16230, Hawthorn, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 16230, Hawthorn, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.41 percent of residents in 16230 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 13.34 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16230 (Hawthorn, PA)**

Navigating the intricate web of transportation options is paramount when assessing healthcare access, especially for residents in Hawthorn, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16230). This evaluation, framed as a "Hypertension Score," considers the challenges of reaching essential medical services, a critical factor for individuals managing hypertension. The score integrates drive times, public transit availability, ride-share possibilities, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape.

Hawthorn, a small community nestled in Clarion County, presents unique transportation hurdles. Its rural setting and limited public transit options necessitate a nuanced understanding of the commute to healthcare. The "Hypertension Score" aims to illuminate these challenges, providing valuable insights for residents and potential newcomers considering a move to Hawthorn.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary mode of transportation in Hawthorn is the personal vehicle. The time spent driving to healthcare facilities significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score." The closest hospital, Clarion Hospital, is approximately 15 miles away. The journey, primarily via **Pennsylvania Route 68**, can take between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Accessing specialized care might require travel to larger cities like Pittsburgh or Erie. These trips involve significantly longer drive times, impacting the "Hypertension Score" negatively. A drive to Pittsburgh, using **Interstate 80** and **Interstate 79**, can take upwards of two hours, making regular appointments difficult. This extended travel time poses a significant challenge for individuals with hypertension, potentially delaying or disrupting vital medical care.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

Public transportation options in Hawthorn are limited. The Clarion County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, especially on weekends and evenings. These services primarily serve Clarion and surrounding areas, with limited direct routes to healthcare facilities outside of Clarion.

The CCTA buses do offer ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, which is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited frequency and route coverage make public transit an unreliable option for many residents, especially those requiring prompt medical attention. The lack of robust public transit significantly elevates the "Hypertension Score."

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Clarion area, but their presence in Hawthorn itself is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density, which can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is, therefore, a gamble, impacting the "Hypertension Score."

Specialized medical transport services are available, catering specifically to patients needing assistance with transportation to medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services typically require advance booking and may involve associated costs, potentially adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the Clarion County area. Some of the prominent brands include:

* **Clarion Hospital Ambulance Service:** Provides emergency and non-emergency medical transport.
* **Area Agency on Aging (AAA):** Offers transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
* **Private medical transport companies:** Several private companies provide specialized transport services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport.

The availability and cost of these services vary, impacting the "Hypertension Score."

**Healthcare Access Implications:**

The "Hypertension Score" reflects the overall challenges of healthcare access in Hawthorn. The limited transportation options, coupled with potentially long drive times, can lead to delayed or missed appointments. This can negatively impact the management of hypertension, leading to uncontrolled blood pressure and increased risk of cardiovascular complications.

The lack of readily available transportation also presents a barrier to preventative care, such as routine check-ups and screenings, which are crucial for early detection and management of hypertension. These factors contribute to a higher "Hypertension Score," highlighting the need for improved transportation solutions to enhance healthcare access for residents.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

Improving healthcare access in Hawthorn requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transit routes and frequency, particularly to healthcare facilities, is essential. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to improve availability and affordability could also be beneficial. Furthermore, expanding the availability and awareness of medical transport services is crucial.

For individuals with hypertension considering moving to Hawthorn, a thorough assessment of transportation options is paramount. Understanding the drive times, public transit limitations, and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services is crucial for ensuring consistent access to healthcare. This "Hypertension Score" write-up serves as a starting point for this critical evaluation, highlighting the importance of transportation in managing hypertension and promoting overall well-being in the community.