15845, Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15845, Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.47 percent of residents in 15845 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 7.14 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Johnsonburg, PA (ZIP Code 15845)

The quiet borough of Johnsonburg, nestled in the heart of Elk County, Pennsylvania, offers a serene lifestyle. However, for residents managing hypertension, the journey to healthcare access can be a significant factor in their overall well-being. This write-up explores the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 15845, evaluating its impact on individuals with hypertension, ultimately providing a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing necessary medical care.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, demands consistent monitoring and medication management. Regular check-ups, timely refills, and prompt responses to emergencies are crucial. The availability and accessibility of transportation become paramount in ensuring these needs are met. This analysis considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view for residents, especially those considering moving to Johnsonburg.

The primary artery for vehicular travel in and out of Johnsonburg is Pennsylvania Route 219. This major highway provides a direct route north towards Kane and south towards DuBois. Driving times to healthcare facilities are largely determined by the location of the chosen provider. The closest primary care physicians and specialists are generally located within Johnsonburg itself or in neighboring towns like Ridgway. Travel times to these locations are typically manageable, averaging 5 to 15 minutes, assuming favorable traffic conditions.

However, for specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, residents may need to travel further afield. DuBois Regional Medical Center, approximately a 30-minute drive south on Route 219, offers a broader range of services. The drive, though relatively short, can be impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months. Similarly, Penn Highlands Elk, located in St. Marys, is roughly a 25-minute drive via Route 219 and PA-120. These longer drives necessitate careful planning and consideration for individuals with hypertension, particularly if they experience complications or require frequent appointments.

Public transportation options in Johnsonburg are limited. The Elk County Council on the Arts and Transportation (ECAT) provides demand-response transportation services within the county. While this service can be a lifeline for those without personal vehicles, it requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. ECAT offers ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. The availability and scheduling constraints of ECAT, however, can contribute to a higher "Hypertension Score," reflecting the potential challenges in accessing timely care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Johnsonburg. The lack of these services presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This absence further compounds the transportation challenges, especially for those with hypertension who may require immediate medical attention or find it difficult to drive themselves.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services, are available in the event of an emergency. However, these services are primarily for critical situations and are not a viable option for routine appointments or medication pick-ups. The reliance on ambulance services for non-emergency situations can be costly and may not be covered by all insurance plans.

The "Hypertension Score" for Johnsonburg, ZIP code 15845, is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While local healthcare providers are within reasonable driving distances, the lack of readily available public transportation, ride-sharing services, and the reliance on demand-response services, especially for those without personal vehicles, contributes to a higher score. The longer drive times to specialized care facilities and the potential for weather-related delays further exacerbate these challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Johnsonburg and managing hypertension, careful consideration of these transportation factors is essential. The availability of a personal vehicle is highly advantageous. Those reliant on public transportation or ride-sharing should factor in longer travel times and potential scheduling difficulties when planning their healthcare appointments.

The lack of readily available transportation options can lead to delayed care, increased stress, and potential complications for individuals with hypertension. This can also impact medication adherence, as accessing pharmacies for refills may become more challenging. The distance to specialized care providers can also result in increased fatigue and anxiety, further impacting the overall health of individuals with hypertension.

The availability of support networks, such as family members or friends who can provide transportation assistance, can significantly improve healthcare access. However, this support is not always available, and relying solely on others can be unreliable.

The community could benefit from exploring initiatives to improve transportation options for residents with hypertension. This could include advocating for expanded ECAT services, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies, or establishing a volunteer driver program. These efforts would contribute to a lower "Hypertension Score" and improve the overall health and well-being of the community.

In conclusion, while Johnsonburg offers a peaceful environment, the transportation landscape presents challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation options. For those considering moving to Johnsonburg, evaluating their transportation needs and resources is crucial for ensuring timely and accessible healthcare access. The local government and community organizations should prioritize initiatives to improve transportation infrastructure and services, ultimately fostering a healthier community for all residents. This proactive approach to addressing transportation barriers will not only improve healthcare access but also enhance the overall quality of life for those managing hypertension in Johnsonburg.