15546, Jenners, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15546, Jenners, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.25 percent of residents in 15546 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Somerset with a distance of 9.56 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15546

The picturesque landscape of ZIP Code 15546, encompassing the charming community of Jenners, Pennsylvania, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, especially for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape, a crucial factor in determining the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, thereby influencing their ability to effectively manage their condition. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, highlighting the complexities of navigating the region's transportation infrastructure.

The foundation of assessing healthcare accessibility lies in understanding the available transportation options. For residents of Jenners, the primary mode of transport is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Driving is often the most direct and convenient method for reaching medical appointments. The major thoroughfare serving the area is **US Route 30**, which offers a relatively straightforward route to larger towns and cities where specialized medical care is more readily available. The drive to Johnstown, a regional hub with a variety of medical facilities, typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination.

**Pennsylvania Route 56** provides an alternative route, especially for destinations to the north. However, this road can be more winding and subject to seasonal weather conditions, potentially increasing travel times and posing challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those concerned about the impact of weather on their health. The drive to Windber, a smaller town with some healthcare options, is generally shorter, averaging around 15 to 20 minutes.

Smaller local roads, such as **Jenners Road** and **Hollsopple Road**, provide access to local services and connect to the major highways. These roads, while convenient for local errands, are less suitable for longer journeys to specialized medical facilities. The condition of these roads can vary, and during inclement weather, they may become difficult or even impassable, further complicating healthcare access.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. The primary provider is the **Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA)**. The CCTA operates a network of bus routes, but service to Jenners and the surrounding rural areas is infrequent. Route availability is often limited to weekdays, with reduced or no service on weekends and holidays. It is essential to note that the CCTA's routes may not directly serve medical facilities, necessitating transfers and longer travel times.

The CCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, featuring ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This is a crucial consideration for residents with mobility limitations who may require assistance with transportation. However, the limited frequency and routing of the CCTA buses can still present significant barriers to healthcare access for those who rely on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area. However, their presence in Jenners is less consistent. Ride availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. These services typically cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, offering a range of services from basic transportation to wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, availability and cost can vary, and it is essential to research and book these services in advance.

For individuals considering moving to Jenners, or for current residents seeking to improve their health management, understanding these transportation complexities is crucial. The "Hypertension Score" for Jenners reflects the challenges in accessing healthcare. The score considers drive times, public transit limitations, ride-share availability, and the cost and availability of medical transport services. A lower score indicates greater accessibility, while a higher score reflects increased barriers.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, especially those offering specialized cardiology services, directly impact the Hypertension Score. Longer drive times increase the risk of delays in receiving timely medical attention. This is particularly relevant for individuals experiencing acute hypertensive crises or requiring regular monitoring.

The limited public transit options further exacerbate the challenges. The lack of frequent and direct bus routes to medical facilities can force individuals to rely on less reliable modes of transport or seek assistance from family and friends. This can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are also critical factors. The cost of these services can be a significant burden, especially for individuals with limited incomes or those requiring frequent appointments. The reliability of these services, particularly in rural areas, can also be a concern.

The physical condition of the roads, especially during winter, can also affect the Hypertension Score. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, increasing travel times and potentially delaying access to medical care. This is particularly relevant for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or mobility limitations.

The "Hypertension Score" for Jenners would likely be moderately high, reflecting the challenges in accessing healthcare due to the limited transportation options. While driving offers a relatively direct route, the reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, creates barriers for some residents.

To improve the Hypertension Score, several measures could be implemented. Increasing the frequency and reach of CCTA bus routes, particularly to serve medical facilities, would significantly improve healthcare access for those who rely on public transit. Promoting ride-sharing services and making them more readily available in the area would also be beneficial.

Furthermore, supporting the development of medical transport services and ensuring their affordability would provide crucial assistance to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized transportation. Finally, improving road maintenance and addressing seasonal weather challenges would contribute to safer and more reliable transportation options.

In conclusion, the transportation landscape in Jenners, Pennsylvania, presents both opportunities and challenges for residents managing hypertension. While driving offers a relatively convenient option, the limited availability of alternative transportation methods creates barriers to healthcare access. By understanding these complexities and implementing targeted improvements, the community can work towards creating a more accessible and supportive environment for individuals managing hypertension and other health conditions. This will ultimately improve their health outcomes and enhance their quality of life in this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, area.