15944, New Florence, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15944, New Florence, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.82 percent of residents in 15944 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 11.20 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in New Florence, PA (ZIP Code 15944)

The picturesque borough of New Florence, nestled in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, presents a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, the ability to consistently and reliably reach medical appointments is paramount. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" analysis, explores the complexities of **transportation** options available to residents of ZIP code 15944, focusing on **healthcare access** and its implications for those considering **moving to New Florence**.

The core of our analysis revolves around the practicalities of getting to and from medical appointments. A critical factor is the drive time to facilities offering comprehensive hypertension management, including primary care physicians, cardiologists, and pharmacies. We will examine the available **transportation** options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical **transportation**, to assess the overall accessibility landscape.

The primary artery for vehicular travel in and out of New Florence is the historic **Route 271**, a two-lane road that winds its way through the town and connects it to larger population centers. Heading east, Route 271 leads to Johnstown, the nearest city offering a full spectrum of medical services. The drive to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, typically takes between 25 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Another important route is **U.S. Route 22**, a major highway that intersects with Route 271 a few miles east of New Florence. Traveling west on Route 22 provides access to Ebensburg, the county seat of Cambria County, and the UPMC Altoona Hospital, which is approximately an hour's drive away. The speed and efficiency of these routes are crucial for timely medical care, especially during emergencies or for regular check-ups required for hypertension management.

Public **transportation** options within ZIP code 15944 are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus service in the region, but its routes and schedules may not be ideally suited for frequent medical appointments. The CCTA operates Route 10, which travels between Johnstown and Ebensburg. While this route passes through New Florence, it may require transfers and have limited service frequency, potentially adding considerable time to a commute to a medical facility. The CCTA does offer some ADA-accessible buses, but the availability of these vehicles and their routes should be confirmed prior to relying on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area. However, their presence in New Florence is less consistent. The availability of drivers and the cost of rides can vary significantly, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments requires careful planning and budgeting.

For individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance, medical **transportation** services offer a valuable alternative. Several companies, such as First Transit and TransCare, provide non-emergency medical **transportation** to and from medical appointments. These services typically offer door-to-door service and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. However, they often require advance booking and may have associated costs, which should be considered.

The availability of pharmacies is another critical aspect of **healthcare access**. New Florence has at least one local pharmacy, but the proximity of other pharmacies in Johnstown and Ebensburg is important for those seeking specialized medications or a wider selection of healthcare products. The drive times to these pharmacies are similar to those for medical appointments, making **transportation** a key factor in medication adherence.

The **Hypertension Score** for New Florence, PA (15944) is influenced by several factors. The primary challenge is the relative isolation of the borough and its reliance on personal vehicles for **transportation**. While the drive times to Johnstown and Ebensburg are manageable, they can become problematic for individuals with limited mobility, those without access to a car, or those who are unable to drive due to their medical condition.

The limited public **transportation** options further exacerbate the issue. The CCTA bus service, while available, may not be convenient or reliable for frequent medical appointments. The variability of ride-sharing services and the cost of medical **transportation** also contribute to the complexity of **healthcare access**.

For individuals **moving to New Florence** with hypertension, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is essential. They should consider their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends who can provide rides, and the feasibility of using public transit or ride-sharing services. Enrolling in medical **transportation** services may be a prudent option for those who require assistance.

The **Hypertension Score** for New Florence is also affected by the availability of local healthcare providers. While the borough has a primary care physician, access to specialists, such as cardiologists, may require travel to Johnstown or Ebensburg. This necessitates careful planning and coordination of appointments to minimize travel time and ensure timely access to medical care.

The overall **healthcare access** landscape in New Florence is a balancing act. While the drive times to major medical centers are reasonable, the limited public **transportation** options and the potential reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** provides alternative solutions, but these services may come with added costs and require careful planning.

The **Hypertension Score** is therefore a reflection of the need for careful consideration of **transportation** options and the potential impact on **healthcare access**. For those considering **moving to New Florence**, understanding these factors is crucial to ensuring they can effectively manage their hypertension and maintain their overall health.

In conclusion, the **Hypertension Score** for New Florence, PA (15944) highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness. Residents with hypertension must carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs and explore all available options to ensure they can consistently and reliably access the medical care they require. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape effectively is key to maintaining good health and well-being in this charming but geographically isolated community.