17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.32 percent of residents in 17044 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 1.81 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lewistown (ZIP Code 17044)

Lewistown, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Mifflin County, presents a unique landscape for residents managing hypertension. The rural nature of the area significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly concerning transportation. This write-up analyzes the challenges and opportunities within ZIP code 17044, providing a "Hypertension Score" based on the ease of reaching essential medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. It is designed to aid individuals, especially those considering moving to Lewistown, in understanding the practical realities of managing hypertension within this specific geographical context.

The "Hypertension Score" will be presented on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 representing the most challenging access and 5 indicating the easiest access. The score reflects the cumulative impact of transportation limitations on a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent medical care. It is crucial to remember that this analysis provides a general overview and individual experiences may vary.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of Lewistown are US Route 322 and US Route 22. These highways are vital for accessing larger medical facilities located outside of the immediate ZIP code. Driving to the nearest major hospital, Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital, is a relatively short trip, typically taking under 10 minutes for those residing within the town limits. However, specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, might necessitate travel to facilities in Harrisburg or State College.

Reaching Harrisburg, approximately 60 miles away, involves navigating US Route 322 East. This drive typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. State College, roughly 70 miles away, is accessible via US Route 322 West, with a similar travel time. These longer commutes pose a significant challenge for individuals with hypertension, particularly during emergencies or frequent follow-up appointments. The condition of these roads, especially during winter months, can further complicate travel, potentially increasing drive times and creating safety concerns.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options:**

Public transportation options in Lewistown are limited. The Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides bus services within the county. However, the routes and schedules may not be ideally suited for frequent medical appointments. The MCTA operates on a fixed-route system, with limited service on evenings and weekends. ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. The bus routes primarily serve the town of Lewistown and surrounding areas, potentially requiring multiple transfers for residents in more remote locations to reach healthcare facilities.

The limited scope of public transportation presents a significant hurdle for individuals who cannot or prefer not to drive. This scarcity impacts healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed appointments, missed medications, and a decline in overall health outcomes. The lack of readily available public transit necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, informal transportation networks, or specialized medical transport services.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

The availability of ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, is limited in Lewistown. This is a common issue in rural areas, where demand is lower, and service coverage is often inconsistent. While ride-share services might be available, wait times can be extended, and the cost can be prohibitive for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available to assist patients in reaching healthcare facilities. These services are specifically designed for individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transportation. However, these services can be expensive and may require prior arrangements. Several regional and national medical transport brands operate within the area, including private ambulance companies and NEMT providers. The availability and responsiveness of these services are crucial for ensuring timely healthcare access, especially for individuals experiencing acute hypertensive crises or needing regular dialysis.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations:**

The geographical isolation of Lewistown impacts healthcare access. While Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital provides essential services, specialized care often requires travel to larger medical centers. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation options. Individuals with hypertension must factor in drive times, potential traffic delays, and the availability of public transit or ride-share services when scheduling appointments and managing their medication regimens.

The availability of telehealth services can mitigate some of the challenges associated with transportation. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, telehealth requires reliable internet access, which may be a limitation in some areas of Mifflin County.

**Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 17044:**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 17044 is a **2**. This score reflects the challenges presented by limited public transportation, the dependence on personal vehicles, and the potential for long drive times to access specialized care. While Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital provides local healthcare, the reliance on US Route 322 and US Route 22 for accessing more comprehensive services adds a layer of complexity. The limited availability of ride-share services and the need for pre-arranged medical transport further contribute to the score. This score underscores the importance of proactive planning, utilizing available resources, and exploring alternative healthcare delivery models like telehealth to effectively manage hypertension in this area.

**Recommendations for Improved Healthcare Access:**

To improve healthcare access for individuals with hypertension in Lewistown, several strategies are recommended. Expanding public transportation options, including increased frequency and extended service hours, would significantly benefit those without personal vehicles. Encouraging ride-share companies to expand their service area and offering subsidies for medical transportation could reduce transportation costs. Promoting telehealth services and ensuring reliable internet access would enhance access to healthcare for residents in remote locations. Finally, community education programs focused on hypertension management and transportation resources could empower individuals to take control of their health and navigate the complexities of healthcare access in Lewistown.