16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.35 percent of residents in 16748 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Cole with a distance of 16.76 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Shinglehouse, PA (ZIP Code 16748)

This analysis examines the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16748), with a specific focus on individuals managing hypertension. Understanding the transportation landscape is critical for successful healthcare management, as limitations in mobility can significantly impact adherence to treatment plans and overall health outcomes. We will delve into the available transportation options, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, to assess the ease with which residents can access essential medical care. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Shinglehouse, as it directly impacts their ability to manage their health.

Shinglehouse, a small borough nestled in Potter County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its rural location necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, and the availability of alternative transportation options is limited. The ability to regularly attend appointments, pick up medications, and receive necessary treatments is heavily influenced by the availability and reliability of transportation. This analysis will provide a comprehensive overview of the transportation infrastructure and its implications for individuals managing hypertension in this specific geographic area.

The primary mode of transportation for residents of Shinglehouse is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access. The closest significant medical facilities are located in Olean, New York, approximately 25 miles northeast of Shinglehouse, and in Coudersport, Pennsylvania, about 20 miles southeast. The journey to Olean typically involves traveling on **Pennsylvania Route 44** and then **New York Route 417**, with an estimated drive time of 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The route to Coudersport primarily utilizes **Pennsylvania Route 44**, with a drive time of approximately 30 to 40 minutes.

These drive times, while manageable for many, can pose significant challenges for individuals with hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency visits require reliable transportation. The impact of weather, particularly during winter months, can further exacerbate these challenges, making travel hazardous and potentially delaying or preventing access to critical care. Individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive due to health conditions face even greater difficulties.

Public transportation options in Shinglehouse and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the borough. Residents needing public transit would need to rely on services offered by the Potter County Human Services Transportation Program. This program offers demand-response transportation, requiring advance booking and often limited service hours. While this program can provide a lifeline for some, it may not be suitable for urgent medical needs or frequent appointments. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including those with mobility limitations, is a crucial consideration. The availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and other ADA-compliant features within the transportation program is essential to ensure equitable access to healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally unavailable in Shinglehouse and the surrounding rural areas. The limited demand and geographic isolation make it economically unfeasible for these services to operate. This lack of ride-sharing options further restricts transportation choices for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to medical appointments. Several companies provide these services, including ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transport. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities, those who require assistance with mobility, or those who are unable to drive. However, the cost of medical transport can be a significant barrier to access, and the availability of these services may be limited, requiring advance booking and potentially extended wait times. Investigating the specific medical transport providers serving the area is essential for understanding the available options and their associated costs.

For individuals managing hypertension, regular access to healthcare is paramount. This includes routine check-ups, medication management, and prompt attention to any health concerns. The transportation challenges in Shinglehouse can significantly impact the ability to maintain optimal health. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the lack of public transit, and the absence of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and reliance on personal vehicles or specialized medical transport.

Considering the limitations in transportation options, individuals with hypertension residing in Shinglehouse must proactively address their healthcare access needs. This includes establishing a reliable transportation plan, whether it involves relying on family or friends, arranging for medical transport, or carefully managing their medication refills to minimize the frequency of trips to the pharmacy.

For those considering moving to Shinglehouse, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. Understanding the drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability of medical transport, and the potential for weather-related disruptions is essential for making an informed decision. This analysis underscores the importance of prioritizing healthcare access when evaluating the suitability of a new location.

The "Hypertension Score" for Shinglehouse, based on this analysis, would reflect the limited transportation options and the potential challenges in accessing healthcare. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are manageable for those with personal vehicles, the lack of alternative transportation options and the potential for weather-related disruptions create significant vulnerabilities. Individuals with mobility limitations, those without access to a vehicle, or those who require frequent medical appointments may face substantial difficulties in managing their hypertension effectively.

In conclusion, while Shinglehouse offers a tranquil and rural lifestyle, the limitations in transportation options present significant challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and proactive measures to ensure consistent access to healthcare. Those considering moving to Shinglehouse should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the potential impact on their ability to manage their health effectively. Addressing these transportation challenges is crucial for promoting the well-being of residents with hypertension and ensuring their ability to thrive in this rural community.