15923, Bolivar, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15923, Bolivar, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.32 percent of residents in 15923 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Excela Health Latrobe Hospital with a distance of 12.74 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Bolivar, PA (ZIP Code 15923)

The tranquility of Bolivar, Pennsylvania, nestled amidst the rolling hills of Westmoreland County, offers a compelling case for relocation. However, before packing your bags and embracing the bucolic charm, prospective residents, particularly those managing hypertension, must consider the crucial aspect of healthcare access. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of transportation options within ZIP code 15923, focusing on their impact on healthcare access and ultimately, contributing to a "Hypertension Score" for the area.

The score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical services, factoring in travel time, mode of transport, and the availability of specialized care. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. This assessment is particularly vital for individuals with hypertension, as timely and consistent access to medical appointments and medication refills is paramount for managing the condition and mitigating potential health complications.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Primary Arteries of Healthcare Access**

For residents of Bolivar, the automobile remains the dominant mode of transportation, dictating the primary routes to healthcare providers. The primary thoroughfare, **Pennsylvania Route 711**, serves as the vital link to nearby towns and cities. Traveling north on Route 711 leads to Blairsville, where residents can access the **UPMC Family Medicine at Blairsville** clinic, approximately a 15-20 minute drive. This clinic offers primary care services, crucial for regular check-ups and medication management for hypertension.

Heading south on Route 711, residents can reach **Johnstown** within a 45-60 minute drive, depending on traffic. This journey provides access to a broader range of healthcare options, including **Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center**, a comprehensive hospital offering specialized cardiology services, including the management of hypertension. The route utilizes **Route 22**, a major east-west highway, providing a faster connection to Johnstown.

The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact drive times. Winter snow and ice, prevalent in this region, can cause delays and necessitate caution, potentially hindering timely access to medical care. The distance to specialized care, such as cardiologists or endocrinologists, in Johnstown, highlights the importance of reliable transportation for those managing hypertension.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Accessibility**

Public transportation options within ZIP code 15923 are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The **Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA)** provides some service to the area, but routes and schedules are infrequent, making it a less viable option for routine healthcare appointments. Service frequency and route coverage are critical factors in determining the utility of public transit for healthcare access.

The CCTA buses may offer some routes that travel through Bolivar or near it, but the exact routes and schedules need to be confirmed. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score," particularly for those unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps, Addressing the Needs**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, offering a potential alternative for transportation to healthcare appointments. However, their availability in Bolivar itself may be limited, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could make them an expensive option. The reliability and cost-effectiveness of ride-share services directly influence the "Hypertension Score."

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide another avenue for healthcare access. Companies like **Medicaid Transportation Services** and **First Transit** offer non-emergency medical transportation in the region. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. However, availability and scheduling can be a constraint, and prior arrangements are typically required.

**The "Hypertension Score" in Context: Moving to Bolivar with Hypertension**

The "Hypertension Score" for Bolivar, PA (15923) is moderate. While the availability of primary care services in Blairsville offers a convenient option, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The distance to specialized care in Johnstown, coupled with the potential for weather-related delays, underscores the importance of reliable transportation.

For individuals considering moving to Bolivar while managing hypertension, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Factors to consider include access to a personal vehicle, the availability of family or friends for transportation, and the potential reliance on ride-share or medical transport services. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a tool to evaluate the accessibility of healthcare services, enabling informed decision-making and ensuring that individuals can maintain optimal health while enjoying the benefits of living in this charming Pennsylvania community.

The availability of specialized care in Johnstown, including cardiology services, is a positive factor. However, the distance and reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods necessitate careful planning and consideration. The "Hypertension Score" reflects the balance between the benefits of a rural lifestyle and the potential challenges of accessing healthcare.

In conclusion, while Bolivar offers a peaceful and appealing environment, prospective residents with hypertension must carefully evaluate their transportation options and plan for consistent access to medical care. The "Hypertension Score" is a dynamic measure, influenced by individual circumstances and the evolving landscape of transportation and healthcare access in the region.