15327, Dilliner, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15327, Dilliner, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.85 percent of residents in 15327 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington Health System Greene with a distance of 15.39 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Dilliner, PA (ZIP Code 15327)

The decision to relocate, especially to a new community like Dilliner, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15327), is a significant life event. For individuals managing hypertension, a critical consideration is healthcare access. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on reaching medical care within and around Dilliner. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view for informed decision-making.

Dilliner, nestled in Greene County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare access. The rural nature of the area dictates a reliance on personal vehicles, but alternative transportation options exist. Understanding these nuances is crucial for individuals with hypertension, who require consistent medical attention and medication adherence.

**Driving the Landscape: Highways and Roads**

The primary artery for transportation in and out of Dilliner is Pennsylvania Route 21. This two-lane road connects the community to the broader region. Traveling east on Route 21 leads to Waynesburg, the county seat, where the Greene County Memorial Hospital is located. The drive is typically a 15-20 minute journey, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Accessing healthcare beyond Waynesburg necessitates navigating other roadways. Route 21 intersects with Interstate 79, a major north-south thoroughfare. Heading north on I-79 offers access to healthcare facilities in Morgantown, West Virginia, approximately a 45-minute drive. Southbound on I-79 provides access to healthcare in Washington, Pennsylvania, a drive of about an hour.

Other roads, such as Route 188 and various local roads, contribute to the transportation network. However, these tend to be more winding and may be less well-maintained, especially during inclement weather. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of reliable transportation for managing hypertension. The condition requires regular appointments and medication refills, making vehicle ownership or consistent access to a driver paramount.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Greene County are limited. The Greene County Transit provides bus services, but routes and schedules are often infrequent and may not be directly tailored to healthcare access. It is imperative to check the transit authority’s website for current routes and schedules.

For individuals with disabilities, the Greene County Transit offers ADA-compliant services. These services are designed to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges, ensuring access to healthcare facilities. However, it is crucial to book these services in advance, as demand may be high.

The limited public transit options highlight a potential challenge for individuals with hypertension who may not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The infrequent schedules and potential for longer travel times could impact adherence to medical appointments and medication regimens.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the broader region but their availability in Dilliner and the surrounding areas can be inconsistent. It is advisable to check the app for availability before relying on these services. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could also impact the cost of transportation.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a more specialized solution. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. Companies like MedStar and LifeFleet provide medical transportation in the region.

The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial lifeline for individuals with hypertension who lack alternative transportation options. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be costly, potentially impacting healthcare access for those with limited financial resources.

**The Hypertension Score: A Composite Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for Dilliner (ZIP Code 15327) reflects the interplay of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access.

* **Drive Time:** The relatively short drive to Waynesburg (15-20 minutes) provides convenient access to a local hospital. However, accessing specialized care or larger medical centers requires longer travel times (45 minutes to an hour or more).
* **Public Transit:** Limited public transit options pose a significant challenge, especially for individuals without personal vehicles. ADA-compliant services are available but require advance booking.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent, potentially impacting access to medical appointments.
* **Medical Transport:** Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline but come with associated costs and the need for pre-booking.

**Recommendations for Individuals with Hypertension Considering Moving to Dilliner:**

* **Prioritize Vehicle Ownership:** Given the limited public transit options, owning a reliable vehicle is highly recommended.
* **Explore Medical Transport Options:** Research local medical transport providers and understand their services, costs, and booking procedures.
* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule medical appointments and medication refills in advance, considering potential travel times and transportation limitations.
* **Assess Financial Resources:** Factor in the costs of transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and medical transport services, when budgeting for healthcare.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Evaluate the distance to healthcare providers and the availability of specialized care when choosing a residence within Dilliner.

The "Hypertension Score" for Dilliner highlights the importance of careful consideration of transportation options when managing hypertension. While the community offers access to healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit require proactive planning and resourcefulness. Individuals considering moving to Dilliner should thoroughly assess their transportation needs and develop a comprehensive plan to ensure consistent access to medical care. The move to Dilliner can be manageable for those with hypertension when they are prepared.