15851, Reynoldsville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15851, Reynoldsville, Pennsylvania is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.38 percent of residents in 15851 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 11.23 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Reynoldsville (ZIP Code 15851)

Moving to a new community, especially one with a rural character like Reynoldsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15851), requires careful consideration of essential services. One critical aspect is healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions such as hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the ease with which residents can access necessary medical care, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely appointments and medication refills.

Our analysis considers the unique challenges presented by the geography of Reynoldsville, a borough nestled in the heart of Jefferson County. The availability of transportation options significantly influences the ability to manage hypertension effectively. Regular check-ups, medication adherence, and prompt responses to health concerns are paramount for individuals with this condition.

The "Hypertension Score" will be a subjective assessment based on the following factors: drive times to healthcare facilities, public transportation availability, ride-sharing and medical transport options, and the overall accessibility of pharmacies and other essential services. We will then integrate this data to provide a nuanced understanding of healthcare access for those residing in or considering a move to Reynoldsville.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Road Ahead**

For many residents, driving remains the primary mode of transportation. Reynoldsville is relatively isolated, and the availability of public transportation is limited. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Pennsylvania Route 119 and Interstate 80.

The closest major healthcare facilities are located in DuBois, approximately 15 miles west of Reynoldsville. Driving to Penn Highlands DuBois, a prominent hospital, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route. The most direct route involves taking Route 119 West, which can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly around the commercial areas of DuBois.

Alternative routes might include utilizing local roads like Route 322 or Route 219, but these roads are often narrower and may add travel time. Furthermore, weather conditions in this region, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact drive times and road safety. Snow and ice can make travel hazardous, potentially delaying or canceling medical appointments.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further afield. Pittsburgh, approximately 100 miles southwest, offers a broader range of medical specialists and advanced treatments. This journey, primarily via I-80 West and I-376, can take between 2 and 2.5 hours, excluding potential traffic delays. This extended travel time poses a significant challenge for individuals with hypertension, especially during emergencies or when frequent follow-up appointments are required.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Reynoldsville are limited. The Jefferson County Transportation Authority (JCTA) provides some services, but its routes and schedules are often infrequent and may not align with the needs of individuals requiring regular medical appointments. Information regarding specific routes, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features is crucial for those relying on public transit.

The JCTA may offer limited routes to DuBois, but the frequency of service may not be sufficient for timely access to medical appointments. Furthermore, the absence of direct routes to specialized healthcare facilities in larger cities like Pittsburgh presents a significant barrier.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. The JCTA should provide detailed information about the accessibility features of its buses, including ramps, lifts, and designated seating. This information is essential for individuals with disabilities to plan their transportation effectively.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the DuBois area, but their availability in Reynoldsville itself may be limited. This can result in longer wait times and potentially higher fares, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and may be equipped to handle individuals with mobility limitations. Several medical transport brands operate in the region.

However, the cost of medical transportation can be a significant factor, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources. Understanding insurance coverage for medical transport services is crucial. Residents should investigate whether their health insurance plans cover these services and what out-of-pocket expenses they might incur.

**Pharmacy Access and Essential Services**

Access to pharmacies for medication refills is another crucial element of hypertension management. Reynoldsville has local pharmacies, providing convenient access to medications. However, the availability of 24-hour pharmacies or pharmacies with extended hours may be limited.

Access to other essential services, such as grocery stores and healthy food options, also plays a role in managing hypertension. A balanced diet is essential for controlling blood pressure. Residents should consider the proximity of grocery stores and the availability of fresh, healthy food choices when assessing their healthcare access.

**The "Hypertension Score" Conclusion**

Based on our assessment, the "Hypertension Score" for Reynoldsville (ZIP Code 15851) reflects a mixed picture. While the community offers local pharmacies and the convenience of driving to DuBois for basic healthcare needs, the limited public transportation options, potential ride-sharing challenges, and the distance to specialized medical facilities pose significant barriers for individuals managing hypertension.

Moving to Reynoldsville requires a thoughtful approach to healthcare access. Individuals should carefully consider their transportation needs, assess the availability of public transit or ride-sharing services, and explore the options for medical transportation. Understanding the potential travel times, especially during inclement weather, is crucial.

For those with hypertension, proactive planning is key. This includes establishing a relationship with a local healthcare provider, understanding the availability of medication refills, and developing a contingency plan for transportation in case of emergencies. While Reynoldsville offers a welcoming community, navigating the healthcare landscape requires careful consideration and proactive planning to ensure effective management of this chronic condition.