16440, Venango, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 16440, Venango, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.96 percent of residents in 16440 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Meadville Medical Center with a distance of 9.38 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 16440

The journey to manage hypertension, a silent threat to cardiovascular health, often begins with understanding the hurdles to accessing care. This write-up, tailored for residents of ZIP Code 16440 (Oil City, PA), explores the intricate landscape of **transportation** options available to reach essential **healthcare access** points, particularly for those managing hypertension. This information is critical for residents, especially those **moving to Venango** County, to proactively assess their ability to maintain consistent medical oversight.

The “Hypertension Score” is not a formal medical metric but a conceptual tool. It considers the ease of reaching primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and emergency services. The lower the perceived score, the more challenging it is to access necessary care, and vice versa. This analysis focuses on the practical realities of **transportation** in 16440, providing a framework for residents to assess their individual needs and challenges.

Driving remains the primary mode of **transportation** in this rural region. The core of 16440 is served by Route 8, the main artery connecting Oil City to neighboring towns. Northbound, Route 8 leads to Franklin, where the UPMC Northwest hospital is located, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. Southbound, Route 8 travels towards Emlenton and beyond, offering access to additional medical facilities, albeit with longer drive times.

Route 62, another significant thoroughfare, intersects Route 8 in Oil City. This road provides access to various medical offices and pharmacies within the city limits. However, the condition of these roads, especially during harsh weather, can significantly impact drive times and safety. The presence of hills and winding roads further complicates travel, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those driving older vehicles.

For residents without personal vehicles, the options are limited. Public **transportation** is provided by the Venango County Regional **Transportation** Authority (VCRTA). The VCRTA offers fixed-route services within Oil City and Franklin, with limited connections to surrounding areas. However, the frequency of these routes is often insufficient for frequent medical appointments, and the service area may not reach all residents in need.

The VCRTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the availability of these vehicles and the overall accessibility of bus stops, particularly in areas with limited sidewalks or challenging terrain, remain a concern. Detailed route information, including schedules and ADA features, can be found on the VCRTA website.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in 16440, but their reliability and affordability can vary. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is not guaranteed. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for individuals with limited incomes, making it a less viable option for regular medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available in the area. These services, such as MedStar **Transportation** and other local providers, offer non-emergency medical **transportation** to and from medical appointments. They typically provide door-to-door service and assistance with mobility, making them a valuable resource for individuals with chronic conditions like hypertension. However, these services often require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent needs.

The location of pharmacies within 16440 is a crucial factor. Several pharmacies are conveniently located within Oil City, accessible by car or, in some cases, by walking or using the VCRTA. However, residents in more remote areas may face longer travel times to pick up prescriptions, potentially impacting medication adherence.

Emergency medical services (EMS) are readily available in 16440. The Oil City Fire Department and other local EMS providers respond to emergency calls, providing immediate medical care and **transportation** to the nearest hospital. However, the response time can be affected by traffic, weather conditions, and the distance from the emergency location.

The proximity of healthcare facilities is another key consideration. UPMC Northwest in Franklin offers a range of medical services, including cardiology and other specialized care relevant to hypertension management. However, residents may need to travel further to access certain specialists or advanced medical procedures, potentially increasing the burden of **transportation**.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for 16440 is moderate. While the presence of Route 8 and Route 62 provides relatively easy access to healthcare facilities within the city and in Franklin, the limitations of public **transportation**, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical **transportation** services can create challenges for some residents.

For individuals **moving to Venango** County, a careful assessment of their **transportation** needs is essential. Consider the following:

* **Vehicle ownership:** Is a reliable vehicle available? Are you comfortable driving in various weather conditions?
* **Public **transportation** accessibility:** Are the VCRTA routes convenient and frequent enough for your needs?
* **Ride-sharing availability:** Can you rely on ride-sharing services for appointments?
* **Medical **transportation** options:** Are you eligible for medical **transportation** services, and can you afford them?
* **Proximity to healthcare:** How far are you from your primary care physician, pharmacy, and specialists?

By carefully considering these factors, residents of 16440 can proactively manage their **healthcare access** and ensure that they can effectively manage their hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" is a starting point for a personalized assessment, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being in this unique rural setting. The journey to better health begins with understanding the landscape, and in 16440, that landscape is shaped by the roads we travel and the choices we make.