15360, Scenery Hill, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15360, Scenery Hill, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.23 percent of residents in 15360 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington Hospital, The with a distance of 10.82 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Scenery Hill (ZIP Code 15360)

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, hinges significantly on accessible healthcare. In the charming, rural community of Scenery Hill, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15360), the availability and ease of **transportation** to medical facilities directly impact the quality of life for residents. This write-up will dissect the **healthcare access** landscape, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment based on various **transportation** modalities. The goal is to offer a clear understanding for current residents and those considering **moving to Scenery Hill**, particularly those managing hypertension.

The primary concern for residents of Scenery Hill is the relative isolation from major medical centers. The village itself lacks a dedicated hospital or comprehensive clinic. Therefore, residents must rely on **transportation** to reach healthcare providers located in neighboring towns and cities. This immediately introduces a layer of complexity, potentially impacting timely access to crucial medical appointments and interventions.

The cornerstone of **transportation** in this area is the automobile. For those with personal vehicles, the commute to healthcare facilities is manageable, albeit time-consuming. The most direct route to Washington Health System, a primary healthcare provider, involves traversing PA-40 East. The drive, typically taking around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic, covers approximately 15 miles. This route is generally well-maintained, but can experience delays during peak hours. Another option is to travel north on PA-40, then east on I-70. This adds distance but can sometimes offer a faster commute, especially during periods of heavy traffic on PA-40.

For specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, residents may need to travel further afield to Pittsburgh, approximately 40 miles away. This journey necessitates utilizing I-70 West and then various routes depending on the specific destination within the city. The drive time can range from 45 minutes to over an hour, particularly during rush hour. This extended travel time presents a significant challenge for individuals with hypertension, who may require frequent check-ups and prompt medical attention.

Public **transportation** options in Scenery Hill are limited, presenting a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. The primary provider is the Washington County Transportation Authority (WCTA). However, the WCTA’s routes and schedules are not designed for frequent, direct service to medical facilities. The routes are infrequent, with limited service on weekends. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, while mandated, can be subject to delays or require advance scheduling, adding another layer of complexity for individuals with mobility limitations.

The WCTA route that would serve the community is likely route 33, but it doesn't travel to Washington Hospital. The bus would need to be taken to Washington, and then another bus would be needed to travel to the hospital.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can be a concern. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day and demand, and the fares can be expensive, particularly for longer trips to Pittsburgh. For individuals with fixed incomes or limited financial resources, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access**.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to appointments, are another option. Several companies operate in the region, including First Medical Transportation and Medical Transportation Management (MTM). These services typically offer door-to-door service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, they often require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent or same-day appointments. The cost of medical **transportation** can also be substantial, particularly for frequent trips.

The "Hypertension Score" for **healthcare access** in Scenery Hill, therefore, is moderate. While residents with personal vehicles have reasonable access to healthcare facilities, those reliant on public **transportation** or ride-sharing face significant challenges. The limited public **transportation**, the potential unreliability and expense of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical **transportation** create barriers to timely and consistent medical care. This is particularly concerning for individuals managing hypertension, who require regular monitoring and prompt access to medical interventions.

The lack of local medical facilities further compounds the issue. The absence of a local clinic or pharmacy means that residents must travel for even routine medical needs, such as prescription refills or blood pressure checks. This further increases the reliance on **transportation** and adds to the overall burden of managing hypertension.

The impact of these **transportation** challenges extends beyond just medical appointments. It can also affect access to healthy food options, exercise facilities, and social support networks – all of which are crucial for managing hypertension. The lack of convenient access to these resources can further exacerbate the condition and negatively impact the overall health and well-being of residents.

For individuals considering **moving to Scenery Hill** and managing hypertension, a careful assessment of their **transportation** needs is crucial. The availability of a personal vehicle is highly advantageous. For those without a car, exploring the WCTA routes, researching the reliability and cost of ride-sharing services, and investigating medical **transportation** options are essential steps.

Furthermore, the community could benefit from initiatives to improve **healthcare access**. This could include advocating for increased public **transportation** services, promoting the availability of telehealth options, and supporting the establishment of a local clinic or pharmacy. Such efforts would significantly improve the "Hypertension Score" and enhance the quality of life for all residents, especially those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

In conclusion, while Scenery Hill offers a peaceful and charming environment, the limitations in **transportation** options pose a significant challenge to **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" reflects this reality, emphasizing the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure that residents can readily access the medical care they need to maintain their health and well-being. The journey to healthcare in Scenery Hill is a journey that requires careful navigation of **transportation** options, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that all residents can live healthy and fulfilling lives.