requires navigating Pennsylvania Route 44 and Route 6, both of which are well-maintained but can experience delays during inclement weather, particularly in winter.

Specialized medical services may necessitate longer journeys. For instance, traveling to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) in Erie, a major regional healthcare hub, involves a drive of approximately 100 miles, taking upwards of two hours. This trip usually involves utilizing Route 44, Route 6, and Interstate 86. Similarly, access to larger hospitals in Buffalo, New York, such as the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, requires a drive of approximately 100 miles via Route 44 and Interstate 86. These longer drives significantly impact the overall health score, particularly for individuals requiring frequent or urgent medical attention.

The condition of the roads, especially during winter months, can further complicate these commutes. Snow and ice can significantly increase travel times and pose safety risks. This necessitates careful planning and preparedness, particularly for those with chronic health conditions or limited mobility.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Shinglehouse are extremely limited, significantly affecting the overall health score. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a major barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes.

The Potter County Transportation Authority (PCTA) offers a demand-response service, which can be booked in advance. However, the availability of this service is limited, and it may not be suitable for urgent medical needs. The PCTA's routes are not fixed and operate based on passenger requests, requiring advance scheduling. The routes are generally accessible to individuals with disabilities, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines. However, the limited service area and the need for pre-booking make this option less than ideal for spontaneous healthcare visits.

The lack of readily available public transit underscores the importance of personal vehicle ownership or reliance on alternative transportation options for accessing healthcare in Shinglehouse. This deficiency negatively impacts the overall health score, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally unavailable in Shinglehouse and the surrounding rural areas. This lack of ride-sharing options further compounds the challenges of accessing healthcare. The absence of these services limits the ability of residents to secure transportation for medical appointments, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies.

Medical transport services, however, offer a more specialized solution. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, offering transportation for individuals requiring non-emergency medical appointments. These services typically involve pre-arranged transportation and may be covered by insurance.

Ambulance services are available for emergency situations. However, the response time can be affected by the rural location and the distance to the nearest hospital. The availability of medical transport services helps to mitigate some of the challenges posed by the lack of public transit and ride-sharing, but it is not a comprehensive solution.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Shinglehouse (ZIP Code 16748) is moderate. While UPMC Cole in Coudersport is relatively accessible, the dependence on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the absence of ride-sharing services create significant challenges. The longer drive times to specialized medical facilities further impact the score.

For individuals considering moving to Shinglehouse, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Those with chronic health conditions, limited mobility, or without access to a personal vehicle should carefully evaluate the healthcare access challenges.

The availability of medical transport services provides some support, but it may not be sufficient for all needs. Individuals should also consider the potential impact of weather conditions on travel times and the need for proactive planning for medical appointments.

The overall health score is also influenced by the availability of local healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians and specialists. While Shinglehouse may have some local healthcare options, the reliance on traveling to larger facilities for specialized care remains a significant factor.

In conclusion, while Shinglehouse offers a peaceful and close-knit community, the realities of healthcare access through transportation present challenges that must be carefully considered. The moderate overall health score reflects the need for residents to be proactive in planning for their healthcare needs, especially regarding transportation. Individuals considering moving to Shinglehouse should thoroughly assess their healthcare requirements and ensure they have a reliable means of transportation to access the necessary medical services. The need for personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the absence of ride-sharing services all contribute to the overall health score. This information is crucial for making an informed decision about moving to Shinglehouse and ensuring adequate healthcare access.