15931, Ebensburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15931, Ebensburg, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.30 percent of residents in 15931 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Miners Medical Center with a distance of 11.45 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Ebensburg, PA (ZIP Code 15931)

The journey to managing hypertension, a silent threat to cardiovascular health, is significantly impacted by the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare. In Ebensburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15931), understanding the **transportation** landscape is paramount to assessing a resident's ability to proactively manage their condition. This analysis unveils a "Hypertension Score," a composite metric evaluating the accessibility of healthcare services, considering factors like drive times, public transit options, and alternative mobility solutions. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of **healthcare access** within the community, especially for those **moving to Ebensburg** or already residing there and seeking optimal health outcomes.

The foundation of our analysis rests on the primary arteries of Ebensburg. Route 22, a major east-west thoroughfare, serves as a critical link to healthcare facilities in Johnstown, approximately 15 miles away. Route 219, running north-south, offers another vital connection, though travel times can be subject to seasonal weather conditions and peak traffic. Local roads, including High Street and Main Street, provide crucial access within the borough, but their capacity is limited.

Driving times are the most immediate factor. A trip to UPMC Altoona Hospital, the nearest major medical center, typically takes around 45 minutes via Route 22. The drive to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, a regional hub, takes approximately 25-35 minutes, contingent on traffic. This time can be significantly extended during inclement weather, which is common in the region, potentially hindering timely access to medical care, especially in the event of a hypertensive crisis. These drive times form the core of our "Drive-Time Score," a component of the overall Hypertension Score.

Public **transportation** options in Ebensburg are limited but exist. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus services, though routes and schedules are restricted. Route 10, the primary route serving Ebensburg, offers connections to Johnstown and surrounding areas. The CCTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating, offering a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the frequency of service is limited, and the travel time to Johnstown can be considerably longer than driving, potentially impacting healthcare access for those with hypertension. This "Public Transit Score" assesses the availability and efficiency of these routes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, but their presence in Ebensburg is inconsistent. Availability is often dependent on driver availability, which can fluctuate. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity for those relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments. Medical transport services, such as MedStar and AMR, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments and emergencies. These services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing and are often reserved for individuals with specific medical needs. The "Alternative Mobility Score" evaluates the reliability and affordability of these options.

The "Hypertension Score" integrates these three sub-scores: Drive-Time Score, Public Transit Score, and Alternative Mobility Score. Each sub-score is weighted based on its impact on healthcare access. The Drive-Time Score holds the most weight, reflecting the reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. The Public Transit Score is weighted less heavily due to its limited reach and frequency. The Alternative Mobility Score receives moderate weighting, acknowledging the potential of ride-sharing and medical transport, while recognizing their limitations.

For someone **moving to Ebensburg**, the Hypertension Score provides critical insights. The score, calculated on a scale of 1 to 100 (with 100 representing optimal access), would be lower for those without reliable personal **transportation**. The score would improve for individuals living closer to major roads or with access to a vehicle. The score would be significantly impacted by the individual's ability to drive or access a vehicle.

The score's implications extend beyond individual health. Limited access to healthcare can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced adherence to medication regimens, and increased hospitalizations. These factors contribute to higher healthcare costs and a diminished quality of life. Understanding the **transportation** challenges is crucial for promoting preventative care and early intervention.

The Hypertension Score also highlights the need for community-based solutions. Expanding public **transportation** routes, increasing the frequency of service, and promoting ride-sharing initiatives could significantly improve **healthcare access**. Partnerships between healthcare providers and local **transportation** agencies could facilitate patient access to appointments and follow-up care.

Furthermore, the score underscores the importance of telehealth services. Telemedicine, where patients consult with doctors remotely, can reduce the need for travel, especially for routine check-ups and medication management. This is particularly relevant for individuals with hypertension, who require regular monitoring. The availability of telehealth services, along with the quality of internet access, is factored into the "Telehealth Access Score," a supplementary component that enhances the overall understanding of healthcare access.

The "Hypertension Score" for Ebensburg, PA, is not merely a numerical value; it is a call to action. It illuminates the intricate relationship between **transportation** and health outcomes. By understanding the challenges and opportunities within the community, residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers can work together to improve **healthcare access** and promote better health outcomes for all. This analysis is designed to provide a comprehensive picture of the community for individuals **moving to Ebensburg**, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The ultimate goal is to create a community where access to healthcare is not a barrier, but a pathway to a healthier future.