15412, Allenport, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15412, Allenport, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.60 percent of residents in 15412 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Mon Valley with a distance of 6.85 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Accessing Healthcare in Allenport (ZIP Code 15412)

The quiet borough of Allenport, nestled within the embrace of ZIP Code 15412, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for its residents, especially those managing hypertension. This write-up delves into the intricate web of transportation options, evaluating their impact on healthcare access, a critical component in managing this chronic condition. Understanding the realities of getting to medical appointments is paramount, and this analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment for individuals considering moving to Allenport or currently residing there.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Allenport, and the surrounding region, is the automobile. The ability to drive oneself, or rely on a driver, significantly influences the ease with which one can reach medical facilities. The primary arteries for transportation are the well-maintained, yet sometimes congested, **Pennsylvania Route 88** and **Pennsylvania Route 40**. These roads, while offering direct routes to nearby towns like Brownsville and California, can experience delays, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

Drive times to essential healthcare services are a critical factor. For instance, a routine appointment at a primary care physician's office in Brownsville, a common destination, might take 15-20 minutes under ideal conditions. However, a sudden need for emergency care at the closest hospital, **Monongahela Valley Hospital** in Carroll Township, could involve a 30-40 minute drive, depending on traffic. The distance and potential for delays can be a significant stressor for individuals with hypertension, potentially impacting their blood pressure levels.

Public transportation options in Allenport are limited, presenting a substantial barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The **Mon Valley Transit Authority (MVTA)** provides bus service, but the routes and schedules may not be optimally aligned with medical appointment times. Furthermore, the frequency of service can be infrequent, particularly on weekends or evenings, making it challenging to adhere to prescribed treatment plans.

The MVTA buses, while offering some degree of accessibility, may not always be ideal for individuals with mobility limitations. While the MVTA strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations, ensuring accessibility on all routes, the practical realities of navigating bus stops, waiting times, and transfers can be challenging for individuals with hypertension who may also have other health concerns. The limited number of ADA-compliant features and the potential for long wait times can exacerbate existing health issues.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to public transportation and personal vehicles. Their availability in Allenport, however, is not guaranteed. The presence of these services is contingent on driver availability, which can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the demand in the area. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be unreliable and costly, especially for individuals on a fixed income.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with health needs, are another option. Companies like **CareRide** and **American Medical Response (AMR)** offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services, while providing door-to-door assistance, can be expensive and require advance booking. The cost of these services can be a significant financial burden, particularly for those with limited resources, further impacting healthcare access.

The availability of healthcare providers within Allenport itself is a crucial factor. The presence of local pharmacies, offering medication refills and basic healthcare advice, can mitigate some transportation challenges. However, the absence of a full-service medical clinic within the borough necessitates travel to neighboring towns for specialist appointments, diagnostic testing, and other essential medical services. This reliance on external healthcare facilities underscores the importance of reliable transportation options.

The "Hypertension Score" for Allenport, therefore, reflects a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport services all contribute to a potentially challenging healthcare access landscape. The drive times to essential medical facilities, coupled with the potential for delays, can further exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals managing hypertension.

Individuals considering moving to Allenport, or those already residing there, must carefully evaluate their transportation needs and resources. The ability to drive, or to rely on a caregiver who can drive, is a significant advantage. Exploring the MVTA bus routes, while acknowledging their limitations, can provide a cost-effective alternative. Researching the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services is crucial.

Furthermore, proactive planning is essential. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician in a nearby town, understanding the location of the nearest pharmacies, and developing a contingency plan for unexpected medical needs are vital steps in ensuring adequate healthcare access. The "Hypertension Score" for Allenport is not inherently negative, but it does necessitate a proactive and informed approach to healthcare management, particularly regarding transportation.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Allenport, considering the factors discussed, suggests a moderate level of healthcare access. The dependence on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. However, the proximity to Brownsville, California, and other towns with healthcare facilities, coupled with the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services (albeit at a cost), offers some degree of accessibility.

Moving to Allenport requires a realistic assessment of transportation needs. Individuals with hypertension must prioritize their healthcare access, considering the drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the potential cost of alternative transportation options. By proactively planning and adapting to the realities of healthcare access in Allenport, residents can effectively manage their condition and maintain their well-being. The journey to healthcare, while potentially challenging, is achievable with careful planning and a commitment to prioritizing health.