15675, Penn, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15675, Penn, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.15 percent of residents in 15675 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ahn Emerus Westmoreland, Llc with a distance of 2.57 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15675

The heart of the matter, especially for residents of ZIP Code 15675, is the accessibility of healthcare. This is a critical element in managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent medical attention and medication. Our "Hypertension Score" assesses the ease with which individuals in this area can reach essential healthcare services. We'll delve into the nuances of transportation, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, all vital components in ensuring timely healthcare access.

ZIP Code 15675, encompassing the town of Vandergrift, Pennsylvania, presents a unique challenge. Nestled along the Allegheny River, its topography and relative isolation influence transportation options. Moving to Penn, or relocating within the state, demands a thorough understanding of these constraints. The ability to consistently attend appointments and pick up prescriptions is paramount for individuals managing hypertension.

Driving, the most common mode of transportation, is heavily reliant on the road network. The primary artery for accessing healthcare facilities outside of Vandergrift is Pennsylvania Route 66. This highway, a vital link, provides access to the larger towns and cities where specialized medical care is concentrated.

Drive times, however, are crucial. To reach the nearest major hospital, Allegheny Valley Hospital in Natrona Heights, a journey via PA-66 and then PA-28, typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a manageable timeframe, but it necessitates a reliable vehicle and the financial means to operate it.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation offers an alternative, albeit a less convenient one. The Westmoreland Transit Authority (WTA) provides bus service in the area. However, the routes serving Vandergrift are limited, and frequency can be a significant issue.

The primary route serving Vandergrift is likely Route 20, which connects to New Kensington and other surrounding communities. This route, while offering a connection to healthcare facilities, may require transfers and extended travel times. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for those with mobility limitations. WTA buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating.

The WTA's website and local schedules are essential resources for planning trips. Waiting times, especially during off-peak hours, can be considerable. The lack of frequent service can present a real barrier to consistent healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another option, particularly for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, the availability of these services in Vandergrift is not guaranteed. The area's relative remoteness can influence the presence of drivers and the associated costs.

The cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, especially with frequent medical appointments. This financial burden can exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals managing hypertension. The reliance on these services also introduces an element of unpredictability, as availability can fluctuate.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from appointments, represent a specialized niche. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or private providers, cater to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs.

While these services offer a valuable solution, they often come with a higher price tag. The need to book in advance and the potential for limited availability further complicate the process. Researching and identifying reputable medical transportation providers in the area is a critical step.

Healthcare access is further complicated by the availability of local pharmacies. Having a convenient location to fill prescriptions is a necessity for managing hypertension. The presence of pharmacies within Vandergrift and the surrounding areas is a factor in the overall Hypertension Score.

The proximity of pharmacies to public transit stops or within reasonable walking distance is another consideration. This integration of pharmacy access with transportation options is crucial for ensuring medication adherence.

The Hypertension Score also considers the availability of primary care physicians and specialists within a reasonable distance. The ability to schedule appointments and receive timely care is essential for managing hypertension.

Specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, may require travel to larger cities like Pittsburgh. This further emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation options.

The overall Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 15675 reflects a mixed picture. While drive times to some healthcare facilities are manageable, the limitations of public transit and the potential for ride-sharing challenges create obstacles. The financial implications of transportation costs and the availability of specialized medical services further influence the score.

Moving to Penn, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions like hypertension, requires careful consideration of these factors. A thorough assessment of transportation options and the associated costs is essential.

The ability to maintain consistent healthcare access is a fundamental aspect of managing hypertension effectively. The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for residents of ZIP Code 15675, highlighting the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing essential healthcare services. The score emphasizes the need for proactive planning and a comprehensive understanding of the available transportation resources.