16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.83 percent of residents in 16224 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 10.90 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fairmount City (ZIP Code 16224)

Fairmount City, nestled within ZIP Code 16224, presents a unique landscape for residents managing hypertension, a chronic condition demanding consistent healthcare access. This write-up explores the transportation infrastructure available to residents, assessing its impact on their ability to reach medical appointments and acquire necessary medications. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access within this community. Understanding these factors is crucial for individuals considering moving to Fairmount City or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.

The cornerstone of navigating Fairmount City and its surrounding areas is the automobile. For those with hypertension, the ability to swiftly reach medical facilities is paramount. Driving times to healthcare providers in this region can vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day. A trip to the nearest hospital, Clarion Hospital, might involve a journey along **Pennsylvania Route 28 (PA-28)**, a major artery connecting Fairmount City to Clarion. During peak hours, this drive could take upwards of 20 minutes, potentially longer if encountering traffic congestion.

Alternatively, residents might need to travel to facilities in New Bethlehem. This involves navigating local roads, including **Red Bank Creek Road** and **Main Street**, and the drive time is generally shorter, around 10-15 minutes. However, these roads are often subject to weather-related delays, particularly during winter months, impacting timely healthcare access.

The availability of public transportation is a critical component of healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. Unfortunately, public transit options in the 16224 ZIP code are limited. The primary provider is the **Clarion County Transportation Authority (CCTA)**, offering demand-response services. While the CCTA provides door-to-door transportation, its routes and schedules are not fixed, requiring pre-booking and potentially longer travel times.

The CCTA's services are theoretically ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the reliability and efficiency of this service are crucial factors in determining its suitability for individuals managing hypertension. The need for pre-booking and potential wait times can pose challenges, especially for those with urgent medical needs or those requiring frequent appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as alternative transportation options. However, their availability in Fairmount City is sporadic. While these services may be accessible, their reliability, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is uncertain. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, especially for those with limited financial resources, potentially hindering their ability to attend regular medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. Several providers operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transport. These services typically involve pre-scheduled transportation, often using wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, the availability of these services and their coverage within the 16224 ZIP code should be carefully investigated.

Beyond the physical transportation infrastructure, other factors influence healthcare access. The proximity of pharmacies to residents is crucial for timely medication refills. The availability of telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, can also play a significant role in managing hypertension.

For individuals considering moving to Fairmount City, a thorough assessment of the available transportation options is essential. This assessment should include evaluating drive times to various healthcare providers, the reliability and accessibility of public transit, and the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The healthcare landscape in Fairmount City, while offering some options, presents challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the uncertainties surrounding ride-sharing services highlight the need for careful planning and proactive strategies.

The **Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT)** is responsible for maintaining the roads, and their work directly impacts healthcare access. Road closures, construction, and weather-related delays can disrupt transportation, adding to the stress of managing a chronic condition.

Understanding the nuances of healthcare access within the 16224 ZIP code requires a multi-faceted approach. It is imperative to consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This comprehensive assessment is essential for those seeking to optimize their healthcare journey and for those considering making Fairmount City their home.

The ability to swiftly and reliably access healthcare is a critical determinant of quality of life, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. By carefully evaluating the available transportation options, residents of Fairmount City can proactively manage their healthcare needs and ensure they receive the timely and effective care they deserve.