17253, Saltillo, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17253, Saltillo, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

22.40 percent of residents in 17253 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Medical Center with a distance of 18.89 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17253 (Saltillo, PA)

This report assesses the overall health score for residents of Saltillo, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17253), focusing on the critical element of healthcare access. Accessibility is measured through the lens of transportation options, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is paramount for anyone considering moving to Saltillo and evaluating their healthcare needs. The ability to reach medical facilities efficiently significantly impacts overall well-being, making transportation a crucial determinant of health outcomes.

Saltillo, nestled in the heart of Huntingdon County, offers a tranquil, rural lifestyle. However, its geographical location presents unique challenges when it comes to accessing healthcare. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are located in neighboring towns and cities, necessitating reliable transportation. This report will provide a comprehensive overview of the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 17253, painting a clear picture of the ease or difficulty residents face in reaching vital healthcare services.

**Drive Time Analysis**

The primary mode of transportation for residents of Saltillo is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by the road network. The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves navigating rural roads and highways.

The UPMC-Altoona Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, is approximately 40-50 miles away, depending on the specific route chosen. The most common route involves taking **PA-26 South** towards Huntingdon, then connecting with **US-22 West**. This journey typically takes around one hour, but can be considerably longer during peak traffic hours or adverse weather conditions. **PA-26** is a two-lane highway that winds through scenic, but sometimes challenging, terrain. **US-22** is a four-lane highway that provides a more direct route, but is also prone to congestion.

Another option is to head east on **PA-994** to **US-522 South**, then connect with **US-22 West**. This route offers a slightly shorter distance, but the roads are often narrower and more winding. This route might take an hour and ten minutes.

Smaller, local clinics and urgent care facilities are available in nearby towns like Huntingdon and Mount Union. These facilities are generally accessible within a 20-30 minute drive, primarily via **PA-994**, **PA-26**, and local roads. These options provide more immediate care for minor ailments and routine check-ups.

**Public Transit Assessment**

Public transportation options within and around Saltillo are limited. The lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or prefer not to drive.

The Huntingdon County Human Services Transportation (HCHST) offers demand-response transportation services. This service, while available, requires advance booking and is primarily intended for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. The availability of HCHST services to access healthcare appointments is a vital resource, but it is not a comprehensive solution for all transportation needs.

The HCHST vehicles are equipped with ADA-compliant features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service area and scheduling constraints can make it difficult to rely on public transit for timely access to medical appointments. The effectiveness of public transit as a healthcare access solution is therefore limited.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Evaluation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the broader Huntingdon County area, but their presence in Saltillo itself is often sporadic. The availability of ride-sharing services is dependent on driver availability and demand, making it unreliable for scheduled medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. These services are typically provided by specialized companies and offer various levels of assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained medical personnel. While medical transport services provide a valuable resource for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, they are often more expensive than other transportation options and require advance booking.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 17253 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing, combined with the reliance on personal vehicles, present challenges.

The lack of readily available public transportation options and the sporadic nature of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for individuals who cannot or choose not to drive. This underscores the importance of supporting and expanding existing public transportation services, particularly the Huntingdon County Human Services Transportation.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

* **Advocate for increased public transportation:** Lobby for expanded routes, extended service hours, and increased frequency of HCHST services. This would improve access for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a vehicle.
* **Promote ride-sharing awareness:** Educate residents about the availability of ride-sharing services and encourage the development of driver networks in the Saltillo area.
* **Support medical transport services:** Provide information and resources to connect residents with medical transport providers, ensuring they are aware of available options.
* **Explore telehealth opportunities:** Promote the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for routine check-ups and follow-up care.
* **Community partnerships:** Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations to address transportation barriers and improve healthcare access for all residents of Saltillo.

**Conclusion**

Access to healthcare is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being. While Saltillo offers a peaceful and attractive living environment, the transportation challenges must be addressed to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the medical care they need. By implementing the recommendations outlined in this report, the community can work towards improving healthcare access and creating a healthier future for all. For those considering moving to Saltillo, understanding these transportation realities is crucial for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs and overall quality of life.