15935, Hollsopple, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15935, Hollsopple, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.22 percent of residents in 15935 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 6.73 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hollsopple, PA (ZIP Code 15935)

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly managing conditions like hypertension, necessitates reliable access to healthcare. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 15935 (Hollsopple, Pennsylvania), evaluating its impact on healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension. We will consider drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, providing a comprehensive ‘Hypertension Score’ assessment for those considering moving to Hollsopple or seeking care within this area.

The ‘Hypertension Score’ is a subjective metric considering the ease and efficiency with which a resident can reach healthcare providers, pharmacies, and related services. Factors like distance, mode of transportation, and accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations are all considered. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

Hollsopple, a small community nestled in rural Pennsylvania, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The major roadways serving the area are Route 219, Route 56, and Route 403. These highways, while providing access to larger towns and cities, can be subject to weather-related delays, especially during winter months.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the Hypertension Score. The closest hospitals, like Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown (approximately 15-20 miles via Route 219), and UPMC Somerset (roughly 30-35 miles via Route 219 and Route 30), require a significant time commitment. Traffic, particularly during peak hours, can extend these travel times, potentially impacting a patient's ability to adhere to scheduled appointments or quickly access emergency care.

Smaller medical practices and pharmacies are located in nearby towns such as Johnstown, Windber, and Ebensburg. These facilities offer primary care, specialized medical services, and medication dispensing. However, the need to travel these distances, coupled with potential weather hazards, contributes to a lower Hypertension Score. The reliance on personal vehicles can be particularly challenging for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive.

Public transportation options in the Hollsopple area are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides some bus service within the county. However, service frequency and route coverage in the Hollsopple area are restricted. The CCTA does not have fixed routes that directly serve Hollsopple.

The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts the Hypertension Score. Individuals without access to a car are heavily reliant on others for transportation. This can lead to missed appointments, delays in obtaining medications, and reduced overall healthcare access. The absence of ADA-accessible public transportation further exacerbates these challenges for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, but their presence in Hollsopple is sporadic and unreliable. Availability depends on driver density, which is often lower in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing services contributes to a lower Hypertension Score, as it cannot be considered a dependable mode of transportation for healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. However, these services may have limited availability in the Hollsopple area. Furthermore, the cost of these services can be substantial, potentially creating financial barriers to healthcare access. The availability and affordability of medical transportation services are crucial factors in determining the Hypertension Score.

Pharmacies are essential for managing hypertension. Accessing a pharmacy to refill prescriptions is a recurring need for individuals managing this condition. Pharmacies are available in nearby towns, requiring transportation. The need to travel to obtain medications, especially for those with limited mobility or without access to a car, can pose a significant challenge. The distance to pharmacies and the availability of prescription delivery services influence the Hypertension Score.

The overall Hypertension Score for Hollsopple, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15935) is moderate. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the unpredictable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges. The long drive times to hospitals and specialized medical services also contribute to a lower score.

For individuals moving to Hollsopple or currently residing there and managing hypertension, careful consideration of transportation needs is crucial. Planning for medical appointments, including accounting for travel time and potential delays, is essential. Exploring options like carpooling, seeking assistance from family or friends, and utilizing medical transportation services where available can help improve healthcare access.

Individuals with mobility limitations or those without access to a personal vehicle face greater challenges in accessing healthcare in Hollsopple. They may need to rely on others for transportation, which can impact their ability to maintain consistent medical care.

The Hypertension Score is not static. It can be improved by advocating for increased public transportation options, promoting ride-sharing services, and supporting the expansion of medical transportation services in the area. Community initiatives that facilitate transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities can also significantly improve healthcare access.

In conclusion, while Hollsopple offers a peaceful and close-knit community, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The Hypertension Score reflects the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure consistent and timely access to healthcare. Those considering moving to Hollsopple should factor in these transportation considerations when assessing their healthcare needs. The future of healthcare access in Hollsopple hinges on addressing these transportation limitations and creating a more accessible and supportive environment for all residents.