15333, Fredericktown, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15333, Fredericktown, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.01 percent of residents in 15333 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington Health System Greene with a distance of 11.64 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fredericktown, PA (ZIP Code 15333)**

Fredericktown, Pennsylvania, a small community nestled in the heart of Greene County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for residents managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the accessibility of healthcare services for individuals residing in ZIP code 15333, focusing on the critical element of transportation. The goal is to assess the ease with which residents can reach essential medical appointments, considering various transportation options, and ultimately, to provide a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the overall accessibility of healthcare. This score will help prospective residents understand the practicalities of moving to Fredericktown.

The prevalence of hypertension, or high blood pressure, necessitates regular medical check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments. In a rural setting like Fredericktown, the ability to readily access healthcare becomes a significant factor in managing this chronic condition. Transportation, therefore, emerges as a pivotal determinant of health outcomes.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Route to Care**

For many Fredericktown residents, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. The drive times to the nearest medical centers are crucial. The most direct route to healthcare often involves navigating the local roadways.

The primary artery for travel is Pennsylvania Route 88, which runs north-south through the area. Traveling north on Route 88, residents can reach the nearest medical facilities in the town of California, PA, approximately a 20-minute drive, depending on traffic. This drive involves navigating a mix of residential and rural roads, requiring drivers to be mindful of speed limits and potential hazards.

Further afield, a drive to Washington Hospital, a more comprehensive healthcare provider, involves traveling on Route 88 to the intersection with Interstate 70. From there, drivers can head west on I-70 to reach the hospital. This journey typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

The condition of the roads is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can pose challenges, potentially increasing travel times and the risk of accidents. The availability of parking at these facilities is generally adequate, but it's always advisable to factor in extra time for parking, especially during peak hours.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Fredericktown are limited. The Greene County Transit Authority (GCTA) provides public bus services within the county. However, the frequency and routes are limited, making it a less-than-ideal option for regular medical appointments, especially for those with mobility issues.

The GCTA operates on a demand-response basis, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. The buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the need to schedule rides in advance and the potential for longer travel times due to route deviations can pose significant challenges for individuals with hypertension, who may require frequent and timely medical attention.

The lack of readily available public transit underscores the importance of alternative transportation options for residents without access to personal vehicles.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the broader Washington, PA, area, but their availability in Fredericktown may be limited, especially during off-peak hours. This can pose a challenge for residents who need immediate transportation to medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer another option. These services are designed to transport individuals with medical needs who cannot drive themselves. However, they can be expensive and may require pre-authorization from insurance companies.

The availability of these services in Fredericktown is variable. Residents should research local providers and familiarize themselves with the procedures for booking and paying for medical transport.

**Healthcare Access: Location, Location, Location**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is another critical factor. While Fredericktown itself lacks a major hospital or clinic, residents have access to nearby options in California and Washington. The presence of these facilities, even if they require a drive, provides a crucial safety net for residents managing hypertension.

The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies within a reasonable distance is also essential. Residents should research the healthcare providers in the area and ensure they can access the necessary medical services.

**Hypertension Score: Assessing Accessibility**

Considering the factors discussed above, we can assign a preliminary "Hypertension Score" to ZIP code 15333. This score is a subjective assessment of the overall accessibility of healthcare for individuals managing hypertension.

* **Drive Times:** The drive times to healthcare facilities are moderate, with the nearest options accessible within 20-40 minutes.
* **Public Transit:** Public transit options are limited, posing a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transport:** Ride-share availability may be limited, and medical transport can be expensive and require pre-authorization.
* **Healthcare Access:** Residents have access to nearby healthcare facilities, but the lack of immediate on-site options necessitates travel.

**Overall Score:** Considering the limitations of public transportation, the potential challenges of ride-sharing, and the need to drive to healthcare facilities, the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 15333 is a **3 out of 5**. This score indicates that while healthcare is accessible, there are significant transportation-related barriers that residents must navigate.

**Recommendations for Residents**

* **Prioritize Personal Transportation:** Owning or having access to a reliable vehicle is crucial for managing hypertension in Fredericktown.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing Options:** Research the availability of ride-sharing services and consider them as a backup option for medical appointments.
* **Investigate Medical Transport:** Familiarize yourself with local medical transport providers and understand the procedures for booking and paying for their services.
* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule medical appointments in advance and factor in travel time, potential traffic delays, and parking.
* **Stay Informed:** Keep abreast of any changes in public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, or medical transport services.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Road to Wellness**

Moving to Fredericktown, PA, offers a peaceful lifestyle, but managing hypertension requires careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access. While the community provides access to essential medical services, residents must proactively address the transportation challenges. By understanding the available options and planning accordingly, individuals with hypertension can effectively navigate the road to wellness in Fredericktown, ensuring they receive the timely and consistent medical care they need.