16729, Duke Center, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 16729, Duke Center, Pennsylvania is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.10 percent of residents in 16729 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Kane with a distance of 26.18 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 16729

Understanding the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, is crucial for residents of ZIP Code 16729. This write-up explores the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which residents can access essential medical services, including those specializing in hypertension management. The goal is to provide a comprehensive ‘Hypertension Score’ assessment, considering various transportation modalities and their impact on healthcare access. This score will inform residents, especially those considering moving to the area, about the practicality of managing their health within this specific geographic context.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in 16729 is the availability and efficiency of transportation. For individuals with hypertension, timely access to appointments, medication refills, and emergency care is paramount. The score will reflect the degree to which transportation options facilitate these needs.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Backbone of Access**

The reliance on personal vehicles is significant in 16729. The primary roadways, including US Route 6 and Pennsylvania Route 44, are critical arteries for accessing healthcare facilities. Driving times, especially during peak hours, directly impact the Hypertension Score. Longer drive times can lead to increased stress, a known contributor to elevated blood pressure, and can also delay necessary medical interventions.

For residents living in the more rural areas, a trip to a healthcare provider might involve navigating winding roads and potentially encountering adverse weather conditions, especially during winter months. The distance to the nearest medical facility, measured in both miles and drive time, will be a crucial component of the score.

The drive time to the nearest hospital, such as UPMC Kane, will be a major factor. The drive along US Route 6, while scenic, can be slow-going, particularly if encountering truck traffic. The condition of the roads and the availability of parking at healthcare facilities will also influence the score. The overall assessment will reflect how easily residents can travel from their homes to their healthcare providers.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 16729 are limited. The availability of buses or other forms of public transit directly impacts the Hypertension Score, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. The frequency of bus routes, their coverage of residential areas, and their proximity to healthcare facilities are all vital considerations.

The presence of ADA-accessible features on public transportation is also essential. Individuals with mobility limitations need reliable and accessible transportation to attend medical appointments. The lack of public transit, or the inadequacy of existing services, will negatively affect the Hypertension Score.

The routes, if any, that serve the area, including their schedules and accessibility, will be examined. The evaluation will consider whether public transportation offers a viable alternative for those who cannot or choose not to drive.

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

The presence and availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber or Lyft, can significantly impact the Hypertension Score. Ride-sharing provides an alternative to personal vehicles and can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are unable to drive or do not have access to a car. The reliability of these services, their cost, and their availability in the area will be evaluated.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also crucial. These services often cater to individuals with specific medical needs or mobility limitations. The availability of medical transport services, their coverage area, and their cost will be assessed.

The evaluation will consider the accessibility of these services, especially for individuals with hypertension who may require frequent medical visits. The overall assessment will reflect how these services can bridge the gaps in transportation options.

**The Impact of Healthcare Facility Location**

The location of healthcare facilities within and around 16729 is a critical factor. The proximity of primary care physicians, specialists (including cardiologists), pharmacies, and emergency rooms directly affects the Hypertension Score. The shorter the distance to these essential services, the higher the score.

The presence of specialized hypertension clinics or programs, or the ability to access these services, will be a significant positive factor. Access to comprehensive care, including regular check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle counseling, is crucial for managing hypertension effectively.

The availability of telehealth services, which can reduce the need for in-person visits, will also be considered. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. The evaluation will consider how the location of healthcare facilities and the availability of telehealth services impact the overall healthcare access.

**Moving to Duke Center: A Specific Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Duke Center, a specific area within 16729, the transportation landscape becomes even more relevant. The location of Duke Center relative to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the accessibility of essential services will be critical factors.

The proximity of Duke Center to the major roadways, the availability of public transportation, and the reliability of ride-sharing services will be carefully evaluated. The goal is to provide a realistic assessment of healthcare access for potential residents.

The evaluation will consider the impact of moving to Duke Center on the Hypertension Score. The assessment will highlight the specific transportation challenges and opportunities that residents of Duke Center may face.

**Calculating the Hypertension Score**

The Hypertension Score will be calculated based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above. The weights will reflect the relative importance of each factor in determining healthcare access.

* **Drive Times:** This will be the most heavily weighted factor, reflecting the reliance on personal vehicles.
* **Public Transportation:** This will be weighted based on the availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transit.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** This will be weighted based on the availability, reliability, and cost of these services.
* **Healthcare Facility Location:** This will be weighted based on the proximity of essential services, including primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and emergency rooms.
* **Telehealth Availability:** This will be considered as a positive factor, reducing the need for in-person visits.

The score will be presented on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing poor healthcare access and 10 representing excellent healthcare access. The score will be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology and the factors that influenced the final rating. The final score will reflect the overall ease with which residents of 16729, including those considering moving to Duke Center, can access healthcare services, especially those related to hypertension management. The goal is to empower residents with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.