15948, Revloc, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15948, Revloc, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.93 percent of residents in 15948 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Miners Medical Center with a distance of 12.15 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Revloc (ZIP Code 15948)

Revloc, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Cambria County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 15948, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering the practicalities of getting to necessary medical appointments. The score will reflect the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transportation services. Understanding these elements is crucial for residents, especially those considering moving to Revloc, to proactively manage their health.

The foundation of healthcare access in Revloc rests on the availability of transportation. The ability to consistently and reliably reach medical appointments is a critical factor in controlling hypertension. This requires a deep understanding of the local transportation options, their limitations, and how they impact the daily lives of residents. The "Hypertension Score" will serve as a practical guide, offering a realistic appraisal of the challenges and potential solutions.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Revloc, as in most rural areas, is the personal vehicle. The speed and efficiency of this method are determined by the local road network. The main arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are the Pennsylvania Route 271 (PA-271) and U.S. Route 219 (US-219). PA-271 acts as the primary connector, weaving through Revloc and linking it to nearby towns and cities. US-219, a major north-south highway, provides access to larger medical centers and specialists further afield.

Drive times are crucial for hypertension management. A patient experiencing a hypertensive crisis needs rapid access to medical care. The nearest hospital, Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, is approximately a 20-25 minute drive via PA-271 and US-219. This is generally considered acceptable, assuming traffic conditions are favorable. However, during inclement weather, such as heavy snow or ice, drive times can significantly increase, posing a potential risk.

Specialist appointments often necessitate travel to Johnstown or even further, to cities like Altoona or Pittsburgh. Traveling to Altoona, approximately an hour's drive via US-22, adds a considerable time commitment. Pittsburgh, with its numerous specialized medical facilities, presents a two-hour-plus journey via US-22 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike. These longer travel times can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those who experience fatigue related to their hypertension.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Revloc are limited, representing a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus service throughout the county, but the frequency and coverage in Revloc are not extensive. Route schedules are often infrequent, particularly during evenings and weekends, making it difficult to schedule medical appointments at convenient times.

The CCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limited route options and potential for long wait times can still present challenges for those with mobility issues or other health concerns. The need to coordinate schedules and potentially transfer between routes can add to the overall travel time and stress, which can negatively impact blood pressure.

For individuals considering moving to Revloc, the limitations of public transportation are a critical factor. Relying solely on the CCTA for healthcare access may prove difficult, particularly for routine appointments and specialist visits. The availability of public transit is a key component of the "Hypertension Score," reflecting its impact on healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Johnstown area, but their presence in Revloc is less consistent. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore not always a reliable option. The cost of ride-sharing can also add to the financial burden of healthcare, particularly for those with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Companies like Medical Transport Services and others provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and other needs. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with disabilities, those recovering from surgery, or those who are unable to drive. However, medical transportation services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, especially for appointments outside of regular business hours.

**The "Hypertension Score" in Context**

Considering the elements of transportation in Revloc, the "Hypertension Score" would be moderate. While the proximity to Johnstown provides relatively quick access to a hospital, the limitations of public transit, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation create significant barriers to healthcare access for some residents. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for increased drive times due to weather conditions add to the complexity.

For individuals considering moving to Revloc, the "Hypertension Score" highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration. Prioritizing proximity to healthcare facilities, exploring options for transportation assistance, and budgeting for potential transportation costs are crucial steps in ensuring effective hypertension management.

**Recommendations for Improved Healthcare Access**

To improve healthcare access in Revloc and enhance the "Hypertension Score," several steps could be taken. Increasing the frequency and coverage of CCTA bus routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, would significantly benefit residents. Encouraging the expansion of ride-sharing services in the area would also provide a valuable alternative.

Promoting awareness of medical transportation services and exploring options for financial assistance to cover their costs would be beneficial. Telehealth services, where possible, could reduce the need for in-person appointments and improve access to specialist care. Furthermore, community initiatives aimed at providing transportation assistance to those in need, such as volunteer driver programs, could play a vital role in bridging the transportation gap.

By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, Revloc can create a more supportive environment for individuals managing hypertension and other health conditions, ultimately improving their quality of life. The "Hypertension Score" is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to healthcare access and the well-being of its residents. It underscores the importance of considering transportation as an integral part of healthcare planning, especially for those choosing to call Revloc home.