15904, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15904, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.34 percent of residents in 15904 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 3.15 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Johnstown (ZIP Code 15904)

Johnstown, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of the Laurel Highlands, presents a unique landscape for residents, particularly those managing hypertension. Evaluating healthcare access within ZIP code 15904 necessitates a deep dive into the available transportation options, crucial for timely medical appointments and medication refills. This "Hypertension Score" assesses the ease of navigating the healthcare system, considering the specific challenges of this geographic area.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension is consistent access to care. Regular check-ups, medication adherence, and prompt responses to health changes are paramount. The transportation infrastructure directly impacts these needs, making it a critical factor in the overall health and well-being of residents.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

For those who prefer driving, the landscape of Johnstown dictates travel. Major thoroughfares like the **Johnstown Expressway (Route 219)** and **U.S. Route 22** are essential arteries. The Expressway, while offering faster travel, can experience congestion during peak hours. Route 22, running east-west, connects Johnstown to surrounding communities and offers access to larger medical facilities further afield.

Smaller roads, such as **Scalp Avenue**, **Central Avenue**, and **Moxham Avenue**, provide access to local clinics and pharmacies. However, these roads often have more traffic lights and slower speed limits, extending travel times. Drive times to healthcare providers within the city limits, including the **UPMC Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber**, can range from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the location and traffic conditions. Travel to facilities outside Johnstown, like those in Ebensburg or Indiana, could extend to 30-60 minutes, potentially impacting the feasibility of regular appointments.

**Public Transportation:**

The **Johnstown Transit Authority (JTA)** provides public transportation services within the city and surrounding areas. Several bus routes serve the 15904 ZIP code, including routes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. These routes connect residential areas to medical facilities, pharmacies, and grocery stores. However, the frequency of these routes can be limited, especially during evenings and weekends.

The JTA strives to provide accessible transportation, with buses equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA-compliant features. This is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, a common concern among those managing hypertension. However, the fixed-route nature of the public transit system may not always provide door-to-door service, potentially requiring additional walking or transfers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in Johnstown. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing flexibility and convenience, especially for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those on fixed incomes.

Medical transportation services, like **Care Ride** and **First Transit**, are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service and specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility needs. They may also accept insurance coverage, making them a more affordable option for some patients. However, these services typically require advance booking, which necessitates planning ahead.

**Assessing the Hypertension Score:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 15904 considers the accessibility, affordability, and reliability of all transportation options. This score evaluates the ease with which individuals with hypertension can access healthcare services, considering factors like:

* **Proximity to Healthcare Providers:** The distance to primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and hospitals.
* **Drive Times:** The time required to travel to healthcare facilities, considering traffic conditions and road quality.
* **Public Transportation Availability:** The frequency, routes, and accessibility of JTA buses.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Options:** The availability, cost, and reliability of Uber, Lyft, and specialized medical transport services.
* **Cost of Transportation:** The financial burden associated with driving, public transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transport.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of accessible transportation options for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Implications for Residents and Prospective Movers:**

For current residents of 15904 managing hypertension, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for proactive healthcare management. Planning appointments in advance, utilizing public transportation when feasible, and exploring ride-sharing or medical transport options can improve access to care.

For individuals considering moving to Johnstown, particularly those with hypertension, the transportation infrastructure should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. Proximity to healthcare providers, the availability of public transportation, and the reliability of ride-sharing services should be carefully evaluated. The "Hypertension Score" can serve as a valuable tool in this assessment, helping prospective movers make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare system in Johnstown (15904) requires careful consideration of transportation options. While the city offers a mix of driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, each option presents unique challenges and benefits. The "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for assessing the ease of healthcare access, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. By understanding the transportation landscape, individuals with hypertension can proactively manage their health, ensuring timely access to care and a higher quality of life. Moving to Johnstown, or any community, demands thoughtful consideration of how transportation aligns with healthcare needs, especially for those managing chronic conditions.