16110, Adamsville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 16110, Adamsville, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.01 percent of residents in 16110 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Horizon with a distance of 6.44 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Adamsville (ZIP Code 16110)

The quest for optimal health often hinges on a fundamental factor: access to care. For residents of Adamsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16110), this equation takes on a unique complexion. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of *transportation* and *healthcare access* within this community, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals managing hypertension. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the landscape, aiding residents and those *moving to Adamsville* in making informed decisions about their health management.

Adamsville, a small community nestled in Lawrence County, presents a specific set of challenges. The prevalence of hypertension, a silent killer, necessitates regular medical attention, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications. The ability to reach healthcare providers promptly and reliably is therefore paramount. The "Hypertension Score" will evaluate various *transportation* options, considering their feasibility, cost, and accessibility for individuals with hypertension, particularly those with mobility limitations.

**The Road Less Traveled: Driving Times and Challenges**

For many Adamsville residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of *transportation*. However, the efficiency of this option is contingent on several factors. The major arteries connecting Adamsville to healthcare facilities are State Route 318 and U.S. Route 422. These roads, while providing direct routes, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting the timely arrival at appointments.

Driving to the closest major healthcare hub, UPMC Jameson Hospital in New Castle, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive involves navigating U.S. Route 422, a busy highway, and then city streets. The journey to Sharon Regional Medical Center, located approximately 30 minutes away via U.S. Route 62 and then U.S. Route 80, presents a similar challenge. The time commitment, especially for frequent check-ups or in case of emergencies, is a significant consideration.

Furthermore, the condition of roads, particularly during inclement weather, can add to the travel time and create safety concerns. Winter weather in Western Pennsylvania can render roads treacherous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to care. Individuals with hypertension, often with associated health conditions, are especially vulnerable during such times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public *transportation* options in Adamsville are limited. The Lawrence County Transit Authority (LCTA) provides bus service, but its routes and schedules may not adequately serve the needs of all residents, especially those with mobility challenges. Route 10, which serves the New Castle area, offers some connection, but the frequency of service and the distance to the nearest bus stops can be problematic.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of LCTA buses is a crucial consideration. All LCTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops along the routes and the overall travel time can still pose challenges for those with hypertension, who may require frequent restroom breaks or experience fatigue.

The lack of direct routes to healthcare facilities and the potential for extended travel times necessitate careful planning. Individuals relying on public *transportation* may need to factor in significant wait times and multiple transfers, adding to the overall stress of their journey.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Mixed Bag**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Adamsville area, offering a potentially convenient alternative to driving or public *transportation*. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially those on fixed incomes.

Medical *transportation* services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical *transportation* providers, offer a more tailored approach. These services often cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, providing assistance with mobility and ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, which might not be ideal for urgent situations.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services are critical factors in the "Hypertension Score" assessment. The ability to secure reliable and timely *transportation* is essential for managing hypertension effectively.

**The "Hypertension Score" and Recommendations**

The "Hypertension Score" for Adamsville (ZIP Code 16110) will be determined by evaluating the following factors:

* **Drive-time accessibility:** The average drive time to the nearest hospitals and clinics.
* **Public *transportation* availability:** The frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of LCTA services.
* **Ride-sharing and medical *transportation* access:** The availability, cost, and reliability of these services.
* **Road conditions and weather considerations:** The impact of seasonal weather and road maintenance on travel times.
* **Cost of *transportation*:** The financial burden associated with each *transportation* option.

Based on this evaluation, the "Hypertension Score" will be assigned, reflecting the overall ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare for individuals with hypertension in Adamsville.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Enhance public *transportation*:** Advocate for expanded LCTA routes and schedules, particularly to healthcare facilities. Explore the feasibility of a demand-response service to improve access for those with mobility limitations.
* **Promote ride-sharing and medical *transportation*:** Encourage partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates or subsidized *transportation* options for patients.
* **Improve road infrastructure:** Advocate for regular road maintenance and snow removal to ensure safe and reliable travel, especially during winter months.
* **Community outreach:** Educate residents about available *transportation* options and resources, including financial assistance programs.
* **Telehealth adoption:** Promote the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person visits, especially for routine check-ups and medication management.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating *healthcare access* in Adamsville (ZIP Code 16110) presents a multifaceted challenge for individuals managing hypertension. While driving offers a direct route, public *transportation* is limited, and ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services have variable availability and cost. By understanding these complexities and implementing targeted improvements, the community can strive to create a more accessible and supportive environment for those managing this chronic condition. This "Hypertension Score" analysis serves as a starting point for informed decision-making and community-wide efforts to improve *healthcare access* for all residents, especially those *moving to Adamsville* and seeking to prioritize their health.