15905, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15905, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.00 percent of residents in 15905 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 1.41 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Johnstown, PA (ZIP Code 15905)**

Considering a move to Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and concerned about managing hypertension? This analysis delves into the accessibility of healthcare within ZIP code 15905, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely medical care. Understanding these factors is crucial for individuals managing hypertension, as consistent access to appointments, medication refills, and potential emergency services is paramount. This assessment provides a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare providers.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is transportation. For residents of 15905, the primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments is likely by personal vehicle. The area is served by several major roadways. Route 219, a significant north-south artery, provides relatively quick access to hospitals and specialist offices. Route 56, another crucial route, connects to various medical facilities, including those located in surrounding townships. The Johnstown Expressway, also known as Route 756, offers a more direct route to some medical centers, especially those located closer to the city's central areas.

Drive times are a critical component of the Hypertension Score. A short drive to a healthcare provider minimizes delays in receiving care. From the heart of 15905, a drive to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, a major regional hospital, can range from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Accessing Windber Hospital, located slightly further away, might take 20 to 30 minutes, again influenced by traffic and the specific location within the ZIP code. Specialist offices and outpatient clinics located in the city center are generally accessible within 10 to 20 minutes.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its availability and efficiency are key considerations. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus services throughout Johnstown and the surrounding areas. Several CCTA routes serve 15905, with routes 1, 2, 3, and 4 being particularly relevant for accessing healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes can be limited, especially during evenings and weekends. The CCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring individuals with disabilities can utilize the service.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Johnstown. However, their availability can fluctuate, and wait times may be longer compared to larger metropolitan areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility challenges, are another option. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, ensuring a more comfortable and convenient experience. Local providers like "Johnstown Medical Transportation" and similar companies offer specialized transport, but availability should be confirmed in advance.

Evaluating the Hypertension Score requires a nuanced understanding of the interplay between transportation options, drive times, and healthcare facility locations. The proximity of hospitals, specialist offices, and pharmacies within 15905 and the surrounding areas is a positive factor. The availability of multiple transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, enhances accessibility. However, the limitations of public transit, the potential variability of ride-sharing availability, and the need to pre-arrange medical transport services can pose challenges.

For individuals with hypertension, consistent access to healthcare is non-negotiable. This means the ability to reach a doctor's office, pharmacy, or emergency room without undue delay or difficulty. The Hypertension Score for 15905 reflects this reality. The score is influenced by the area's reliance on personal vehicles and the potential limitations of public transit. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers added flexibility, but their reliability and cost must be considered.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for 15905, considering all these factors, is moderately favorable. Residents generally have access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable timeframe, particularly if they have access to a personal vehicle. However, individuals relying on public transit or ride-sharing may face greater challenges, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergency situations.

To improve the Hypertension Score, several factors could be considered. Increased frequency and expanded route coverage of the CCTA bus system would enhance accessibility. Promoting and expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, particularly for medical appointments, would provide a valuable alternative. Educating residents about available medical transportation services and assisting them in accessing these resources would be beneficial.

For individuals considering moving to Johnstown and managing hypertension, proactive planning is essential. Researching the locations of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and emergency services within 15905 and the surrounding areas is the first step. Understanding the available transportation options and their limitations is crucial. Establishing a reliable transportation plan for regular appointments and potential emergencies is paramount.

The decision to move to Johnstown, PA, is a significant one. The availability of healthcare access is a critical consideration, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the transportation landscape within 15905 and its impact on healthcare access. By considering the factors outlined in this "Hypertension Score," individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and their ability to receive timely and effective medical care in their new community. Careful planning and proactive management are key to ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life in Johnstown.