17061, Millersburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17061, Millersburg, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.61 percent of residents in 17061 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 18.02 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Millersburg, PA (ZIP Code 17061)

Millersburg, Pennsylvania, a charming borough nestled along the Susquehanna River, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, for individuals managing hypertension, or high blood pressure, the accessibility of healthcare services is a crucial consideration. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment for ZIP code 17061, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. It is especially pertinent for those contemplating moving to Millersburg.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a formal medical assessment, but rather a framework to evaluate the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical appointments and services. It considers the variety of transportation choices available, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all critical factors in managing a chronic condition like hypertension. Efficient transportation is paramount for consistent medication refills, regular check-ups, and timely access to emergency care.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Heart of the Matter**

For many Millersburg residents, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation. The borough's location necessitates reliance on roadways for reaching healthcare facilities. The primary artery is **US Route 11/15**, which provides north-south access. Driving south on US 11/15 offers access to Harrisburg, approximately 45 minutes away, where a wider array of medical specialists and hospitals, including UPMC Harrisburg and Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center, are available.

Traveling north on US 11/15 leads to Selinsgrove and Sunbury, roughly a 30-minute drive, offering access to hospitals like Evangelical Community Hospital. The condition of these roads, generally well-maintained, contributes positively to the "Hypertension Score," though traffic congestion during peak hours can add to travel times and potentially elevate stress levels, a factor that directly impacts blood pressure.

Local roads, such as **Market Street** and **Pine Street**, facilitate movement within Millersburg. These roads provide access to local pharmacies and primary care physicians. However, the limited availability of specialized medical services within the borough necessitates travel to larger cities, making the drive times on US 11/15 a critical component of healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Millersburg are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The **Capital Area Transit (CAT)** system, which serves the Harrisburg area, does not directly service Millersburg. This severely restricts the ability of individuals to rely on public transit for healthcare appointments, particularly those unable to drive or lacking access to a car. This limitation negatively impacts the "Hypertension Score."

The absence of a robust public transit system means that those who cannot drive, or who prefer not to, face significant barriers in accessing healthcare. This could lead to delayed appointments, missed medication refills, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes for individuals managing hypertension. The lack of ADA-accessible features on any potential transit options further exacerbates the difficulties for individuals with mobility impairments.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Millersburg area, though their availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This variability can make them an unreliable option for critical medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those on fixed incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **Medical Transportation Services (MTS)** and **First Transit** operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often accommodate individuals with mobility limitations and can be pre-booked, offering a more reliable alternative to ride-sharing. However, these services typically require advance scheduling and may not be readily available for urgent medical needs.

**The "Hypertension Score" Conclusion: Considerations for Millersburg Residents**

The "Hypertension Score" for Millersburg, PA (17061) is moderate. While the availability of roadways and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport options offer some degree of healthcare access, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on driving to reach specialized medical care present significant challenges, especially for individuals managing hypertension.

For those considering moving to Millersburg, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and access to healthcare is essential. Individuals without personal vehicles should carefully evaluate the availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. Those with hypertension should also consider the proximity of pharmacies for medication refills and the availability of primary care physicians within the borough.

The "Hypertension Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning. Residents should familiarize themselves with the various transportation options, establish relationships with local healthcare providers, and have a contingency plan for accessing medical care in case of emergencies. This proactive approach can help mitigate the challenges of healthcare access and ensure that residents of Millersburg can effectively manage their hypertension and maintain their overall well-being. The beauty of Millersburg can be fully enjoyed when healthcare access is thoughtfully addressed.