15928, Davidsville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15928, Davidsville, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.92 percent of residents in 15928 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chan Soon- Shiong Medical Center At Windber with a distance of 4.70 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15928 (Davidsville)

The journey to healthcare in Davidsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15928) is a complex equation, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, analyzes the accessibility of medical resources, specifically focusing on transportation options, to determine the ease with which residents can receive necessary care. We’ll explore the challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure, considering the unique needs of those living with high blood pressure.

Davidsville, a small community nestled within the larger Johnstown metropolitan area, presents a landscape shaped by rurality. This geographic reality significantly impacts transportation choices, directly influencing healthcare access. The ability to consistently and efficiently reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and diagnostic facilities is crucial for effective hypertension management.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Primary Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Davidsville is the personal vehicle. The road network, while functional, presents certain limitations. The main artery, **US Route 219**, provides the most direct route to Johnstown, the regional hub for specialized medical care. Driving times, however, can vary significantly depending on traffic and weather conditions. A typical drive to the major hospitals in Johnstown, like Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center or UPMC, can range from 20 to 45 minutes, assuming clear roads.

Access to smaller, local healthcare providers may be easier. Traveling on **PA Route 56** offers access to family practices and clinics within the immediate vicinity. Expect travel times to these destinations to be considerably shorter, typically under 15 minutes.

The condition of the roads themselves is a factor. While generally well-maintained, winter weather, prevalent in this region, can create hazardous driving conditions, potentially delaying or even preventing access to care. The secondary roads, such as **Davidsville Road** and **Shanksville Road**, are often narrower and more susceptible to ice and snow, further complicating transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Davidsville are limited, presenting a significant hurdle for individuals without personal vehicles. The **Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA)** provides some service, but the routes are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting Johnstown to surrounding communities.

While the CCTA does offer some routes that pass through or near Davidsville, their schedules are often not conducive to regular medical appointments. The service frequency might be hourly or even less frequent, requiring significant waiting times. Furthermore, the routes may not directly serve medical facilities, necessitating transfers or additional walking.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. The CCTA is required to provide accessible vehicles, but the overall limitations of the system, including the infrequent service and potentially long travel times, can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, but their presence in Davidsville is less consistent. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore not always feasible, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transit. Companies like **Medical Transportation of America** or **Care Ride** provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services are often covered by insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare, for eligible individuals. However, pre-booking is usually required, and the availability of these services can also be impacted by demand and geographic limitations.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score**

The "Hypertension Score" for Davidsville (15928) reflects the combined impact of these transportation factors on healthcare access. The score is not a single number but a nuanced assessment of the challenges and opportunities.

The score would be negatively impacted by the limited public transportation options, the potential for long drive times to specialized care in Johnstown, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services. The positive aspects include the presence of local clinics and the availability of medical transportation services.

For individuals managing hypertension, consistent access to medical care is paramount. This includes regular check-ups, medication refills, and the ability to quickly seek medical attention if complications arise. The transportation challenges in Davidsville can create barriers to this access, potentially impacting health outcomes.

**Moving to Davidsville: Considerations for Hypertension Management**

Individuals considering moving to Davidsville, particularly those managing hypertension, should carefully evaluate the transportation landscape. They should assess their ability to drive, consider the availability of family or friends who can provide transportation, and explore the options for medical transportation services.

Proximity to local clinics and pharmacies is crucial. Living within walking distance or a short drive of these facilities can significantly improve healthcare access.

Furthermore, potential residents should familiarize themselves with the CCTA routes and schedules, even if they primarily rely on other transportation methods. Having a backup plan is essential.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Accessibility**

The "Hypertension Score" for Davidsville highlights the need for improved transportation infrastructure and services to support healthcare access. This could include advocating for increased CCTA service frequency and route expansion, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring the affordability and accessibility of medical transportation options.

By addressing these transportation challenges, Davidsville can create a healthier environment for all its residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The goal is to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive the timely and consistent care they need to live long and healthy lives.