17004, Belleville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17004, Belleville, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.00 percent of residents in 17004 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 8.82 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17004**

The quaint borough of Belleville, Pennsylvania, nestled in ZIP code 17004, offers a tranquil setting for those seeking a slower pace of life. However, when considering a move to this community, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, a crucial factor emerges: healthcare access. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape of Belleville, analyzing the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflective of the community's ability to support cardiovascular health.

The primary challenge in assessing healthcare access in Belleville lies in its rural character. The town is not a bustling metropolis; therefore, public transportation options are limited. The roads, while scenic, can present difficulties, especially for those with mobility issues or during inclement weather. The ability to reach medical appointments promptly and reliably is paramount for hypertension management, making transportation a critical determinant of quality of life.

**Roadway Navigation and Drive Times**

For residents of 17004, the automobile reigns supreme for transportation. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Pennsylvania Route 655 and Pennsylvania Route 655, which connect Belleville to larger towns and cities where medical facilities are located. Driving to the nearest major medical center, Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, located in Lewistown, Pennsylvania, requires navigating these roadways.

The drive to Lewistown, approximately 15 miles away, typically takes between 25 and 35 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This commute involves traversing winding roads and potential bottlenecks, particularly during peak hours. For individuals with hypertension, the stress of navigating these roads, especially in adverse conditions, can be a factor to consider.

Further afield, access to more specialized care may necessitate travel to larger cities like Harrisburg, approximately 60 miles away. This journey would involve utilizing Route 322, a major highway connecting the region. The drive to Harrisburg can take upwards of an hour and a half, adding significant time and potential stress to the process of receiving medical attention.

**Public Transit Limitations**

Public transportation options in Belleville are extremely limited. The lack of a comprehensive public transit system poses a significant hurdle for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. There are no established bus routes operating within the borough or providing direct access to medical facilities in neighboring towns.

The absence of public transit underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods. For individuals with hypertension who may experience mobility issues or who are unable to drive, this limitation can create substantial challenges in accessing necessary healthcare services. The lack of ADA-compliant public transit further exacerbates these difficulties for those with disabilities.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as prevalent as in larger urban centers. Availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments requires careful planning and can be costly.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar and LifeFleet, are available for individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to ensure safe and comfortable transport. However, these services are typically reserved for individuals with specific medical needs and may require prior arrangements and authorization.

**Healthcare Access and Community Considerations**

The accessibility of healthcare in Belleville is inextricably linked to transportation. The current landscape presents challenges for individuals with hypertension. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to consistent and timely access to medical care.

The nearest pharmacies and primary care physicians are located in Lewistown. While the drive is relatively short, the need to navigate roads and potential traffic can be a source of stress. The lack of readily available public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles can be particularly challenging for elderly residents or those with mobility limitations.

**Hypertension Score Assessment**

Based on the factors outlined above, the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 17004 would reflect the challenges associated with healthcare access. The score would consider the following:

* **Drive Times:** The average drive times to medical facilities in Lewistown and Harrisburg.
* **Public Transit:** The complete absence of public transit options.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The limited and potentially unreliable availability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Services:** The availability and accessibility of medical transport services.
* **Community Resources:** The availability of local support services, such as community health programs and patient advocacy groups.

The score would be weighted to reflect the importance of each factor, with a higher weight given to the availability of reliable and accessible transportation options. The final score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the community's ability to support individuals managing hypertension, helping potential residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Conclusion: Moving to Belleville**

For individuals considering moving to Belleville, Pennsylvania, the transportation landscape must be carefully considered, especially for those managing hypertension. While the borough offers a tranquil setting, the limitations in healthcare access necessitate careful planning and consideration. The reliance on personal vehicles and the absence of robust public transit options may pose challenges for some residents.

Before making a move, prospective residents should assess their transportation needs, explore available options, and consider the potential impact on their ability to access medical care. This includes evaluating drive times, ride-sharing availability, and the potential need for medical transport services. By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about whether Belleville is the right fit for their healthcare needs and overall well-being. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing the community's ability to support cardiovascular health, helping potential residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.