15757, Mahaffey, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15757, Mahaffey, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.20 percent of residents in 15757 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 15.10 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Mahaffey, PA (ZIP Code 15757)

The journey to managing hypertension, a silent but significant threat to well-being, often begins with readily available healthcare. However, the ease with which residents of Mahaffey, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15757) can access essential medical services is significantly influenced by their transportation options. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" for this specific locale, considers the crucial elements of transportation and healthcare access, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking to maintain their health.

Mahaffey, a small, rural community nestled in Clearfield County, presents a unique set of circumstances. The availability of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of transportation, and the financial implications of accessing care all contribute to the overall "Hypertension Score." This score, though not a numerical value, reflects the relative ease or difficulty individuals face in receiving timely and appropriate medical attention for hypertension management. Understanding these factors is paramount for both residents and those considering moving to Mahaffey, offering insights into the practicalities of daily life and healthcare management.

The primary mode of transportation in and around Mahaffey is the personal vehicle. The major thoroughfare, **US Route 219**, provides the most direct route to larger towns and cities where more comprehensive healthcare facilities are located. Driving times to these facilities are critical. For instance, a trip to Penn Highlands Clearfield, a regional hospital, typically takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Mahaffey. This drive involves navigating **US Route 219** and potentially connecting roads like **PA Route 36** or **PA Route 453**, depending on the origin point within the ZIP code.

Further afield, specialized care might necessitate travel to State College, PA, a drive of roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. This journey involves navigating **US Route 219** to **I-80 East** and then connecting to **US Route 322**. The time commitment, coupled with potential costs for fuel and vehicle maintenance, adds to the overall burden of healthcare access. For individuals with hypertension, regular check-ups and medication refills are essential, making this transportation factor a significant consideration.

Public transportation options in Mahaffey are extremely limited. The Clearfield County Area Transportation Authority (CCATA) provides some bus services, but the routes and schedules are infrequent, primarily serving the Clearfield area. These routes, if available, might involve connections and extended travel times, making them impractical for many residents, especially those with mobility limitations or requiring urgent care. The CCATA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service area and frequency diminish their overall impact on healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Clearfield area, but their presence in Mahaffey itself is inconsistent. Availability is often dependent on driver availability and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be unreliable and expensive, particularly for individuals with fixed incomes or those residing in more remote areas of the ZIP code. This lack of readily available ride-sharing further exacerbates the transportation challenges.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer an alternative. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. However, they often come with significant costs, which may not be fully covered by insurance. The availability of these services in Mahaffey and the surrounding areas should be carefully researched.

Healthcare access is not solely determined by physical proximity to medical facilities. It also encompasses the availability of healthcare providers, the cost of care, and the ability to afford medications. In Mahaffey, the presence of local family physicians and clinics is crucial. These primary care providers serve as the first point of contact for hypertension management, offering diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing monitoring. The availability of these providers and their acceptance of various insurance plans directly impacts the "Hypertension Score."

The cost of healthcare, including doctor's visits, medications, and diagnostic tests, is a significant factor. Individuals with hypertension often require multiple medications and regular check-ups, leading to substantial healthcare expenses. The affordability of these services and the availability of financial assistance programs are critical considerations.

For those considering moving to Mahaffey, a thorough assessment of the transportation landscape and healthcare infrastructure is essential. Researching the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies is crucial. Understanding the limitations of public transportation and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport services is also necessary.

The "Hypertension Score" for Mahaffey is therefore a complex equation. While the community offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle, the limitations in transportation and healthcare access present challenges for individuals managing hypertension. Residents must proactively plan for their healthcare needs, considering the time and cost associated with accessing medical services. The availability of a personal vehicle is a significant advantage, while reliance on public transportation, ride-sharing, or medical transport services can be problematic.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" in Mahaffey highlights the importance of comprehensive planning for healthcare needs. It underscores the necessity of assessing transportation options, understanding healthcare costs, and establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician. For those seeking a life in Mahaffey, a proactive approach to healthcare access is vital for maintaining optimal health and well-being.