15636, Harrison City, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15636, Harrison City, Pennsylvania is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.09 percent of residents in 15636 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ahn Emerus Westmoreland, Llc with a distance of 4.85 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Accessing Healthcare in Harrison City (ZIP Code 15636)

Moving to a new community involves myriad considerations, especially concerning healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, the ease of reaching medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency services is paramount. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around Harrison City (ZIP Code 15636) to assess its "Hypertension Score," focusing on the practicalities of accessing healthcare. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for those seeking to call Harrison City home.

The foundation of any healthcare access assessment is the availability of medical facilities. In and immediately surrounding Harrison City, residents have a few primary choices. UPMC East, located in Monroeville, offers a wide range of specialized care, including cardiology services vital for hypertension management. Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital in Greensburg provides another major option, also offering comprehensive medical care. Smaller clinics and primary care physician offices are scattered throughout the area, providing more localized options for routine check-ups and medication refills. The proximity to these facilities, and the ease with which they can be reached, significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score."

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in this suburban landscape. From the heart of Harrison City, reaching UPMC East involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The primary route utilizes the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) for a portion, then transitions onto William Penn Highway (US-22) for the final stretch. The Turnpike, while efficient, incurs tolls, a factor to consider in the overall cost of healthcare access. Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital in Greensburg is a slightly longer drive, typically taking 25-35 minutes. This journey utilizes the same initial portion of the Turnpike, then switches to US-30, a major thoroughfare that can experience heavier traffic, particularly during peak hours.

Navigating these routes requires awareness of potential traffic bottlenecks. Rush hour, typically between 7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:00 PM, can significantly extend travel times. Accidents on the Turnpike or US-30 can cause major delays. Residents must factor these variables into their planning, especially when scheduling appointments or needing urgent care. The condition of the roads themselves also plays a role. Winter weather, with snow and ice, can render driving hazardous, further complicating healthcare access.

Public transportation, while available, presents limitations. The Westmoreland County Transit Authority (WCTA) provides bus service in the region. However, routes within Harrison City and to nearby healthcare facilities are limited. The primary routes serving the area are often infrequent and may not directly connect to major medical centers. For example, a bus route might get a resident to a transfer point, requiring multiple connections and potentially extended travel times. Accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges is also a concern. While WCTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating, the overall system's coverage and frequency may not adequately serve the needs of all residents, particularly those with hypertension-related mobility issues.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. These services are generally available in the Harrison City area, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, ride-sharing costs can fluctuate based on demand and distance, potentially adding to the financial burden of healthcare. Furthermore, reliability can be an issue, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather. The availability of drivers may also be limited in certain areas or at certain times of the day.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with healthcare needs. These services, often provided by private companies or healthcare systems, offer non-emergency transportation for appointments and other medical-related errands. They can be a valuable resource for those who cannot drive or have difficulty using public transportation. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have associated fees. Some healthcare providers may offer transportation assistance programs for eligible patients, which can reduce the financial strain.

Assessing the "Hypertension Score" for Harrison City requires a holistic view. The presence of major medical facilities within a reasonable driving distance is a positive factor. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays introduce challenges. The limitations of public transportation and the fluctuating costs of ride-sharing services add further complexity. Individuals considering moving to Harrison City with hypertension must carefully weigh these factors, considering their individual needs and circumstances.

The overall score for Harrison City is moderate. While healthcare facilities are accessible, transportation options are not always ideal. Residents must be prepared to manage potential traffic delays, factor in the cost of transportation, and consider the limitations of public transit. For those who are able to drive and are comfortable with ride-sharing, healthcare access is manageable. For those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations, the challenges are greater. Careful planning and a proactive approach to transportation are essential for ensuring consistent and reliable access to healthcare in Harrison City. The community is growing, and with that growth, the need for improved transportation options to healthcare access will only increase.