15771, Rochester Mills, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15771, Rochester Mills, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.50 percent of residents in 15771 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 8.33 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rochester Mills (ZIP Code 15771)

The quiet charm of Rochester Mills, nestled within the 15771 ZIP code, offers a serene backdrop for life. However, when considering a move, particularly for those managing hypertension, a critical factor emerges: **healthcare access**. This write-up delves into the intricacies of transportation options within and around Rochester Mills, assessing their impact on timely healthcare visits and ultimately, contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing vital medical services.

For individuals with hypertension, consistent monitoring and medication adherence are paramount. This necessitates reliable and convenient transportation to physician appointments, pharmacies, and potentially, specialized care facilities. The following analysis considers the available transportation infrastructure, evaluating its strengths and weaknesses in facilitating healthcare access for residents of Rochester Mills.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents will undoubtedly be personal vehicles. The region is served by several key roadways. Pennsylvania Route 219, a major north-south artery, provides relatively quick access to larger towns like DuBois and Punxsutawney. Pennsylvania Route 119, running east-west, offers another crucial link.

Driving times to healthcare facilities are a significant consideration. The nearest hospitals, such as Penn Highlands DuBois and Punxsutawney Area Hospital, are generally accessible within a 30 to 45-minute drive, depending on traffic and the specific location within Rochester Mills. These drive times, while manageable, can be problematic for those with limited mobility or during inclement weather. The winding nature of some roads, especially during winter months, adds to the complexity.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules may not directly serve all areas of Rochester Mills or offer frequent connections to healthcare facilities. Information on specific routes, their frequency, and ADA accessibility features should be meticulously researched. This is a crucial aspect of the Hypertension Score, as limited public transport can significantly hinder healthcare access for those unable to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their availability and reliability in a rural area like Rochester Mills can be unpredictable. Surge pricing during peak hours or when weather conditions are unfavorable could also pose a financial barrier. The availability of these services should be verified, and their cost-effectiveness assessed against other transportation alternatives.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs, may be an option. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate mobility aids. However, their availability, cost, and the required lead time for booking appointments must be carefully considered. Researching local medical transport providers, such as medical transport services, is essential.

The topography of the area, with its rolling hills and potential for challenging road conditions, impacts the ease of transportation. This should be factored into the overall assessment. Residents with hypertension may find it difficult to navigate certain roads, especially during periods of poor visibility or icy conditions.

The proximity of pharmacies is another crucial element. Access to medication refills is vital for managing hypertension. Assessing the distance to the nearest pharmacy, the availability of home delivery services, and the convenience of their operating hours are essential.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Rochester Mills, based on the assessment of transportation options, would reflect the following:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate, with access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable timeframe, but potential for longer travel during peak hours or adverse weather.
* **Public Transportation:** Limited, potentially hindering access for those without personal vehicles. Thorough research into ICTA routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility is essential.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Availability may be limited and subject to fluctuations in price and reliability.
* **Medical Transportation:** Could be a viable option, but requires investigation into local providers, costs, and booking procedures.
* **Pharmacy Access:** Proximity and convenience of pharmacies should be assessed.

**Moving to Rochester Mills** requires a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access, especially for individuals with hypertension. The availability and reliability of transportation options directly impact the ability to manage the condition effectively. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle, the limitations in transportation infrastructure necessitate careful planning and consideration.

The Hypertension Score, therefore, should consider these factors: the need for personal vehicles or reliance on others for transportation, the potential for limited public transit options, the uncertainty of ride-sharing availability, and the potential need for specialized medical transport services. A higher score, reflecting greater ease of access, would be awarded to areas with robust transportation networks, while a lower score would indicate challenges in reaching healthcare facilities.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Rochester Mills should involve a thorough assessment of personal needs and capabilities, taking into account the complexities of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. The information provided here is intended to guide individuals in making informed decisions about their healthcare needs and overall well-being within the context of the 15771 ZIP code.