15863, Stump Creek, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15863, Stump Creek, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.70 percent of residents in 15863 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 Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 31.57 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Stump Creek, PA (ZIP Code 15863)

The quaint community of Stump Creek, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Clearfield County, presents a unique set of challenges when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 15863, evaluating its impact on the ability to reach essential medical services. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment, crucial for anyone considering moving to Stump Creek or currently residing there, especially those with hypertension or at risk.

The primary concern is the relatively rural nature of the area. This translates to longer travel times and limited options for transportation, significantly impacting healthcare access. The ability to quickly and reliably reach a medical professional is paramount for managing hypertension, a condition requiring regular monitoring and, often, immediate intervention. The availability of diverse and accessible transportation options becomes a critical factor in determining the 'Hypertension Score' for this locale.

Driving is, undoubtedly, the most common mode of transportation in Stump Creek. The primary thoroughfare connecting the community to larger towns and healthcare facilities is **Pennsylvania Route 219**. Traveling south on Route 219, residents can reach DuBois, a regional hub with a concentration of medical services. The drive to DuBois, approximately 15 miles, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Further healthcare options exist in Clearfield, accessible via **Interstate 80** and **Pennsylvania Route 879**. This journey, roughly 35 miles, can take 45 minutes to an hour.

The condition of these roads, especially during the harsh Pennsylvania winters, can significantly impact travel times and safety. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, potentially delaying or preventing access to appointments. The 'Hypertension Score' must consider these seasonal challenges, emphasizing the need for reliable transportation alternatives.

Public transportation options are limited in Stump Creek. The Clearfield County Area Transportation Authority (CCATA) provides bus services throughout the county, but the frequency and routes within ZIP code 15863 are sparse. The CCATA does offer demand-response services, requiring advance booking, which could be a viable option for those without access to a personal vehicle. However, the reliance on pre-arranged rides introduces an element of inflexibility, potentially hindering timely access to care.

The CCATA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating, making them accessible to individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited service area and infrequent schedules diminish the overall impact of public transportation on the 'Hypertension Score'.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the DuBois area, but their presence in Stump Creek is less certain. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which tends to be lower in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments would be unreliable, potentially leading to missed appointments and compromised health outcomes. This scarcity severely impacts the 'Hypertension Score'.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical transportation, are another consideration. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare often contract with insurance providers to offer transportation to medical appointments. The availability of these services in Stump Creek and their coverage by insurance plans is crucial. The 'Hypertension Score' must factor in the potential for subsidized or fully covered medical transport options.

The absence of readily available, reliable, and affordable transportation poses a significant challenge for individuals managing hypertension in Stump Creek. This lack of access can lead to delayed or missed appointments, medication non-adherence, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. The 'Hypertension Score' must reflect this reality.

The availability of local pharmacies is another critical factor. Access to prescription medications is vital for managing hypertension. The presence of pharmacies within Stump Creek or in nearby communities, coupled with convenient prescription refill and delivery options, can mitigate some of the transportation challenges.

Telehealth services, offering remote consultations with healthcare providers, can also play a role in improving healthcare access. The availability of reliable internet connectivity in Stump Creek is essential for utilizing telehealth effectively. This technology can reduce the need for in-person visits, especially for routine check-ups and medication management, thus improving the 'Hypertension Score'.

Moving to Stump Creek requires careful consideration of these transportation and healthcare access factors. Individuals with hypertension must assess their ability to reliably reach medical providers, pharmacies, and other essential healthcare services. The 'Hypertension Score' serves as a vital tool in this assessment.

The 'Hypertension Score' for Stump Creek, PA (ZIP code 15863) would, therefore, be influenced by the following: the drive times to medical facilities, the limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, the availability of medical transport services, the accessibility of pharmacies, and the reliability of internet connectivity for telehealth. The score would likely be lower than in more urban areas, reflecting the inherent transportation challenges.

Ultimately, the 'Hypertension Score' for Stump Creek is a nuanced assessment. It acknowledges the limitations of the existing transportation infrastructure while highlighting the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness. Individuals considering a move to Stump Creek, or those already residing there, must carefully evaluate their transportation options, explore available healthcare services, and develop a comprehensive plan for managing their hypertension. The key is to proactively address the transportation challenges, ensuring timely access to the care needed to maintain optimal health.