15449, Keisterville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15449, Keisterville, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.17 percent of residents in 15449 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Uniontown Hospital with a distance of 4.93 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15449

The heart of Fayette County, Pennsylvania, beats within the confines of ZIP Code 15449, encompassing the charming, yet geographically complex, community of Keisterville. This area, while offering a quaint lifestyle, presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within and around 15449, assessing its impact on the ability to reach essential medical services, ultimately formulating a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of navigating the healthcare system.

The primary concern for residents of Keisterville, especially those with hypertension, is the reliance on personal vehicles. The rugged terrain and dispersed population necessitate a car for most errands, including medical appointments. The journey to healthcare facilities often involves navigating winding roads and traversing significant distances.

The major arteries serving 15449 include Route 40, the historic National Road, and Route 119. Route 40, though a vital east-west corridor, can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Route 119, a north-south route, provides access to larger towns and cities but is often subject to seasonal weather conditions, potentially impacting travel times. Secondary roads, such as Keisterville Road and Layton Road, offer alternative routes but are often narrower and less well-maintained, adding to the travel time and potential stress, a critical factor for individuals with hypertension.

Drive times to key healthcare providers are a significant consideration. The nearest hospital, Uniontown Hospital, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on the starting point within 15449 and traffic conditions. Specialty clinics and physician offices may necessitate a longer commute, potentially exceeding an hour, especially if located in Morgantown, West Virginia, or Pittsburgh. These extended travel times can be a deterrent for regular check-ups and medication management, crucial components of hypertension control.

Public transportation options are limited in 15449, posing a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles. The Fayette Area Coordinated Transportation (FACT) operates within the county, offering bus services. However, the routes are infrequent, and the service area may not adequately cover all areas of Keisterville. The availability of ADA-compliant buses is a critical aspect for individuals with mobility limitations, further impacting their ability to access healthcare. The lack of readily available and convenient public transportation significantly elevates the "Hypertension Score."

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas of 15449. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliance on ride-sharing, while offering a solution, adds an element of uncertainty and expense, further complicating healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, are available. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those unable to drive themselves. However, the availability of these services may be limited, and the booking process can be complex. The cost of medical transportation can also be substantial, potentially creating a financial burden for patients.

The impact of transportation challenges on hypertension management is multifaceted. The stress of navigating traffic, the potential for extended travel times, and the lack of readily available public transportation can all contribute to elevated blood pressure levels. Furthermore, the difficulty in accessing healthcare can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and non-adherence to medication regimens, ultimately exacerbating the condition.

For individuals considering moving to Keisterville, a thorough assessment of transportation options is paramount. The proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transportation, and the reliability of ride-sharing services should be carefully evaluated. Understanding the potential challenges of accessing healthcare is crucial for making an informed decision.

The "Hypertension Score" for 15449 reflects the cumulative impact of these transportation factors. Considering the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the potential for extended drive times, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, the "Hypertension Score" for 15449 is moderately challenging. The score suggests that individuals with hypertension may face significant hurdles in accessing timely and consistent healthcare.

The score is not intended to discourage individuals from residing in Keisterville, but rather to provide a realistic assessment of the healthcare landscape. Individuals with hypertension should proactively plan for their healthcare needs, exploring all available transportation options and establishing a strong relationship with their healthcare providers.

The score also highlights the need for community initiatives to improve healthcare access. This could include advocating for expanded public transportation routes, promoting ride-sharing programs, and supporting the development of telemedicine services. These efforts can help mitigate the transportation challenges and improve the overall health and well-being of residents with hypertension in Keisterville.

The "Hypertension Score" for 15449 is a dynamic measure, subject to change based on evolving transportation infrastructure and healthcare services. Regular updates and assessments are essential to ensure that the score accurately reflects the realities of healthcare access in the community. The ultimate goal is to create a healthcare environment that supports the well-being of all residents, regardless of their transportation capabilities.