17046, Lebanon, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17046, Lebanon, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.52 percent of residents in 17046 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Good Samaritan Hospital with a distance of 1.83 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 17046

The pursuit of optimal health often hinges on something seemingly mundane: the ability to get to a doctor. For residents of ZIP Code 17046 (Lebanon, Pennsylvania), this reality is a complex equation, especially for those managing hypertension. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating healthcare access for individuals living with high blood pressure. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport solutions, painting a detailed picture of how residents of 17046 navigate the journey to vital healthcare.

The very nature of hypertension demands consistent monitoring and management. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential specialist appointments are crucial. Transportation becomes a critical factor, influencing adherence to treatment plans and, ultimately, impacting health outcomes. Understanding the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare in 17046 is paramount for residents, potential movers, and healthcare providers alike.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roadways**

For those who drive, the primary arteries for healthcare access in 17046 are US Route 422 and PA Route 72. These roadways serve as lifelines, connecting residents to various medical facilities. Drive times, however, can fluctuate dramatically based on traffic, especially during peak hours. Traveling west on US-422 provides direct access to WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital, the primary hospital in Lebanon. The drive typically takes between 5 to 10 minutes, depending on traffic flow.

PA Route 72, running north and south, offers access to smaller clinics and medical offices scattered throughout the city and surrounding areas. Driving south on 72 might lead to practices in the nearby town of Cornwall. However, these smaller practices might not offer the same breadth of services as the hospital. Further, the condition of these roadways can vary, impacting travel times.

Other local roads, such as 10th Street, Cumberland Street, and Quentin Road, play a vital role in accessing healthcare. These streets provide access to various clinics and offices. However, navigating these roads can be challenging, particularly during rush hour. Understanding these drive times is essential for individuals with hypertension, who may need to factor in extra time for travel.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

The availability of public transportation in 17046 presents a mixed bag. Lebanon Transit Authority (LTA) operates a bus system, offering a potentially accessible option for those without personal vehicles. However, the routes and schedules are limited, and the frequency of buses can be infrequent.

Several LTA routes, including the 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, serve areas within and around 17046. These routes connect to the downtown area, where many medical offices are located. However, the routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities, requiring transfers and potentially increasing travel time.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. LTA strives to provide accessible services, but the reliability and ease of use of these features should be carefully assessed. The availability of real-time tracking of bus locations can also be a factor in planning a trip.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services can be particularly valuable for individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to a vehicle. Availability, however, can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

The cost of ride-sharing services can also be a significant factor, particularly for individuals with limited incomes. The cost of regular trips to medical appointments can quickly add up, potentially becoming a barrier to healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), provide specialized assistance for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have limited availability.

Several NEMT providers operate in the Lebanon area, including companies like First Transit and LogistiCare. These services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations, but they require careful planning and coordination with healthcare providers.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Hypertension Score" for 17046 reveals a complex picture. While the presence of a major hospital and various clinics within a relatively small geographic area suggests good healthcare access, transportation limitations create significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services all contribute to the complexity.

For individuals with hypertension, the ability to consistently and reliably access healthcare is paramount. The need for regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential specialist appointments necessitates a transportation system that is efficient, affordable, and accessible.

**Moving to Lebanon: Considering Transportation**

For those considering moving to 17046, the transportation landscape should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. Individuals with hypertension, or those with mobility limitations, should carefully evaluate the availability of transportation options and their potential impact on healthcare access.

Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit routes, and the reliability of ride-sharing services should all be considered. Researching the specific transportation needs and available resources is crucial for ensuring that healthcare access is not a barrier to a healthy lifestyle.

The "Hypertension Score" assessment underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to healthcare access. It highlights the need for a robust and reliable transportation system, particularly for vulnerable populations. By understanding the transportation challenges and exploring available solutions, residents of 17046 can better manage their health and navigate the journey to healthcare.