15849, Penfield, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15849, Penfield, Pennsylvania is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.36 percent of residents in 15849 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 15.74 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Penfield, PA (ZIP Code 15849)

The journey to healthcare, particularly when managing a condition like hypertension, is a complex equation. It involves more than just the availability of medical professionals; it encompasses the ease and reliability of transportation, impacting appointment adherence, medication refills, and overall well-being. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 15849 (Penfield, PA), focusing on its influence on healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension. Considering the nuances of transportation, we will assess the challenges and opportunities for those seeking to improve their health outcomes.

Penfield, nestled in Clearfield County, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. The rural nature of the area influences the availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and the overall infrastructure supporting healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, reliable and convenient transportation is paramount. Frequent medical appointments, often coupled with medication pick-ups, necessitate a dependable system to ensure continuity of care.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Drive Times**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The network of roads in and around Penfield plays a crucial role in determining healthcare access. Route 153, a significant artery, connects Penfield to nearby towns and healthcare facilities. The drive to Penn Highlands DuBois, a major healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes via Route 153 and Interstate 80. This drive time can fluctuate due to traffic, weather conditions, and the individual's familiarity with the route.

Other local roads, such as Shawville Highway and Tyler Road, provide alternative routes, although they may involve longer travel times and less direct access to major healthcare centers. For those residing in more remote areas of the ZIP code, the drive times could be significantly extended, potentially adding stress and logistical challenges to managing hypertension.

The condition of the roads is also a factor. While the primary highways are generally well-maintained, secondary roads may experience potholes or other issues, especially during winter months. This can impact the safety and comfort of travel, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those driving older vehicles.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Penfield are limited. Clearfield County operates a public transit system, but service frequency and route coverage may not adequately serve the needs of individuals requiring regular healthcare access. Information regarding specific route numbers, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features requires a direct inquiry with the Clearfield County Transit Authority.

The lack of robust public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not own vehicles, cannot drive, or prefer not to drive. This can disproportionately affect seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with lower incomes, potentially creating barriers to essential healthcare services. The lack of transportation can significantly impact the ability to maintain a consistent healthcare routine.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some areas of Clearfield County, but their presence in Penfield may be inconsistent. The availability of these services can be influenced by driver density, demand, and the time of day. Reliance on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments requires careful planning and consideration of potential delays or cancellations.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including but not limited to, those affiliated with healthcare systems and independent providers. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, availability and cost can vary, requiring research and pre-planning.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score**

The transportation landscape in Penfield directly impacts the "Hypertension Score" – a hypothetical measure of the ease with which individuals with hypertension can access and adhere to their healthcare needs. Factors like drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing options all contribute to this score. A low score indicates significant barriers to healthcare access, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes.

For individuals considering moving to Penfield, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. This includes evaluating the proximity to healthcare providers, the availability of reliable transportation, and the potential costs associated with accessing care. Understanding these factors can help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they can effectively manage their hypertension.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access in Penfield requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transit services, including expanding route coverage and increasing service frequency, would benefit a wide range of residents. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Promoting awareness of medical transportation services and assisting individuals in accessing these resources is crucial. Furthermore, community initiatives aimed at providing transportation assistance to those in need can help bridge the gaps in existing services.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Transportation for Health**

The transportation infrastructure in Penfield, PA, presents both challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension. While personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation, the limited availability of public transit and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and proactive measures.

By understanding the transportation landscape and advocating for improvements, residents of Penfield can enhance their healthcare access and improve their ability to manage hypertension effectively. Prioritizing transportation is not just about getting to appointments; it's about ensuring the health and well-being of the community.