15721, Burnside, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15721, Burnside, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.00 percent of residents in 15721 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 15.07 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Burnside (ZIP Code 15721)

The quiet borough of Burnside, nestled within ZIP Code 15721, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. Assessing this access requires a multifaceted approach, considering transportation options, distance to medical facilities, and the availability of specialized care. Our "Hypertension Score" for Burnside will delve into these aspects, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by residents seeking timely and effective healthcare. The aim is to empower individuals, especially those considering moving to Burnside, with the knowledge needed to navigate the healthcare system successfully.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is transportation. In Burnside, the reliance on personal vehicles is significant. The primary arteries for travel are **U.S. Route 119** and **Pennsylvania Route 553**. These highways connect Burnside to larger towns and cities where specialized medical services are more readily available. Drive times, however, can be a significant factor. For instance, a trip to Indiana Regional Medical Center, the closest major hospital, typically takes around 20-30 minutes via Route 119, depending on traffic.

The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further impact accessibility. Snow and ice can significantly increase travel times and pose safety risks, especially for individuals with health concerns like hypertension. The distance to pharmacies for medication refills and the availability of home healthcare services also need to be considered when evaluating overall accessibility.

Public transportation options in Burnside are limited, which poses a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The local transit authority, Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA), offers bus routes. However, these routes may not directly serve all areas of Burnside or provide frequent service, especially during evenings and weekends. ADA accessibility features, such as ramps and lifts, are available on ICTA buses, making them accessible to individuals with mobility limitations.

The frequency and coverage of these routes are crucial. Residents need reliable public transportation to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and other healthcare-related destinations. The lack of convenient public transit can exacerbate the challenges of managing hypertension, potentially leading to delayed care and poorer health outcomes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and cost can vary. Ride-sharing can be a viable alternative for those unable to drive or lacking access to public transportation. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier, especially for individuals with limited incomes or those requiring frequent medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather, also needs to be considered.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, offer another option. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare often contract with insurance providers to offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services can provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. The availability of these services in Burnside, and the eligibility requirements, are essential factors to consider.

The availability of healthcare providers within Burnside itself is another critical element. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals directly impacts the ease of access. The proximity of pharmacies, where medications can be obtained, is also essential. The lack of local healthcare resources necessitates travel to neighboring towns, increasing the reliance on transportation and potentially delaying care.

The presence of specialized care, such as cardiology clinics or endocrinologists, is particularly relevant for individuals with hypertension. Access to these specialists is often crucial for proper diagnosis, treatment, and management of the condition. The distance to these specialists and the availability of transportation to reach them are critical factors in the Hypertension Score.

Furthermore, the availability of telehealth services can mitigate some of the transportation challenges. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. The availability of reliable internet access and the patient's comfort level with technology are important considerations.

The cost of healthcare, including transportation costs, also plays a significant role. The financial burden of frequent medical appointments, medication costs, and transportation expenses can impact an individual's ability to manage their hypertension effectively. The availability of financial assistance programs and resources for low-income individuals is a crucial factor in the overall healthcare access picture.

The overall Hypertension Score for Burnside, therefore, is not a single number but a complex assessment. It considers the drive times on **U.S. Route 119** and **Pennsylvania Route 553**, the limitations of public transit with ICTA, the fluctuating availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the potential benefits of medical transportation. The accessibility of local healthcare providers, the availability of specialized care, and the presence of telehealth options also contribute to the score.

For someone moving to Burnside, the score should guide their healthcare decisions. Understanding the transportation landscape, the healthcare infrastructure, and the potential challenges is vital. The goal is to ensure that residents can access the care they need, when they need it, to effectively manage their hypertension and maintain their overall health. The score is a dynamic assessment, subject to change based on improvements in transportation, the addition of healthcare resources, and the evolution of telehealth options. This constant assessment provides a valuable tool for residents and those considering moving to Burnside.