15906, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15906, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.12 percent of residents in 15906 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 3.24 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Johnstown, PA (ZIP Code 15906)

The journey to healthcare in Johnstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15906), presents a complex landscape for individuals managing hypertension. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" write-up, explores the challenges and opportunities of transportation options, ultimately influencing healthcare access for residents. Considering the critical need for consistent medical attention, this assessment delves into the realities of moving to Johnstown, particularly for those with chronic conditions.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is reliable transportation. In Johnstown, a city nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, this means navigating the region's unique geography. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are the highways: the **Johnstown Expressway (Route 219)**, the **Route 56 Expressway**, and **Route 271**. These roadways offer varying degrees of accessibility, impacting drive times to medical facilities.

Drive times are heavily influenced by traffic, weather, and the specific location within the ZIP code. For example, a resident in the Kernville neighborhood might face a significantly shorter drive to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center compared to someone living in the Moxham area. The **Johnstown Expressway (Route 219)** provides a more direct route to the hospital from the north, while **Route 56** offers access from the east and west. **Route 271** serves as a connecting road, but can be subject to delays.

The average drive time to the major healthcare providers, including Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center and UPMC Primary Care, can range from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the origin point within 15906 and traffic conditions. Rush hour, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend these times. This delay could be detrimental for individuals needing immediate attention or regular appointments for hypertension management.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its availability is limited. The **Johnstown Transportation Authority (JTA)** provides bus services throughout the city. The routes are numbered, but the frequency and coverage can be challenging, especially for those residing in more remote areas of the ZIP code. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial factor. The JTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the wait times and potential transfers between routes can pose difficulties for patients with hypertension, particularly those with mobility limitations.

The JTA routes generally operate on a schedule, with limited service on evenings and weekends. This schedule might not align with the appointment times of healthcare providers, potentially creating a barrier to timely medical care. Residents relying on public transportation must meticulously plan their trips, factoring in travel time, potential delays, and the need for transfers.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Johnstown, offering a more flexible transportation option. However, their availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for individuals with limited incomes. This financial burden could further impact healthcare access, forcing patients to choose between essential medical care and other necessities.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer another layer of support. These services, often provided by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation, can provide door-to-door service, assisting with mobility and ensuring patients arrive at their appointments safely. Investigating the availability and cost of these services is crucial for individuals with hypertension. These services can be a lifeline, especially for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options.

The decision of moving to Johnstown requires careful consideration, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions like hypertension. The availability and reliability of transportation directly impact healthcare access. Before relocating, prospective residents should thoroughly research the transportation options available in their desired neighborhood within the 15906 ZIP code.

Consider the proximity to healthcare providers, the frequency of public transit routes, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation. Evaluating these factors will help individuals create a realistic plan for managing their healthcare needs.

The **Johnstown Expressway (Route 219)**, **Route 56**, and **Route 271** are essential for vehicular travel, but traffic conditions can create delays. The JTA offers public transit, but route frequency and ADA features must be assessed. Ride-sharing provides flexibility, but availability and cost are variables. Medical transportation services offer specialized support.

The "Hypertension Score" reflects the challenges and opportunities of navigating healthcare access in Johnstown. Residents and prospective residents must proactively assess their transportation needs and develop strategies to ensure consistent and timely medical care. This includes understanding the limitations of public transportation, the potential costs of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transportation services.

For those managing hypertension, a well-defined transportation plan is critical for maintaining good health. This plan must consider the specific needs of the individual, their location within the ZIP code, and the available resources. By carefully evaluating the transportation landscape, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they receive the care they need.

The "Hypertension Score" underscores the importance of proactive planning. It is not merely about the availability of transportation; it is about the ability to utilize it effectively and affordably. This requires research, planning, and a willingness to adapt to the unique challenges of the Johnstown environment. The journey to healthcare is a critical one, and the right transportation strategy is the key to successful navigation.