16877, Warriors Mark, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 16877, Warriors Mark, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.29 percent of residents in 16877 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mount Nittany Medical Center with a distance of 9.87 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16877 (Warriors Mark, PA)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 16877, specifically Warriors Mark, Pennsylvania, to evaluate the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. We'll consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the community's healthcare accessibility. For individuals considering moving to Warriors Mark, this analysis offers crucial insights.

Warriors Mark, a rural community nestled in central Pennsylvania, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its location, while offering scenic beauty and a slower pace of life, necessitates careful consideration of transportation logistics. The ability to promptly and reliably reach medical care is paramount, influencing the overall health and well-being of residents.

**Drive Time and Road Network:**

The primary mode of transportation in Warriors Mark is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The road network, though relatively straightforward, dictates the time required to access healthcare facilities. The major thoroughfare is **Route 22**, a vital east-west artery. Heading east on Route 22 leads towards the town of Huntingdon, where several medical practices and a hospital, UPMC-Huntingdon, are located. Drive times to Huntingdon typically range from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and specific destination.

Traveling west on Route 22 provides access to the larger city of Altoona, home to UPMC Altoona Hospital and a wider array of specialized medical services. This journey, however, is considerably longer, often taking between 45 minutes and an hour, particularly during peak traffic hours. **Route 322** is another significant road, offering a north-south connection. While not directly leading to major healthcare facilities, it provides access to secondary roads that can be used to reach hospitals in State College or Bellefonte, potentially offering alternative routes depending on the specific need.

Smaller, local roads like **Warriors Mark Pike** and **Shingletown Road** connect Warriors Mark to surrounding communities. These roads are often narrower and less well-maintained, potentially increasing travel times and posing challenges during inclement weather. The overall drive-time assessment reveals a moderate level of healthcare accessibility. While Huntingdon offers relatively quick access, the journey to Altoona and other specialized facilities requires significantly more time, impacting the "Overall Health Score."

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Warriors Mark are limited. The primary provider is the **Centre Area Transportation Authority (CATA)**, which operates throughout Centre County. However, CATA’s service in Warriors Mark is infrequent, primarily consisting of demand-response services. This means residents must schedule rides in advance, which can be inconvenient for urgent medical needs. CATA's fixed-route services do not directly serve Warriors Mark.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a critical factor. CATA is committed to providing accessible transportation, with a fleet of vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for pre-booking still pose challenges. The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score," especially for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in Warriors Mark are variable. Demand is often lower in rural areas, which could lead to longer wait times or the unavailability of rides, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, further impacting healthcare access.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. Several companies operate in the region, offering ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for appointments and other medical-related travel. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive or use public transportation.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Geisinger Life Flight:** Provides air medical transport for critical emergencies.
* **AMR (American Medical Response):** Offers ambulance services and NEMT.
* **TransCare Ambulance:** Provides ambulance services and NEMT.
* **CareRide:** A local NEMT provider.

While these services are available, their cost and the need for pre-arrangement can be significant considerations. The availability of medical transport services enhances healthcare access, but the reliance on these services also highlights the limitations of other transportation options.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Warriors Mark:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 16877 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The drive times to larger medical centers, such as UPMC Altoona, can be substantial, potentially delaying access to critical care.

For individuals considering moving to Warriors Mark, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Owning a reliable vehicle is highly recommended. Understanding the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services is also crucial. Planning for potential delays and emergencies is paramount.

The community's health is a reflection of its ability to provide access to healthcare. While Warriors Mark offers a tranquil lifestyle, the transportation infrastructure necessitates careful consideration. The "Overall Health Score" can be improved by advocating for enhanced public transit options, promoting ride-sharing services, and supporting initiatives that address transportation barriers to healthcare. By addressing these challenges, Warriors Mark can ensure that all residents have timely and reliable access to the medical care they need.