15427, Daisytown, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15427, Daisytown, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.59 percent of residents in 15427 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Mon Valley with a distance of 8.61 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15427

Understanding the challenges of accessing healthcare, especially for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension, is crucial for community well-being. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 15427, a region encompassing Daisytown, and examines the ease of transportation to medical facilities, a key factor in managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension is consistent access to medical care. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and the ability to promptly address health concerns are essential. Transportation difficulties can significantly impede these needs, potentially leading to uncontrolled blood pressure and associated health complications. This write-up, therefore, provides a detailed assessment of the transportation landscape in and around Daisytown, allowing residents to better understand their healthcare access situation.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

For residents of 15427, the most direct route to healthcare facilities often involves personal vehicles. The primary thoroughfare is Route 40, a major east-west artery connecting Daisytown to surrounding towns like Brownsville and Uniontown. Traveling east on Route 40 provides access to various medical offices and the Uniontown Hospital, the closest major hospital.

The drive to Uniontown Hospital, approximately 15 miles east of Daisytown, typically takes between 25 and 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Route 40 can experience congestion, especially during peak commuting hours. Alternative routes, such as utilizing local roads like Redstone Road and Old National Pike, can offer some relief, but these roads are often narrower and may not be as well-maintained.

Heading west on Route 40 leads towards Brownsville and other smaller medical clinics. Drive times to these facilities are generally shorter, ranging from 10 to 20 minutes. However, the availability of specialized medical services may be limited in these closer locations.

Another important road is Route 166, which intersects with Route 40 and provides access to areas north and south of Daisytown. However, these routes may not always lead directly to medical facilities, requiring transfers or longer travel times. Understanding the nuances of these roadways is crucial for residents planning their healthcare journeys.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation in 15427 presents a more complex picture. The Fayette County Transportation Authority (FCTA) provides bus services within the county, including routes that may serve Daisytown. However, the frequency of these routes can be limited, especially on weekends and evenings.

Identifying specific route numbers serving Daisytown requires further investigation. Potential routes may include the "Uniontown-Brownsville" route, which could offer a connection to medical facilities along Route 40. However, the schedules and stops need to be carefully reviewed to determine their suitability for healthcare appointments.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of FCTA buses is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. FCTA is required to provide accessible services, including wheelchair lifts and other accommodations. However, verifying the availability and reliability of these features on specific routes is essential.

The success of public transit depends on its convenience and reliability. Long wait times, infrequent service, and potential for delays can be significant barriers to healthcare access. Residents must carefully evaluate the feasibility of public transit based on their individual needs and appointment schedules.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Uniontown area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in Daisytown and the surrounding rural areas may be less consistent. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies operate in the region, including those specializing in non-emergency medical transport. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations.

The cost of medical transportation can vary depending on the distance, type of service, and insurance coverage. Residents should investigate their insurance policies to determine if medical transportation is covered and what the associated out-of-pocket expenses might be.

**Assessing the Hypertension Score:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 15427, therefore, is a composite measure reflecting the accessibility of healthcare based on the factors outlined above. The score will likely be influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited availability of public transit, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation.

For individuals with hypertension, a high score (indicating better access) would be characterized by short drive times, reliable public transit options, and readily available alternative transportation. A lower score would reflect longer drive times, infrequent public transit, and potential difficulties in securing ride-sharing or medical transport.

The score is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that can be influenced by various factors, including the individual's mobility, financial resources, and access to support networks. The goal is to provide a realistic view of the transportation challenges and to encourage proactive planning for healthcare needs.

**Moving to Daisytown and Healthcare Access:**

For those considering moving to Daisytown, understanding the healthcare access situation is paramount. Individuals with hypertension should carefully evaluate the transportation options available and assess their ability to meet their healthcare needs.

Before making a move, prospective residents should research the availability of medical facilities, the drive times to these facilities, and the public transit options. They should also investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

Living in Daisytown offers a unique blend of rural charm and community spirit. However, the challenges of transportation to healthcare facilities should be considered carefully. By understanding the "Hypertension Score" and the factors that influence it, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they have access to the care they need.