16259, Templeton, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 16259, Templeton, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.62 percent of residents in 16259 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Acmh Hospital with a distance of 8.70 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Templeton, PA (ZIP Code 16259)

The quest for optimal health often begins with understanding the challenges one faces in accessing care. This is particularly true for individuals managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent monitoring and treatment. In this write-up, we'll explore the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare access in Templeton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16259), to help assess a hypothetical "Hypertension Score" for residents. This score will consider the ease with which individuals can reach essential medical appointments, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Templeton or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.

The primary determinant of a good Hypertension Score is the ease of access to regular check-ups, medication refills, and specialized care when needed. A high score reflects readily available and efficient transportation options, minimizing the stress and inconvenience associated with managing hypertension. Conversely, a low score indicates significant barriers to healthcare access, potentially impacting treatment adherence and overall well-being.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Templeton**

Templeton, nestled in Armstrong County, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary thoroughfare is **Pennsylvania Route 28**, a major highway that connects the area to Pittsburgh and other regional hubs. Driving to healthcare providers in nearby towns like Kittanning, the county seat, or even further afield to Pittsburgh, is a common practice. The drive to Kittanning via Route 28 is typically a short, pleasant journey, usually taking around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

However, the availability of healthcare within a reasonable driving distance is a critical factor. While Kittanning offers a variety of medical services, including primary care physicians, specialists, and a hospital, residents may need to travel further for specialized treatments. The drive to Pittsburgh, which boasts a comprehensive network of hospitals and medical centers, can range from 1 to 1.5 hours via Route 28, depending on traffic conditions, especially during peak commuting hours. This longer drive time can significantly impact the Hypertension Score, particularly for individuals who require frequent appointments or experience mobility challenges.

Other local roads, such as **Route 85** and various secondary roads, offer alternative routes, but they are often slower and less direct. These roads are crucial for accessing local pharmacies, urgent care facilities, and other essential services. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can also impact travel times and safety, further influencing the Hypertension Score.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Templeton are limited, which presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The **Armstrong County Transportation (ACT)** provides bus services, but these routes are often infrequent and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. ACT primarily operates on a demand-response basis, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility impairments. ACT does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, but the scheduling process and limited service frequency can still pose difficulties. The lack of readily available public transit significantly lowers the Hypertension Score, particularly for those who rely on these services.

The bus routes and schedules should be thoroughly investigated to ascertain their relevance to healthcare access. Potential riders must consider the travel time, the frequency of service, and the proximity of bus stops to their homes and medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Templeton area, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance with transportation, offer another option. Companies like **Medical Transportation Services (MTS)** or local providers might be available in the area. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. The cost of these services can vary, and eligibility for insurance coverage should be investigated.

The presence of ride-sharing and medical transport options can improve the Hypertension Score, particularly for those who cannot drive or have limited access to public transit. However, the reliability, cost, and availability of these services must be carefully considered.

**Impact on the Hypertension Score**

The overall Hypertension Score for Templeton, PA (ZIP code 16259) is likely moderate. The availability of personal vehicles and the relatively short drive to Kittanning for basic healthcare services contribute positively. However, the limited public transit options, the potential for longer drives to access specialized care in Pittsburgh, and the variability of ride-sharing services present significant challenges.

Individuals with hypertension must carefully assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly. This includes considering the frequency of medical appointments, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport services.

**Moving to Templeton: A Healthcare Considerations**

For those considering moving to Templeton, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is crucial. This assessment should include:

* **Proximity to healthcare providers:** Identify the location of primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and hospitals.
* **Transportation options:** Evaluate the availability of personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport.
* **Drive times:** Determine the estimated travel times to healthcare facilities, considering traffic conditions.
* **Cost of transportation:** Factor in the cost of gas, ride-sharing, or medical transport services.
* **Mobility limitations:** Assess the accessibility of transportation options for individuals with mobility impairments.

By carefully considering these factors, prospective residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have adequate access to the care they require.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Healthcare Access**

The Hypertension Score in Templeton reflects the complex interplay between transportation and healthcare access. While the area offers some advantages, such as the proximity to Kittanning and the potential for ride-sharing, the limitations of public transit and the need for longer drives to access specialized care pose significant challenges. Addressing these challenges through improved public transit options, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and enhanced medical transport services would significantly improve the Hypertension Score and enhance the overall well-being of residents. This is a crucial consideration for those who live in Templeton, and especially for those moving to Templeton, and the future of healthcare access in the area.