15783, West Lebanon, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15783, West Lebanon, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.33 percent of residents in 15783 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Acmh Hospital with a distance of 18.22 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15783 (West Lebanon, PA)**

The quiet, rural community of West Lebanon, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 15783, presents a unique set of challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This analysis assesses the transportation landscape, revealing the practical realities of reaching essential medical appointments, considering the implications for those considering moving to this area. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score," a tool for understanding the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare, which is critical for managing this chronic condition.

The core of this assessment revolves around transportation. The ability to get to and from medical appointments directly impacts a patient's ability to adhere to treatment plans, which is crucial for controlling blood pressure. Transportation options in West Lebanon are limited, largely reliant on personal vehicles. This creates a potential barrier, especially for those without a car, those with mobility limitations, or those who prefer not to drive. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, all factored into a composite view of healthcare access.

Drive times form the backbone of this evaluation. The primary arteries for travel are State Route 210 and U.S. Route 119. These roads connect West Lebanon to surrounding towns and cities where medical facilities are located. The closest hospital, Indiana Regional Medical Center, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic and specific location within the ZIP code. This drive, while manageable, can be a significant factor for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis or those needing frequent check-ups.

Other medical facilities, such as specialist offices and outpatient clinics, may require longer drives. For example, access to specialized cardiology services might necessitate a 45-60 minute drive to facilities in Johnstown or Pittsburgh, potentially adding stress and inconvenience for patients. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further complicate these commutes.

Public transportation options in West Lebanon are extremely limited. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides some service, but routes are infrequent and may not directly serve all areas of the ZIP code. Furthermore, the ICTA routes are not necessarily designed with medical appointments in mind, which can lead to lengthy travel times and multiple transfers. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial consideration, particularly for individuals with mobility impairments. The ICTA does offer some ADA-accessible vehicles, but their availability on specific routes and times needs to be confirmed.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. Relying on these services for regular transportation to healthcare is not always reliable.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or lack other transportation options. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services in the region. These services can transport patients to and from medical appointments, but they often require advance booking and may have limited availability. The cost of NEMT services can also be substantial, and it may not be covered by all insurance plans.

The "Hypertension Score" will also consider the proximity of pharmacies. Having easy access to medication refills is essential for managing hypertension. The availability of pharmacies within the ZIP code and surrounding areas is a key factor. The presence of pharmacies with drive-through services can further enhance convenience.

For those considering moving to West Lebanon, the transportation landscape's implications for healthcare access should be a primary consideration. The ability to manage hypertension effectively depends on consistent access to medical care and medication. This score will provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare in this community.

The "Hypertension Score" will consider the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Average travel times to the nearest hospital, specialist offices, and pharmacies.
* **Public Transit:** Availability, frequency, and accessibility of ICTA routes, including ADA compliance.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Availability and reliability of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transport:** Availability, cost, and insurance coverage of NEMT services.
* **Pharmacy Access:** Proximity of pharmacies and availability of drive-through services.
* **Road Conditions:** Impact of weather and road maintenance on travel times.

Each factor will be weighted based on its impact on healthcare access. For example, drive times to essential medical facilities will be given a higher weight than the availability of ride-sharing services. The final score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better healthcare access.

The "Hypertension Score" is designed to be a practical tool for individuals with hypertension or those considering moving to West Lebanon. It will provide a clear understanding of the transportation challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare in this community. This information is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare management and overall well-being.

The final "Hypertension Score" for West Lebanon, PA (ZIP code 15783) will be a numerical representation of the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare, specifically for individuals managing hypertension. This score will be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the factors considered and recommendations for improving healthcare access, such as exploring alternative transportation options, advocating for improved public transit services, or connecting with local resources that can provide assistance. The score will be updated periodically to reflect changes in the transportation landscape and healthcare services available in the area. The goal is to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being, ensuring that they have the resources they need to effectively manage their hypertension. This information is crucial for anyone contemplating moving to West Lebanon, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and consistent medical care.