15330, Eighty Four, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15330, Eighty Four, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.02 percent of residents in 15330 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Canonsburg General Hospital with a distance of 6.83 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Eighty Four, PA (ZIP Code 15330)

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly for those managing hypertension, hinges on a critical factor: access to timely and reliable healthcare. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape of Eighty Four, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15330), offering a "Hypertension Score" assessment. This score evaluates the ease with which residents can access medical care, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is particularly pertinent for individuals considering moving to Eighty Four, ensuring informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs.

Eighty Four, a predominantly rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities concerning transportation and healthcare access. The primary consideration for individuals managing hypertension is the ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency services promptly. The Hypertension Score aims to quantify this accessibility, offering a practical guide for residents and prospective newcomers.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

The most common mode of transportation in Eighty Four is personal vehicles. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are Pennsylvania Route 519 and Interstate 79. Drive times to healthcare providers significantly influence the Hypertension Score. For instance, reaching Washington Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, typically involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes via PA-519 South or I-79 South.

The journey to Canonsburg General Hospital, another crucial option, requires a similar time commitment, around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions on PA-519 North or I-79 North. These times, while generally acceptable, can be affected by weather, traffic incidents, and the patient's physical condition. The Hypertension Score acknowledges these variables, considering the potential for delays.

Specialist appointments, such as cardiology consultations, may necessitate travel to Pittsburgh, a larger metropolitan area. This journey involves a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes via I-79 North, potentially adding significant time and stress for individuals managing hypertension. The score will reflect the increased travel time and its potential impact.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Eighty Four are limited. The primary provider is the Washington County Transportation Authority (WCTA). However, service frequency and route coverage are restricted, especially in rural areas. The WCTA operates a fixed-route service that serves the broader Washington County area, but the routes and schedules may not align perfectly with healthcare appointment times.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. The WCTA strives to provide accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible buses. However, the limited service frequency and potential for lengthy travel times can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations, further influencing the Hypertension Score.

The absence of a direct, frequent public transit route to major healthcare facilities significantly impacts the score. The reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods becomes paramount for those without access to a car.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Eighty Four area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, availability can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. This uncertainty impacts the Hypertension Score, as reliance on ride-sharing for time-sensitive medical appointments is not always reliable.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several NEMT providers operate in the region, but their availability and cost can vary. The Hypertension Score considers the presence of these services as a positive factor, but also acknowledges the potential for cost and scheduling limitations.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Hypertension Score for Eighty Four (ZIP Code 15330) will be a composite metric, considering the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Average drive times to major healthcare facilities (Washington Hospital, Canonsburg General Hospital, specialist clinics).
* **Public Transit Availability:** Frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of WCTA services.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Reliability and cost of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transport Services:** Availability, cost, and service area of NEMT providers.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** Distance and accessibility of local pharmacies.
* **Emergency Services:** Response times for ambulance services.

The score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating better healthcare access. The score will also include recommendations for improving healthcare access, such as advocating for increased public transit service, promoting ride-sharing programs, and supporting the expansion of medical transport options.

**Moving to Eighty Four: Informed Decisions**

For individuals considering moving to Eighty Four, the Hypertension Score provides crucial information. It allows prospective residents to assess the ease with which they can access healthcare services, ensuring their health needs are met. Individuals with hypertension should carefully evaluate the transportation options and potential challenges before relocating.

The score highlights the importance of having a reliable mode of transportation, whether it's a personal vehicle, access to ride-sharing, or pre-arranged medical transport. It also underscores the need to plan for potential delays and consider the location of healthcare providers and pharmacies.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The Hypertension Score for Eighty Four (ZIP Code 15330) is a valuable tool for residents and prospective newcomers. By analyzing the transportation landscape, it provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. While Eighty Four offers a peaceful and desirable living environment, understanding the challenges and opportunities related to transportation and healthcare is crucial for individuals managing hypertension. The score empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs, ensuring their well-being in this rural community.