15773, Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15773, Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.45 percent of residents in 15773 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 27.04 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15773 (Saint Benedict)

The quaint borough of Saint Benedict, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Cambria County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for its residents, particularly concerning their health. This write-up, a “Hypertension Score” assessment, delves into the realities of **healthcare access** for individuals living in ZIP Code 15773, focusing on **transportation** options and their impact on managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent medical attention. This analysis is especially relevant for those **moving to Saint Benedict**, as understanding these factors is crucial for ensuring continuity of care.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a serious condition that demands regular monitoring and medication adherence. Effective management hinges on timely and reliable access to healthcare providers, including physicians, specialists, and pharmacies. The ability to reach these resources, often referred to as **healthcare access**, is significantly influenced by the available **transportation** options. In Saint Benedict, the landscape is shaped by its rural setting, making the availability and efficiency of these options paramount.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in 15773 is the personal vehicle. The borough itself is small, but the nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in neighboring towns like Ebensburg and Johnstown. Reaching Ebensburg, the county seat, typically involves traveling along Route 219, a major north-south highway. The drive, depending on traffic, can take approximately 15-20 minutes. Johnstown, a larger city offering a wider range of medical services, is accessible via Route 219 and the more direct Route 422, resulting in a drive time of roughly 30-45 minutes.

These drive times, while seemingly manageable, can become obstacles for individuals with hypertension. Unexpected traffic, adverse weather conditions, or vehicle maintenance issues can disrupt scheduled appointments, medication refills, and emergency care. Furthermore, the financial burden of owning and maintaining a vehicle, including fuel costs, insurance, and repairs, adds another layer of complexity, particularly for those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources.

Public **transportation** options in 15773 are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus service, but its routes and schedules may not always align with the needs of individuals seeking healthcare. The CCTA operates several routes, but service frequency is often restricted, particularly on weekends and evenings. For instance, a potential route might involve taking the CCTA Route 20, which runs from Johnstown to Ebensburg, and transferring to a local route that serves areas closer to Saint Benedict.

However, the CCTA’s routes may not directly serve the borough itself, requiring a walk or a ride-share from a designated stop. Furthermore, the availability of buses with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility, such as ramps and lifts, is essential for individuals with mobility impairments. While the CCTA strives to provide accessible services, the availability of these features on all routes and at all times needs to be considered.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** option. However, their availability in rural areas like Saint Benedict can be inconsistent. The presence of drivers and the associated surge pricing during peak hours or emergencies can significantly impact their affordability and reliability. Individuals with hypertension may find themselves reliant on ride-sharing services in situations where they cannot drive or lack access to other options, making the reliability of these services critical.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, represent another potential solution. Companies such as MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) often provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services. These services are typically equipped with trained personnel and specialized vehicles, catering to the needs of individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance.

However, NEMT services are often costly and may require prior arrangements. The availability of these services in 15773 and the surrounding areas needs to be assessed, considering factors such as insurance coverage, waiting times, and the distance to healthcare facilities. The ability to secure timely and affordable NEMT is crucial for ensuring that individuals with hypertension can attend their appointments and receive necessary medical care.

The distance to pharmacies is another factor to consider. While Saint Benedict may have a local pharmacy, the availability of specialized medications or the need to access a pharmacy with extended hours may necessitate travel to larger towns like Ebensburg or Johnstown. The **transportation** challenges discussed above directly impact the ability to access medications promptly and consistently, a critical aspect of managing hypertension.

The overall “Hypertension Score” for 15773, therefore, is influenced by several interconnected factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services all contribute to the complexity of **healthcare access**. Individuals **moving to Saint Benedict** must carefully evaluate these factors and develop a comprehensive plan to ensure they can effectively manage their hypertension.

This plan should include identifying readily accessible healthcare providers, establishing reliable **transportation** arrangements, and understanding the available support services. It is crucial to explore the CCTA routes, assess the availability of ride-sharing services, and investigate the NEMT options in the area. Furthermore, individuals should familiarize themselves with the location of pharmacies and the availability of medication delivery services.

The "Hypertension Score" for 15773 is not a single number but a holistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities. The key to successful hypertension management in this borough lies in proactive planning, resourcefulness, and a commitment to prioritizing healthcare access. By carefully considering the **transportation** landscape and taking steps to overcome the inherent challenges, residents of Saint Benedict can improve their chances of living healthy and fulfilling lives.