17007, Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17007, Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.12 percent of residents in 17007 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Carlisle with a distance of 5.00 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Boiling Springs (ZIP Code 17007)

The decision to relocate, particularly to a new community like Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17007), often hinges on factors beyond the aesthetic charm and peaceful ambiance. For individuals managing hypertension, or high blood pressure, the accessibility of healthcare becomes paramount. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering the critical element of transportation to healthcare facilities, allowing prospective residents to evaluate the practicality of their move. This score will examine commute times, public transportation options, and alternative transportation methods, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare access within and around Boiling Springs.

Boiling Springs, nestled in the heart of Cumberland County, offers a picturesque setting. However, its rural location necessitates a thorough examination of transportation infrastructure. The primary healthcare providers for residents of 17007 are located in nearby towns and cities. Therefore, the ability to efficiently and reliably reach these facilities is critical for effective hypertension management. The "Hypertension Score" will consider these factors, providing a nuanced understanding of healthcare accessibility.

The cornerstone of any transportation analysis is the road network. For residents of Boiling Springs, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare are US Route 11 and PA Route 174. These roads connect Boiling Springs to larger population centers like Carlisle and Harrisburg, where a wider range of healthcare services are available. Driving times are a crucial aspect of the "Hypertension Score". During peak traffic hours, the drive to Carlisle, home to UPMC Carlisle, could take upwards of 25-30 minutes via US Route 11. The journey to Harrisburg, where Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center is located, can stretch to 45 minutes or more, particularly during rush hour, requiring travel on I-81.

The availability of public transportation offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. However, the public transit options in and around Boiling Springs are limited. The Capital Area Transit (CAT) system, which serves the Harrisburg area, does not extend its routes directly into Boiling Springs. This significantly impacts healthcare access for those who rely on public transportation. Individuals may need to utilize a combination of services, such as a ride-share to reach a CAT bus stop in a neighboring town, adding time and complexity to their healthcare journeys. Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of any available public transit options must be assessed. This is particularly important for individuals with mobility challenges who may require specialized transportation.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative. These services can provide door-to-door transportation, potentially mitigating some of the challenges associated with limited public transit. However, the availability and cost of ride-share services can vary depending on demand and time of day. In a more rural area like Boiling Springs, wait times for a ride-share may be longer than in a larger city, and the cost could be higher. This factor will be incorporated into the "Hypertension Score" calculation.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with healthcare needs. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare provide non-emergency medical transportation, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be a valuable resource for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. The availability and cost of medical transportation services in the Boiling Springs area will be considered.

The "Hypertension Score" will incorporate these various transportation factors to provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. The score will consider drive times to key healthcare providers, the availability and accessibility of public transportation, the reliability and cost of ride-share services, and the availability of medical transportation options. A higher score indicates better healthcare access, while a lower score indicates potential challenges.

The impact of these transportation limitations on hypertension management is significant. Regular healthcare appointments, including check-ups, medication refills, and diagnostic tests, are crucial for controlling blood pressure. Delays or difficulties in accessing these appointments can lead to poor medication adherence, uncontrolled hypertension, and increased risk of cardiovascular complications. The "Hypertension Score" aims to highlight these potential challenges, allowing prospective residents to make informed decisions about their move.

The "Hypertension Score" will also consider the proximity of pharmacies and other healthcare-related services. Access to pharmacies for medication refills is essential for hypertension management. The availability of local pharmacies in Boiling Springs and the surrounding areas will be assessed, as well as the ease of access to these pharmacies via various transportation methods.

Furthermore, the score will take into account the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, potentially reducing the need for in-person visits. The availability of telehealth services offered by local healthcare providers will be considered, as this can improve healthcare access for residents of Boiling Springs.

The "Hypertension Score" will be presented on a scale, with a clear explanation of the methodology used to calculate the score. This will allow prospective residents to understand the rationale behind the score and its implications for their healthcare needs. The score will be accompanied by recommendations for improving healthcare access, such as advocating for increased public transportation options or exploring the use of telehealth services.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Boiling Springs (ZIP code 17007) is designed to provide a realistic assessment of healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation. The score considers drive times, public transit limitations, ride-share availability, and medical transportation options. By understanding these factors, individuals managing hypertension can make informed decisions about their move to Boiling Springs, ensuring they can effectively manage their health and maintain their well-being. The score will serve as a valuable tool for anyone considering moving to this charming community, allowing them to weigh the benefits of Boiling Springs against the practical realities of healthcare access.