15846, Kersey, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15846, Kersey, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.96 percent of residents in 15846 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 4.99 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kersey, PA (ZIP Code 15846)

The decision to relocate, particularly to a new community like Kersey, Pennsylvania, necessitates a thorough evaluation of essential services, including healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, this assessment becomes even more critical. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" analysis for ZIP Code 15846, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities, acknowledging the challenges and opportunities inherent in this rural setting. Understanding the realities of transportation is paramount for effective hypertension management, ensuring timely access to medication, monitoring, and specialist care.

Kersey, nestled in Elk County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The rural nature of the area, while offering tranquility, often translates to longer travel times and fewer transportation options compared to urban environments. The "Hypertension Score" considers these factors, providing a realistic picture of the transportation landscape for individuals with hypertension considering moving to Kersey or already residing there.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

The primary healthcare providers serving Kersey residents are located in nearby towns and cities. The most direct route to a primary care physician or specialist often involves navigating the roadways. From Kersey, the drive to Penn Highlands Elk, the primary hospital, in St. Marys, PA, typically takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes via Pennsylvania Route 255. This route is generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to DuBois Regional Medical Center in DuBois, PA, a drive of approximately 30 to 40 minutes. This journey usually involves taking Pennsylvania Route 255 south and connecting to Interstate 80. Interstate 80, while a major highway, can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. The drive to UPMC Altoona, for more specialized care, is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes via I-80 East and US-22 West.

The reliability of personal transportation is crucial. The "Hypertension Score" considers the potential for vehicle breakdowns, which could severely disrupt access to appointments and medication refills. Regular vehicle maintenance is therefore a critical component of managing hypertension in this context.

**Public Transportation Realities:**

Public transportation options in Kersey and the surrounding areas are limited. The Elk County Council on the Arts operates a public transit system, but its routes and schedules are primarily designed to serve the needs of the general public, not specifically catering to medical appointments. Riders should be aware that the transit system may not offer door-to-door service, necessitating additional walking or the use of other transportation methods.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility limitations. The Elk County Council on the Arts strives to offer ADA-compliant services, but availability may be limited, requiring advance booking and careful planning. Furthermore, the frequency of service, especially on weekends and evenings, may be restricted, further complicating access to healthcare. The "Hypertension Score" acknowledges the challenges posed by the limited public transportation infrastructure.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not consistently available in Kersey and the surrounding rural areas. While availability might vary, relying on these services for regular medical appointments is generally not advisable. The "Hypertension Score" reflects this reality, emphasizing the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, offer a more reliable option for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. These services typically require advance booking and may involve higher costs. However, they provide door-to-door service and are specifically designed to transport patients to medical appointments. The "Hypertension Score" recognizes the value of medical transportation services, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or have difficulty using public transportation.

**Navigating the Healthcare Landscape:**

Individuals with hypertension in Kersey need to proactively plan for their healthcare transportation needs. This includes establishing a reliable transportation network, whether it involves personal vehicles, family members, friends, or medical transportation services.

The "Hypertension Score" emphasizes the importance of scheduling appointments strategically, considering travel times and potential delays. Utilizing telehealth options for routine check-ups and medication management can also mitigate the challenges of transportation.

Furthermore, it is crucial to establish a strong relationship with healthcare providers. Open communication with physicians and nurses can help identify potential transportation barriers and develop strategies to overcome them. This collaborative approach is essential for ensuring consistent access to care.

**Considering the Move to Kersey:**

For individuals with hypertension considering moving to Kersey, a careful assessment of the transportation landscape is essential. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the need to prioritize access to healthcare facilities when selecting a residence. Proximity to healthcare providers, or at least easy access to major roadways, should be a key consideration.

The "Hypertension Score" also underscores the importance of understanding the local transportation options and the availability of support services. Researching medical transportation providers, exploring the public transit system, and identifying potential ride-sharing availability are all critical steps in ensuring a smooth transition.

**Conclusion:**

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 15846 provides a realistic assessment of the transportation challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension in Kersey, Pennsylvania. While the rural setting presents unique challenges, proactive planning, utilizing available resources, and building strong relationships with healthcare providers can mitigate these difficulties. By understanding the transportation landscape and taking appropriate measures, individuals with hypertension can successfully navigate the healthcare system in Kersey and maintain their health and well-being. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for making informed decisions about healthcare access and ensuring a healthy future in this welcoming community.