17029, Granville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17029, Granville, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 17029 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 5.28 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Granville, PA (ZIP Code 17029)

Granville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Mifflin County, presents a unique landscape for residents, especially those managing hypertension. The ability to readily access healthcare, a critical factor in managing this condition, is heavily influenced by the available **transportation** options. This write-up assesses the "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP code 17029, considering the challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare access. This is particularly relevant for those considering **moving to Granville**, as it impacts their daily lives and health management.

The foundation of our analysis lies in understanding the geographical realities. Granville is a rural community, and the nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are located in Lewistown, the county seat. This immediately introduces a **transportation** hurdle. The primary route to Lewistown is via US-22, a major east-west highway. However, relying solely on US-22 can be problematic during peak hours, inclement weather, or if the route is blocked by an accident.

Drive times, therefore, become a crucial metric. Under ideal conditions, the drive from Granville to Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital, the primary healthcare provider in the area, is approximately 10-15 minutes. However, this can easily extend to 20-30 minutes during rush hour, particularly in the morning and late afternoon. The journey often involves navigating the local roads, such as Granville Road and Back Mountain Road, which can be narrow and winding, further complicating the commute.

The absence of a robust public **transportation** system is a significant challenge. Mifflin County, like many rural areas, lacks extensive bus routes. The Mifflin County Transit Authority (MCTA) operates a limited service, primarily focused on serving Lewistown and surrounding areas. While the MCTA does provide demand-response services, which can be booked in advance, these services are not always readily available, especially for urgent appointments or those requiring frequent visits. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles, crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, needs to be confirmed prior to relying on this system.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the area, but their availability is not guaranteed. The rural nature of Granville means that ride-sharing services may be less frequent and more expensive than in urban areas. This can create a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, especially for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. Booking a ride in advance is highly recommended, but even then, delays or cancellations can occur.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** providers. These services often offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be costly, and their availability might be limited, particularly for short-notice appointments.

The "Hypertension Score" for Granville residents, therefore, is directly impacted by these factors. The score considers the reliability and ease of access to healthcare facilities, factoring in drive times, public **transportation** limitations, ride-sharing availability, and the cost and availability of medical **transportation**. The lack of robust public **transportation** and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services contribute to a lower score.

For individuals with hypertension, consistent access to medical care, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and specialist appointments, is essential. The **transportation** challenges in Granville can make this difficult, potentially leading to missed appointments and compromised health outcomes. This is a crucial consideration for those **moving to Granville** and managing this chronic condition.

The need for proactive planning is paramount. Residents should familiarize themselves with the available **transportation** options, including the MCTA, ride-sharing services, and medical **transportation** providers. Building relationships with local healthcare providers and scheduling appointments in advance can help mitigate some of the **transportation** challenges.

Furthermore, the availability of telehealth services can play a vital role in improving **healthcare access**. Telehealth allows patients to consult with their doctors remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This is especially beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who live far from healthcare facilities.

The "Hypertension Score" is not static; it can be improved through community initiatives and policy changes. Increased investment in public **transportation**, including expanding the MCTA's services and improving ADA accessibility, would significantly benefit residents. Encouraging the growth of ride-sharing services and making medical **transportation** more affordable and accessible are also crucial steps.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" in Granville highlights the complex interplay between **transportation**, healthcare access, and overall well-being. While the rural setting presents challenges, proactive planning, community support, and policy initiatives can improve the lives of residents managing hypertension and those considering **moving to Granville**. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape effectively is essential for maintaining good health and quality of life. The drive times, the limited public **transportation**, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services paint a picture of the challenges faced by residents.