15728, Clymer, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15728, Clymer, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.51 percent of residents in 15728 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 20.03 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15728**

The quaint borough of Clymer, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 15728, presents a unique challenge when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This condition, often requiring regular medical attention and medication, necessitates a reliable transportation system. Evaluating the ease of commute to healthcare facilities becomes paramount for anyone moving to Clymer or residing there. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of the transportation landscape, focusing on drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing options, to inform a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the accessibility of essential healthcare services.

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in and out of Clymer are Route 119 and Route 403. Route 119, a major north-south thoroughfare, connects Clymer to Indiana, the county seat, and beyond. Route 403, running east-west, provides access to surrounding communities. The drive time to Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), the primary healthcare provider for the region, is a crucial factor. Under normal traffic conditions, the journey via Route 119 typically takes between 15 to 20 minutes. This relatively short drive time is a significant advantage for residents needing prompt medical attention or routine check-ups. However, during inclement weather, such as snow or heavy rain, these drive times can increase, potentially impacting healthcare access.

Alternative healthcare facilities, such as smaller clinics and specialized practices, are scattered throughout the region. Accessing these facilities may require navigating local roads, adding to the overall commute time. Considering the potential for longer travel durations to these facilities, the "Hypertension Score" must account for this variability. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, also influences the reliability of vehicular transportation. Potholes and icy conditions can make driving treacherous, potentially deterring individuals from seeking necessary medical care.

Public transportation options in the area are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides bus services, but the routes and frequency of service in and around Clymer are not as extensive as in larger urban areas. Information on specific routes, route numbers, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features is crucial for individuals relying on public transit. The ICTA's website or local information centers would be the best resources for this information.

For individuals with hypertension, the availability of accessible public transit is essential. The ability to easily reach medical appointments without relying on a personal vehicle is a critical factor in managing their condition. Limited public transportation options can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatments, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. This underscores the importance of evaluating the frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of the ICTA's services within the "Hypertension Score."

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in many areas. However, their availability in rural areas like Clymer may be limited. The presence and reliability of these services are critical factors in determining healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or access to public transit. If ride-sharing services are available, the average wait times and cost of rides to healthcare facilities must be considered.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer another potential solution. These services, often provided by specialized companies or healthcare facilities, can be particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive. Researching the availability of medical transportation services in the area, including the names of providers, their service areas, and the associated costs, is crucial.

The "Hypertension Score" should also consider the location of pharmacies. Access to medications is a critical component of hypertension management. The proximity of pharmacies, both in Clymer and in neighboring towns, and the ease of access to these pharmacies via various transportation modes, significantly impact the overall score. The availability of prescription delivery services, if any, should also be taken into account.

When evaluating the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 15728, the following factors must be weighed: the drive time to IRMC and other healthcare facilities via Route 119 and Route 403, the availability and frequency of ICTA bus routes and their ADA accessibility, the presence and reliability of ride-sharing services, the availability of medical transportation services, and the proximity of pharmacies.

The "Hypertension Score" should also consider the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care for individuals in rural areas. The availability of telehealth appointments with local healthcare providers can mitigate some of the challenges associated with transportation. The ease of access to telehealth services, including the availability of internet access and the technical proficiency of patients, should be factored into the score.

Furthermore, the "Hypertension Score" should incorporate information about the availability of community health programs and resources. Programs that offer education, support, and resources for individuals with hypertension can play a vital role in managing the condition. The presence of such programs in Clymer or the surrounding area can enhance the overall "Hypertension Score."

For anyone moving to Clymer or considering residing there, a thorough assessment of the transportation landscape is essential. The "Hypertension Score" will provide a comprehensive overview of the accessibility of healthcare services, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The score should be a dynamic metric, updated regularly to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and community resources. This will ensure the score remains a valuable tool for individuals managing hypertension and those seeking to improve their healthcare access in the Clymer area.