15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.67 percent of residents in 15937 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 7.77 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Jerome, PA (ZIP Code 15937)

The quiet borough of Jerome, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 15937, presents a unique challenge for residents managing hypertension. This condition, characterized by elevated blood pressure, necessitates regular medical attention and medication adherence. But how easy is it to access that care? This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for those living, or *moving to Jerome*. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, painting a comprehensive picture of the journey to healthcare.

The foundation of healthcare access in Jerome rests on the ability to traverse the local road network. Primary arteries include Pennsylvania Route 56, a vital east-west connector, and US Route 219, running north-south. These roadways are the lifeblood of the community, but their efficiency in facilitating healthcare access is contingent upon distance and traffic flow. For residents of Jerome, a trip to the nearest major healthcare providers, like UPMC Somerset or Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, is often the destination.

The drive to UPMC Somerset, located approximately 20 miles southwest, typically takes around 30-40 minutes under normal traffic conditions. The journey primarily involves utilizing PA-56 West to US-219 South. However, during peak hours, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, traffic congestion can add significantly to the travel time. This is a critical consideration for individuals with hypertension, as delays can impact medication schedules and appointment adherence.

Alternatively, a trip to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, approximately 15 miles northeast, usually takes about 25-35 minutes. The route primarily involves PA-56 East. Again, traffic can be a factor, especially around Johnstown's city limits. The availability of parking at both hospitals is also a factor, with potential delays during peak hours.

Public transportation options in Jerome are limited, which is a significant factor in assessing healthcare access. The Johnstown-based transportation authority, the Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA), offers some routes that may serve the area. However, direct routes to major healthcare facilities from Jerome are unlikely. This means that any public transit journey would likely involve multiple transfers and extended travel times.

The CCTA's routes, such as the 100 series, might provide a connection to Johnstown, but the frequency of these routes is generally low, and the travel time can be substantial. The CCTA does provide ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access public transit. However, the limited reach and potential for long travel times significantly impact the Hypertension Score, especially for those with mobility issues.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, but their availability in Jerome may be inconsistent. The presence of ride-sharing services is a positive factor, offering a potential alternative to driving or public transit. However, the cost and reliability of these services can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes. The availability of ride-sharing is also heavily dependent on driver availability, which can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, provide another option. Companies such as MedTrans or other regional providers may offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve scheduled rides to and from medical appointments. While this is a valuable option, it often requires advance booking and can be more expensive than other modes of transportation. The availability of these services and their coverage area within Jerome needs to be assessed.

Considering all the factors, the Hypertension Score for Jerome, PA (15937) would be moderately challenging. While the road network offers relatively direct access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles creates a barrier for those without access to a car or the ability to drive. The limited public transit options and the potential inconsistency of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation.

For individuals *moving to Jerome*, the transportation landscape must be carefully considered. Those with hypertension should factor in the drive times to their healthcare providers, the potential for traffic delays, and the availability of alternative transportation options. They should also explore the possibility of establishing relationships with healthcare providers closer to their home, to minimize travel distances.

The overall assessment suggests that improving healthcare access in Jerome requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes exploring opportunities to enhance public transit options, promoting ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of medical transportation services. Further, community outreach programs that address the importance of medication adherence and regular medical check-ups are crucial.

The Hypertension Score in Jerome is not insurmountable. However, it does require careful planning and proactive measures to ensure that residents can effectively manage their health. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is directly linked to the ability to access the care needed to live a healthy life.