15077, Shippingport, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15077, Shippingport, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.48 percent of residents in 15077 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Heritage Valley Beaver with a distance of 7.59 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shippingport (ZIP Code 15077)

The quiet borough of Shippingport, nestled along the Ohio River in Beaver County, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15077), offers a serene lifestyle. However, the tranquility can mask challenges related to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, crucial for residents seeking timely medical attention, and calculates a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching necessary care. This score is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Shippingport, as it significantly impacts their quality of life.

The foundation of our analysis rests on the understanding that effective hypertension management hinges on consistent access to medical appointments, medication refills, and emergency care. Transportation limitations can exacerbate the condition, leading to poorer health outcomes. The following sections will explore the available transportation options, assess their accessibility, and ultimately, contribute to the overall Hypertension Score.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

Shippingport's primary access points are Route 68 and Interstate 376 (the Beaver Valley Expressway). Route 68 provides a direct route to the borough, while I-376 offers connections to major healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas. Driving times are a critical factor in the Hypertension Score.

For routine appointments, the drive to Heritage Valley Beaver, the closest hospital with comprehensive services, typically takes 20-30 minutes via Route 68 and I-376. This drive, while manageable, can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours. The presence of multiple traffic lights along Route 68 adds to the potential delays.

Emergency situations demand rapid response. The drive time to Heritage Valley Beaver, using the same routes, remains approximately the same. However, every minute counts in a medical emergency, and even a slight delay can have significant consequences. The availability of emergency medical services within Shippingport is also a factor, but the transportation infrastructure is the primary determinant of timely access to hospital care.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Shippingport are limited. The Beaver County Transit Authority (BCTA) provides bus service throughout the county, but its routes and schedules are not always conducive to frequent healthcare visits.

The BCTA route that serves Shippingport is the 100 series, which runs on a limited schedule, particularly on weekends and evenings. The frequency of service is typically hourly or less, making it challenging for individuals needing regular appointments. Furthermore, the stops within Shippingport are not always conveniently located for all residents, potentially requiring a significant walk to the nearest bus stop.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility impairments. BCTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited route frequency and potential for long wait times can still pose challenges. The overall impact on the Hypertension Score is significant, as the lack of readily available public transportation significantly reduces healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Shippingport area. However, their availability and reliability can vary. In a rural area like Shippingport, ride-sharing services may be less readily available than in more urban areas. This can lead to longer wait times and potentially higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies operate in the region, including those specializing in non-emergency medical transportation. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services come at a cost, and the availability of specific providers can vary.

The dependence on ride-sharing or medical transportation adds to the complexity of healthcare access. The Hypertension Score must account for the added expense, potential delays, and the need to coordinate transportation in advance. This is a crucial consideration for anyone moving to Shippingport and managing hypertension.

**Calculating the Hypertension Score:**

The Hypertension Score is a subjective assessment based on the factors outlined above. It considers the ease of access to healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation options, and the potential challenges faced by individuals managing hypertension.

**Factors and Weighting:**

* **Drive Time to Nearest Hospital (40%):** Shorter drive times receive a higher score, reflecting greater ease of access.
* **Public Transportation Availability and Frequency (20%):** More frequent and accessible public transit options increase the score.
* **Ride-Sharing/Medical Transportation Reliability and Cost (20%):** Reliable and affordable ride-sharing or medical transportation services improve the score.
* **Emergency Services Availability (20%):** The proximity of emergency services and the efficiency of emergency response contribute positively.

**Scoring Scale:**

* **Excellent (80-100):** Easy access to healthcare with multiple transportation options and minimal delays.
* **Good (60-79):** Reasonable access to healthcare with some transportation limitations.
* **Fair (40-59):** Limited access to healthcare with significant transportation challenges.
* **Poor (20-39):** Difficult access to healthcare with severe transportation limitations.
* **Very Poor (0-19):** Extremely limited access to healthcare with significant barriers.

**Shippingport's Score:**

Considering the factors discussed, Shippingport receives a **Fair** score, likely in the range of 45-55. The relatively short drive times to Heritage Valley Beaver are a positive factor. However, the limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services significantly detract from the score. The reliance on personal vehicles, which might not be accessible to all residents, further diminishes the score.

**Conclusion:**

For individuals managing hypertension and considering moving to Shippingport, the transportation landscape presents both opportunities and challenges. While the proximity to healthcare facilities is a positive aspect, the limited public transportation options and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning. Prospective residents should thoroughly assess their transportation needs and consider the potential impact on their healthcare access. This analysis highlights the importance of understanding the transportation infrastructure when evaluating the suitability of a location for individuals with chronic health conditions.