15936, Hooversville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15936, Hooversville, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.90 percent of residents in 15936 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chan Soon- Shiong Medical Center At Windber with a distance of 6.93 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hooversville (ZIP Code 15936)

The journey to managing hypertension, a silent threat to cardiovascular health, hinges on more than just medication and lifestyle changes. It requires reliable **transportation** to access crucial **healthcare access**, especially in rural communities like Hooversville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15936). This write-up assesses the challenges and opportunities facing residents of Hooversville in their quest for effective hypertension management, focusing on the practical realities of getting to appointments, picking up prescriptions, and participating in necessary follow-up care. For those **moving to Hooversville**, understanding these nuances is vital.

Hooversville, nestled in Somerset County, presents a unique set of circumstances. The town's relatively small population and rural character significantly influence the availability and accessibility of healthcare services. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in Johnstown, approximately 15 miles east. This distance, while seemingly manageable, becomes a significant barrier when considering the limitations of **transportation** options and the potential impact on individuals with hypertension.

The primary mode of **transportation** for most Hooversville residents is the personal vehicle. Driving to Johnstown typically involves navigating the winding roads of rural Pennsylvania. The most direct route is via Route 56 East, a two-lane highway that can experience heavy traffic during peak hours. Depending on traffic conditions, the drive can take anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes. This time commitment adds stress, a known contributor to elevated blood pressure, and can be particularly challenging for individuals experiencing hypertension-related symptoms like dizziness or fatigue.

Alternatively, residents might consider using Route 219 North, a limited-access highway that offers a faster, though slightly longer, route to Johnstown. This option, however, requires navigating a series of on-ramps and off-ramps, which can be daunting for some drivers, especially those with mobility issues or visual impairments. Local roads like Hooversville-Stoyestown Road and Glencoe Road provide alternative routes, but they are often narrower and less well-maintained, potentially increasing travel time and the risk of accidents.

Public **transportation** options in Hooversville are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus service in the Johnstown area, but its routes rarely extend into Hooversville. Even if a route were available, the frequency of service might be insufficient to meet the needs of individuals with hypertension who require frequent appointments. Furthermore, the CCTA's routes are not always fully accessible to individuals with disabilities, lacking sufficient ADA-compliant features on all buses and at all stops. This lack of accessible **transportation** significantly impacts the ability of some residents to access necessary **healthcare access**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, but their presence in Hooversville is less consistent. The availability of drivers and the associated costs can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty makes ride-sharing an unreliable option for scheduled medical appointments, especially for those managing a chronic condition like hypertension. The cost of ride-sharing, when available, can also place a financial strain on individuals with limited incomes, potentially deterring them from seeking necessary care.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with specific needs. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare provide non-emergency medical **transportation** to eligible individuals, often through contracts with insurance providers. These services typically offer door-to-door service, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. However, the availability of these services in Hooversville and the eligibility requirements can vary, and individuals may experience delays in scheduling or limited options for appointment times.

Pharmacies are another crucial element of **healthcare access** for individuals with hypertension. While Hooversville may have a local pharmacy, it is more likely that residents will need to travel to Johnstown to fill prescriptions. This necessitates careful planning and coordination, especially for those who rely on others for **transportation**. The potential for delays in obtaining medication can disrupt treatment plans and negatively impact blood pressure control.

The impact of limited **transportation** options extends beyond simply getting to appointments. It also affects access to preventative care, such as regular check-ups and screenings, which are essential for early detection and management of hypertension. Furthermore, it limits access to health education programs and support groups, which can provide valuable information and resources for managing the condition.

The lack of readily available **transportation** in Hooversville creates a complex web of challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The long drive times, limited public **transportation**, and inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to **healthcare access**. This situation can lead to delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and poorer health outcomes.

For those **moving to Hooversville**, careful consideration of these **transportation** challenges is essential. Prospective residents should assess their individual needs and resources, including their access to a personal vehicle, their ability to navigate local roads, and their financial capacity to utilize ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services. They should also investigate the availability of telehealth options, which can provide remote access to medical consultations and monitoring.

Ultimately, improving **healthcare access** for individuals with hypertension in Hooversville requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes advocating for increased public **transportation** options, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, and promoting the expansion of telehealth services. Furthermore, community-based programs that provide support and education about hypertension management are crucial. By addressing these challenges, the community can create a healthier environment for all residents, ensuring that those managing hypertension have the support and resources they need to thrive.