15624, Crabtree, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15624, Crabtree, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.27 percent of residents in 15624 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Excela Health Latrobe Hospital with a distance of 5.31 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Crabtree (ZIP Code 15624)

Crabtree, Pennsylvania, nestled in the embrace of Westmoreland County, presents a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities for residents seeking healthcare, especially those managing hypertension. This write-up explores the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 15624, assessing its impact on healthcare access, ultimately contributing to a “Hypertension Score” reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, providing a comprehensive overview for residents and those considering moving to Crabtree.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension revolves around timely access to medical care. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and prompt attention to health concerns are crucial for managing this condition effectively. Transportation barriers can significantly impede this access, potentially leading to delayed treatment, worsening health outcomes, and increased healthcare costs. The following analysis, therefore, focuses on the transportation infrastructure available within and around Crabtree, aiming to quantify its impact on healthcare access.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in Crabtree and the surrounding areas. The primary thoroughfare is the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76)**, offering relatively swift access to larger medical centers. However, the toll road adds an extra layer of cost and complexity. **Route 119**, running north-south, provides another critical artery, connecting Crabtree to nearby towns and cities. Navigating this route can be challenging during peak hours, potentially increasing travel times. **Old Route 119**, a parallel route, offers an alternative, though it is more winding and may involve slower speeds. **Route 22**, a major east-west highway, intersects with Route 119, offering further connections to regional healthcare facilities.

The drive time to healthcare facilities is a critical factor in our Hypertension Score. For example, the drive to Excela Health Latrobe Hospital, a prominent local facility, is approximately 10-15 minutes via Route 981 and Route 30, depending on traffic. UPMC East, a larger hospital in Monroeville, requires a drive of roughly 45-60 minutes, primarily via the Pennsylvania Turnpike and Route 22. This longer travel time could be a significant barrier for those with mobility issues or who require frequent medical attention. The availability of parking at these facilities also needs consideration.

Public transportation options in Crabtree are limited, which significantly impacts the Hypertension Score. The Westmoreland Transit Authority (WTA) provides bus service, but its routes and frequency are constrained. Route 10, for example, connects Greensburg to Latrobe, passing through Crabtree. However, the schedule may not always align with medical appointment times, and the service frequency may be infrequent, particularly on weekends and evenings. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial. The WTA generally provides accessible buses, but it is essential to confirm the specific route and schedule for individual needs. The lack of extensive public transportation options in Crabtree contributes to a lower Hypertension Score, particularly for those who cannot drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. However, their availability and cost can fluctuate, especially in rural areas like Crabtree. Ride-sharing services are often more expensive than public transit, and the wait times can be unpredictable. This makes them a less reliable option for individuals with hypertension who require scheduled medical appointments. The dependence on ride-sharing can also impact the Hypertension Score, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another consideration. These services, often offered by private companies, provide door-to-door transportation and can be particularly helpful for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. However, the cost of medical transportation services can be substantial, and their availability may be limited. The accessibility of these services contributes to the overall Hypertension Score.

The impact of these transportation factors on the Hypertension Score is considerable. Residents of Crabtree, particularly those without personal vehicles, face significant challenges in accessing timely healthcare. The limited public transportation options, the dependence on driving, and the potential cost and availability issues with ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to a lower score. This means that individuals with hypertension in Crabtree may experience greater difficulty in adhering to their medical regimens, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes.

The overall Hypertension Score for Crabtree (ZIP code 15624) is therefore influenced by several factors. The lack of robust public transportation, the reliance on driving, and the potential cost and availability limitations of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to a lower score. The score is further impacted by the distance to healthcare facilities and the potential for traffic congestion.

For individuals considering moving to Crabtree, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Those who rely on public transit or have limited mobility should carefully assess the availability and accessibility of healthcare services. Individuals with hypertension should factor in the potential challenges of transportation when making their decision.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for Crabtree reflects the complexities of healthcare access in a rural environment. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, the transportation infrastructure presents significant challenges, particularly for those with limited mobility or who rely on public transit. This information is vital for residents and those considering moving to Crabtree, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The score highlights the need for improved public transportation, greater availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, and increased efforts to address transportation barriers to healthcare access in the region.