15963, Windber, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 15963, Windber, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.18 percent of residents in 15963 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chan Soon- Shiong Medical Center At Windber with a distance of 1.36 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15963**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially for individuals managing hypertension, requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 15963 (Windber, Pennsylvania), providing a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' based on commute times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing services. This score is crucial for assessing the ease with which residents can reach essential medical appointments, a critical factor in effective hypertension management. The challenges of transportation significantly impact healthcare outcomes, especially for those with chronic conditions.

The primary concern is the time it takes to reach healthcare facilities, a critical element in managing hypertension. Delays in accessing medical care can lead to complications and reduced quality of life. The 'Hypertension Score' considers the accessibility of various medical providers, including primary care physicians, cardiologists, and pharmacies, all vital for hypertension management. The score incorporates drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, offering a holistic view of transportation challenges.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

Windber, Pennsylvania, is a rural community, and personal vehicles remain the dominant mode of transportation. The primary roads serving the area include US Route 219, a major north-south artery, and PA Route 56, connecting Windber to Johnstown. Travel times to healthcare facilities are largely dictated by these routes. A drive to Windber Hospital, the closest major healthcare provider, is generally a short trip, making it relatively convenient for residents.

However, accessing specialized care often requires travel to Johnstown, approximately 15 miles away. The drive to Johnstown via US Route 219 can take 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. For those seeking cardiology services or other specialized care, the commute time is a significant factor. The road conditions, especially during winter, can further impact travel times, potentially delaying access to critical care.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Windber are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus services, but the routes and frequency are restricted. The CCTA primarily serves Johnstown and surrounding areas, with limited service to Windber. Residents would need to consult the CCTA website for specific routes and schedules, which are subject to change.

The CCTA buses may not have frequent routes to healthcare facilities, making it challenging for individuals with hypertension to attend regular appointments. The lack of frequent service and the potential for long travel times can be a significant barrier to healthcare access. The CCTA buses have ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, which are essential for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, but their availability in Windber is less reliable. The presence of ride-sharing services can provide a valuable alternative for those without personal vehicles or who cannot drive. However, the cost and availability of these services can be a barrier, especially for individuals on fixed incomes.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are also available. These services typically cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. The availability of NEMT services is a critical component of healthcare access, especially for those with hypertension who may experience mobility issues. Several medical transport brands operate in the area, including those that offer door-to-door service.

**Evaluating the 'Hypertension Score'**

The 'Hypertension Score' for Windber (15963) is moderate, reflecting the challenges of rural healthcare access. While the proximity to Windber Hospital provides relatively easy access to primary care, the need for specialized care in Johnstown increases commute times. The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access.

For individuals with hypertension, the 'Hypertension Score' highlights the importance of planning and preparation. Regular medical appointments are crucial for managing hypertension, and the transportation challenges can make adherence difficult. The score underscores the need for individuals to consider the available transportation options and plan accordingly.

**Recommendations for Residents**

Residents of Windber managing hypertension should prioritize several strategies. First, they should establish a strong relationship with their primary care physician and discuss transportation challenges. Secondly, they should explore all available transportation options, including public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation. Finally, they should consider the potential impact of weather conditions on travel times, especially during winter.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Windber**

For individuals considering moving to Windber, the 'Hypertension Score' is a critical factor to consider. While the cost of living may be lower than in urban areas, the challenges of healthcare access should be carefully evaluated. Prospective residents with hypertension should assess the availability of healthcare providers, the commute times to appointments, and the availability of transportation services.

Moving to Windber necessitates a careful evaluation of healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the transportation challenges can significantly impact healthcare outcomes. Prospective residents should consider their transportation needs and plan accordingly. The 'Hypertension Score' provides a valuable framework for assessing the accessibility of healthcare services.

**Conclusion**

The 'Hypertension Score' for ZIP code 15963 provides a detailed assessment of healthcare access, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for residents managing hypertension. The score underscores the importance of transportation planning, the need for proactive communication with healthcare providers, and the critical role of accessible transportation services in supporting effective hypertension management. The score serves as a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, promoting improved healthcare outcomes in Windber.