The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15380, Wind Ridge, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
44.92 percent of residents in 15380 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington Health System Greene with a distance of 15.07 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 15380, Wind Ridge, Pennsylvania
Hypertension Score | 50 |
---|---|
People Score | 80 |
Provider Score | 41 |
Hospital Score | 40 |
Travel Score | 31 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 15380 | Wind Ridge | Pennsylvania |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 2.54 | 2.54 | 5.04 |
1 Car | 14.21 | 14.21 | 21.45 |
2 Cars | 25.89 | 25.89 | 41.29 |
3 or More Cars | 57.36 | 57.36 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 15380, Wind Ridge, Pennsylvania
## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wind Ridge (ZIP Code 15380)
The journey to healthcare in Wind Ridge, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15380), is a crucial factor in assessing the overall health of its residents. This write-up examines the transportation landscape, a significant determinant of hypertension management and overall well-being. Understanding the ease or difficulty of accessing medical appointments, pharmacies, and specialized care is paramount, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This analysis considers various transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" for the area.
The primary challenge in this rural setting is the limited availability of public transportation. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or those with mobility limitations. This lack of options can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatments, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes, directly impacting the hypertension score.
For those with personal vehicles, the primary arteries connecting Wind Ridge to healthcare facilities are Pennsylvania Route 231 and Pennsylvania Route 18. Travel times to major hospitals and clinics in the surrounding areas, such as Washington Health System, can vary significantly depending on traffic and weather conditions. A typical drive to Washington Hospital, located approximately 20 miles away, might take around 30-45 minutes, navigating roads like PA-231 and US-19.
However, the reliance on personal vehicles presents its own set of challenges. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees can be significant financial burdens, especially for individuals on fixed incomes or those with chronic health conditions. Furthermore, inclement weather, common in southwestern Pennsylvania, can make driving hazardous, further hindering healthcare access and potentially exacerbating hypertension-related complications.
Public transit, a critical component of healthcare access, is limited in this area. The absence of readily available public transportation options significantly restricts the ability of residents to reach healthcare facilities. While some limited county-operated transit services may exist, they often operate on restricted schedules and routes, potentially making them impractical for routine medical appointments. The lack of ADA-accessible features on available transit options further compounds the challenges for individuals with disabilities, impacting their ability to manage hypertension effectively.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative, but their availability and affordability in rural areas can be inconsistent. The presence of ride-sharing services, while potentially offering a convenient solution, is often contingent on driver availability and demand. Surge pricing, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather, can make these services prohibitively expensive for some residents, creating an additional barrier to healthcare access.
Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies, are primarily designed for emergency situations. While these services are essential for critical care, they are typically not intended for routine medical appointments. The cost of medical transport can also be substantial, potentially adding to the financial strain of managing hypertension.
The "Hypertension Score" for Wind Ridge, therefore, reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access. The limited public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential cost and availability issues associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services contribute to a lower score. This score highlights the need for improved transportation infrastructure and services to ensure that all residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension, can easily access the healthcare they need.
For individuals considering moving to Wind Ridge, the transportation landscape should be a significant consideration. The ability to maintain regular medical appointments, access pharmacies, and receive specialized care is crucial for managing hypertension effectively. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and resources before making a move.
To improve the "Hypertension Score" and enhance healthcare access in Wind Ridge, several strategies could be implemented. Expanding public transportation routes and schedules, particularly to connect residents with healthcare facilities, would be beneficial. Increasing the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, potentially through subsidies or partnerships with healthcare providers, could also improve access.
Furthermore, promoting community-based transportation initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs or carpooling arrangements, could provide additional support for residents. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as better roads and sidewalks, would enhance the safety and convenience of all transportation options.
The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing the impact of transportation on healthcare access in Wind Ridge. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, stakeholders can work together to create a more accessible and equitable healthcare system for all residents. This includes promoting the importance of regular medical checkups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications, all of which are essential for managing hypertension and improving overall health outcomes.
In conclusion, the transportation infrastructure in Wind Ridge significantly influences the ability of residents to manage their hypertension. The limited public transit, reliance on personal vehicles, and the challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services contribute to a lower "Hypertension Score." Addressing these transportation barriers is crucial for improving healthcare access and ensuring the well-being of all residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions.
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