17009, Burnham, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17009, Burnham, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.48 percent of residents in 17009 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 1.13 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Assessing Healthcare Access in Burnham, PA (ZIP Code 17009)**

The journey to effective hypertension management in Burnham, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17009), is inextricably linked to transportation. Assessing the accessibility of healthcare facilities equipped to diagnose, treat, and monitor hypertension is crucial for residents, especially those considering moving to Burnham. This analysis evaluates the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, to determine the ease with which individuals can access essential medical services. This 'Hypertension Score' aims to illuminate the realities of healthcare access within this specific ZIP code.

The foundation of healthcare access often begins with personal transportation. Residents of Burnham typically rely on their vehicles to navigate the region. The primary arteries for travel include **US Route 322**, a major east-west thoroughfare, and **US Route 522**, running north-south. These highways offer relatively quick access to larger medical centers and specialist offices located in neighboring towns. However, drive times can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours.

For example, a trip to Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, a significant healthcare provider, via **US Route 322** might take approximately 10-15 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, this time could easily double during rush hour. Similarly, accessing specialists in State College, requiring travel on **US Route 322** and then **Interstate 99**, could involve a 45-60 minute drive, potentially impacting the timeliness of care for those with hypertension.

Public transportation, while present, presents a different set of considerations. The Mifflin County Regional Transportation Authority (MCRTA) provides bus service within the county. Several routes, though not directly serving Burnham with high frequency, do offer connectivity to key medical facilities. Route 1, for instance, could connect residents to Lewistown, where they could then access healthcare providers.

However, the frequency of these routes is a critical factor. Limited service schedules, especially on weekends and evenings, can significantly restrict healthcare access. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is vital for individuals with mobility limitations, a factor that must be carefully considered in the 'Hypertension Score' assessment. The effectiveness of public transportation hinges on its ability to reliably and efficiently connect residents to the healthcare they require.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. Their availability in Burnham, however, is less predictable than in larger metropolitan areas. The presence of drivers and the associated costs can vary considerably. While ride-sharing can provide a convenient alternative to driving, its reliability and affordability are crucial factors in determining its role in healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, also play a role. These services often cater to individuals with specific medical needs, offering specialized vehicles and trained personnel. While these services can bridge gaps in transportation, they often come with higher costs and require advance booking, making them less suitable for urgent or spontaneous healthcare needs. Their availability is a critical factor for those with mobility issues or other health challenges.

The 'Hypertension Score' must also consider the physical locations of healthcare providers. Burnham itself has limited direct access to specialized healthcare services. Residents often need to travel to Lewistown or beyond for specialist appointments, diagnostic testing, and specialized treatments. This geographic dispersion emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation options.

The distance to pharmacies, where hypertension medications are dispensed, is another critical factor. Easy access to medication refills is essential for managing hypertension effectively. The proximity of pharmacies and their hours of operation, including weekend availability, directly influence the ease with which residents can adhere to their prescribed medication regimens.

The overall 'Hypertension Score' will reflect a nuanced understanding of these factors. It will consider the interplay between drive times, public transit schedules, ride-sharing availability, the presence of medical transportation services, the location of healthcare providers, and pharmacy access. This comprehensive assessment will help paint a clearer picture of the transportation landscape in Burnham.

For individuals considering moving to Burnham, this score provides a valuable insight into the practicality of accessing healthcare. It highlights potential challenges and opportunities related to transportation, empowering prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The 'Hypertension Score' is more than just a numerical rating; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to the health and well-being of its residents.

The 'Hypertension Score' will be further refined by incorporating data on wait times at healthcare facilities, the availability of telehealth services, and the presence of community health programs focused on hypertension management. These additional factors will provide a more holistic view of healthcare access in Burnham.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive and actionable assessment of healthcare access in Burnham, Pennsylvania. By carefully evaluating the transportation infrastructure and the availability of healthcare resources, the 'Hypertension Score' will serve as a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike. This analysis aims to contribute to the creation of a healthier and more accessible community.