15821, Benezett, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15821, Benezett, Pennsylvania is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.00 percent of residents in 15821 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 12.92 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Benezett, PA (ZIP Code 15821)

The crisp air of Benezett, Pennsylvania, nestled within the heart of Elk County, offers a serene escape. The allure of the Pennsylvania Wilds, with its sprawling forests and abundant wildlife, beckons those seeking a slower pace of life. However, a critical factor often overlooked when considering a move, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension, is access to healthcare. This write-up explores the landscape of healthcare access in ZIP code 15821, focusing on transportation options and their impact on a hypothetical "Hypertension Score," a metric reflecting the ease with which residents can access necessary medical care.

The "Hypertension Score" considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. A higher score indicates greater ease of access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. For residents managing hypertension, timely and consistent access to medical care, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and specialist appointments, is crucial for maintaining optimal health and preventing complications.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation in Benezett is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The road network, while scenic, presents certain limitations. The main arteries connecting Benezett to surrounding areas are Pennsylvania Route 153 (PA-153) and Pennsylvania Route 555 (PA-555). These roads, while generally well-maintained, are often winding and can be subject to delays due to weather conditions, particularly during the winter months.

Driving to the nearest major healthcare facilities, such as Penn Highlands Elk in St. Marys, requires navigating PA-555 east. The drive, depending on traffic and weather, typically takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. This drive time is a significant factor in our "Hypertension Score." Longer drive times can translate to delays in seeking immediate medical attention during hypertensive crises, potentially increasing health risks.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further. The drive to UPMC Altoona, a regional medical center, involves a journey of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, primarily via PA-153 south to Interstate 80 (I-80) east, then onto US-22 west. This extended travel time significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score," potentially creating barriers to accessing specialized cardiology or nephrology services.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Benezett are extremely limited. The Elk County Council on the Arts and Transportation (ECAT) offers a demand-response service, providing transportation within Elk County. However, ECAT’s availability is subject to scheduling and may not be readily accessible for urgent medical needs. The service's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is essential for individuals with mobility limitations, but the overall limited scope of the service negatively impacts the "Hypertension Score."

The lack of a robust public transportation system underscores the dependence on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options. For individuals who are unable to drive due to health conditions or other limitations, the absence of reliable public transit presents a significant challenge to healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some areas, but their presence in Benezett is sporadic. Availability can be unreliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unpredictability poses a challenge for individuals requiring scheduled medical appointments or urgent care. The limited availability of ride-sharing services contributes to a lower "Hypertension Score."

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several regional providers serve the Benezett area, including Community Ambulance Service. These services are vital, especially for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation. However, the cost of NEMT services can be a barrier for some, impacting the "Hypertension Score."

**Impact on the "Hypertension Score":**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Hypertension Score" for residents of Benezett (ZIP code 15821) managing hypertension would likely be moderate. The relatively long drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited public transportation options, and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. While medical transport services offer a vital lifeline, their cost and scheduling requirements can be obstacles.

The "Hypertension Score" can be improved by several factors. Expanded public transportation services, including routes connecting Benezett to healthcare hubs, would significantly increase access. Increased availability of ride-sharing services, coupled with incentives for drivers to serve rural areas, would also be beneficial. Furthermore, initiatives to promote telemedicine and telehealth services could reduce the need for in-person visits, thereby lessening the burden of transportation.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape of Healthcare Access:**

Moving to Benezett offers the promise of a tranquil lifestyle. However, it is crucial for individuals managing hypertension to carefully consider the healthcare access landscape. Understanding the limitations of transportation options, including drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing availability, is essential.

While the "Hypertension Score" in Benezett may be moderate, proactive planning and resourcefulness can mitigate the challenges. Establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, exploring telemedicine options, and utilizing medical transport services when necessary are vital strategies. For those considering a move, a thorough assessment of their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is paramount. The beauty of Benezett can be enjoyed, but only with a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape and a proactive approach to accessing the care needed to maintain optimal health.