15520, Acosta, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15520, Acosta, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.98 percent of residents in 15520 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Somerset with a distance of 7.16 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Acosta, PA (ZIP Code 15520)

Acosta, Pennsylvania, nestled within the scenic embrace of Somerset County, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and the challenges of accessing vital healthcare services. For individuals considering a move to this community, understanding the ease of reaching medical care, particularly for those managing hypertension, is paramount. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 15520, focusing on commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the accessibility of healthcare.

The geographical reality of Acosta dictates that personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The town itself is small, with limited internal public transit. However, the surrounding area, where most medical facilities are located, necessitates navigating roadways. A key artery is **US Route 219**, a north-south highway providing access to Somerset, the county seat, and further afield to Johnstown and beyond. Travel times along Route 219 can vary significantly depending on traffic and weather conditions, particularly during the winter months when snow and ice are prevalent.

Another crucial route is **Pennsylvania Route 601**, which intersects with Route 219, offering a more direct path to some healthcare providers in the region. Smaller local roads, such as **Acosta Road** and **Hollsopple Road**, provide access to residential areas and connect to the main highways. The drive time to the closest primary care physician in Acosta is typically under 10 minutes, but specialized care often requires a longer journey.

Somerset Hospital, the nearest major medical facility, is approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive from Acosta via Route 219. This drive time is a crucial factor for individuals managing hypertension, as prompt access to medical attention can be life-saving. Further specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, may necessitate travel to Johnstown, a journey of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This extended travel time underscores the importance of proactive health management and readily available transportation options.

Public transportation options in and around Acosta are limited. The **Somerset County Transportation Authority (SCTA)** provides a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is available to residents of Acosta, but the availability and frequency of trips can be restricted, particularly for those needing immediate medical attention. The SCTA operates a fleet of vehicles, some of which are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the reliance on pre-scheduled appointments and the potential for longer wait times can be a significant barrier to healthcare access.

The absence of fixed-route public transit within Acosta and the limited scope of the SCTA highlight the challenges faced by individuals without access to a personal vehicle. This situation underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Somerset County area, but their availability in Acosta itself may be less consistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including **First Transit** and **Care Ride**. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles, and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services often require pre-booking and may involve associated costs, which can add to the overall financial burden of healthcare access.

For individuals managing hypertension, timely access to medication refills, routine check-ups, and emergency medical care is critical. The transportation infrastructure in Acosta presents both opportunities and challenges in this regard. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for longer travel times to specialized care facilities necessitate careful consideration.

The "Hypertension Score" for Acosta, PA (ZIP code 15520) reflects the interplay of these factors. The score considers the average drive times to various healthcare providers, the availability and reliability of public transit and ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transportation options. A higher score indicates greater ease of access to healthcare, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Acosta, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, their access to a personal vehicle, and their willingness to utilize alternative transportation options. Those with hypertension should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities and consider the potential impact of travel times on their ability to manage their condition effectively.

The beauty of Acosta and the surrounding Somerset County area is undeniable. However, the transportation landscape must be carefully considered when evaluating healthcare access. The availability of personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the reliance on pre-scheduled medical transportation services all play a role in determining the "Hypertension Score" for this community. Understanding these factors is crucial for individuals considering moving to Acosta and for those already residing there, ensuring that they can effectively navigate the transportation challenges and receive the healthcare they need.