16725, Custer City, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 16725, Custer City, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.00 percent of residents in 16725 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Kane with a distance of 12.71 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Custer City (ZIP Code 16725)

The quaint borough of Custer City, nestled within the rolling hills of McKean County, Pennsylvania, presents a unique landscape for those seeking healthcare. Understanding the challenges and opportunities surrounding transportation is crucial for residents, particularly those managing hypertension, a condition demanding consistent medical attention. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, delves into the realities of accessing healthcare within ZIP code 16725, focusing on transportation options and their impact on patient well-being. Considering the implications of moving to Custer City, this analysis provides a comprehensive overview.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Custer City is the automobile. Driving is the primary mode of transportation, connecting residents to medical facilities scattered across the region. The primary artery for travel is Pennsylvania Route 44, a two-lane highway that meanders through the heart of the borough. This route provides direct access to the nearest primary care physicians and pharmacies, but its narrow lanes and potential for seasonal weather-related delays demand careful planning, especially for those with hypertension.

Further afield, the Pennsylvania Route 6 provides a wider thoroughfare, connecting Custer City to larger towns like Bradford and Smethport. This route is crucial for accessing specialized medical services, including cardiology, nephrology, and endocrinology, often unavailable locally. However, the increased distance translates to longer drive times, a critical factor for individuals with hypertension, who may experience stress or discomfort during extended travel. The journey to Bradford, for instance, can take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. The McKean County Transit Authority (MCTA) offers a bus service, but its routes and schedules are infrequent, especially during evenings and weekends. The primary route serving Custer City is Route 1, which connects to Bradford and other surrounding communities. While the MCTA strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, the limited frequency and potential for long wait times pose significant challenges for patients with mobility issues or those requiring timely medical attention. This limitation highlights a key challenge for healthcare access in the area.

The absence of extensive public transportation necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, but their availability is often inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Custer City. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for some residents, further exacerbating the difficulties of accessing healthcare. This situation underscores the need for proactive planning and potential reliance on family or friends for transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several regional providers offer services to Custer City residents, including ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transport companies. These services are often covered by insurance, but they require pre-booking and may have limited availability, especially during peak hours or for specialized appointments. The use of medical transportation can provide peace of mind for patients with hypertension, but it requires careful coordination and planning.

The impact of transportation limitations on healthcare access is significant. Patients with hypertension need regular check-ups, medication refills, and potentially specialized care. Delays in accessing these services can lead to uncontrolled blood pressure, increasing the risk of serious complications like heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. The stress of navigating transportation challenges can also exacerbate hypertension symptoms, creating a vicious cycle.

The "Hypertension Score" for Custer City, therefore, reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While primary care physicians and pharmacies are relatively accessible via car, the limitations of public transportation, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the need for pre-planning for medical transport services create barriers for some residents. The distance to specialized medical care adds another layer of complexity.

For those considering moving to Custer City, understanding these transportation challenges is paramount. Individuals with hypertension should carefully assess their transportation options and develop a comprehensive plan for accessing healthcare. This plan should include identifying reliable transportation resources, establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, and proactively scheduling appointments to minimize travel-related stress.

Furthermore, the local community can play a vital role in improving healthcare access. Efforts to expand public transportation services, incentivize ride-sharing companies, and promote volunteer driver programs could significantly benefit residents with hypertension and other chronic conditions. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to address the transportation challenges and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the care they need.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" for Custer City is not static. It is a reflection of the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and the individual choices residents make to navigate the transportation landscape. By understanding the challenges and embracing proactive planning, residents with hypertension can successfully manage their condition and enjoy a fulfilling life in this charming Pennsylvania borough.