17062, Millerstown, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17062, Millerstown, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.24 percent of residents in 17062 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 19.03 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17062**

The quaint borough of Millerstown, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 17062, offers a tranquil setting, attracting those seeking respite from the urban clamor. However, the allure of small-town living necessitates a thorough examination of healthcare access, particularly for residents managing hypertension. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape, a crucial factor in determining the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. We’ll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in this rural community.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension is consistent access to medical care, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency services. The ability to reach these services quickly and reliably is paramount. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score," a qualitative assessment of the transportation environment, to help prospective and current residents understand the practicalities of healthcare access in Millerstown. This is particularly vital for those considering moving to Millerstown, as it directly impacts their quality of life.

**Drive Times: Navigating the Roads**

The most common mode of transportation in Millerstown is the personal vehicle. The drive to healthcare facilities, therefore, becomes a critical factor. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in surrounding towns and cities.

To reach UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, a major healthcare provider, residents typically embark on a journey of approximately 40 miles, primarily utilizing Route 322 East. This route is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor, particularly during peak hours. The drive time can range from 50 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Route 322 is a key transportation artery, connecting Millerstown to the larger healthcare network.

Another important destination is Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital in Camp Hill. This drive involves a combination of local roads and Route 11/15 South, covering approximately 35 miles. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. This route offers an alternative, potentially less congested, option compared to Route 322.

For more immediate needs, the nearest urgent care facilities are located in towns like Liverpool and Thompsontown. These facilities are typically within a 15- to 20-minute drive, providing a more convenient option for less critical health concerns. These shorter drives offer a sense of security, especially for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Millerstown and the surrounding areas are limited. This poses a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

The Capital Area Transit (CAT) system, which serves the Harrisburg metropolitan area, does not directly extend into Millerstown. Therefore, residents cannot rely on fixed-route buses to access healthcare facilities. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations or financial constraints.

While there is no direct public transit, it's crucial to acknowledge the role of community resources. Some local organizations may offer transportation assistance to medical appointments for seniors or individuals with disabilities. These services, however, are often limited and may require advance booking.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, providing a potential alternative to personal vehicles. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, making it a less reliable option for routine medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair accessibility. While these services are available, they can be expensive and require advance scheduling.

The availability of these services is crucial for individuals with hypertension, particularly those who are unable to drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The reliability and affordability of these options directly impact their ability to manage their condition effectively.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, the accessibility of transportation options is paramount. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems provide accessible services. However, the limited public transit options in Millerstown mean that ADA-compliant transportation is primarily reliant on ride-sharing services or medical transport providers.

The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles through ride-sharing services can be variable. Medical transport providers typically offer accessible vehicles, but the cost can be a significant factor. This highlights the need for a comprehensive assessment of accessibility when evaluating healthcare access in Millerstown.

**Hypertension Score: A Qualitative Assessment**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, a "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 17062 can be formulated. The score reflects the challenges and opportunities for individuals with hypertension to access healthcare services.

* **Drive Times:** Drive times to major healthcare facilities are moderate, with travel times ranging from 45 minutes to over an hour. This can be a significant burden, especially for frequent appointments.
* **Public Transit:** The absence of public transit severely limits healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Ride-sharing options are available but may be unreliable and costly. Medical transport services offer specialized assistance but are often expensive.
* **ADA Accessibility:** ADA-compliant transportation options are primarily limited to ride-sharing services and medical transport providers.

**Overall Assessment:**

The "Hypertension Score" for Millerstown, ZIP code 17062, would be considered moderate. While the area offers a tranquil environment, the limited transportation options present challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The reliance on personal vehicles and the absence of robust public transit create potential barriers to consistent healthcare access.

**Recommendations:**

* **Advocate for improved public transportation:** Explore the possibility of extending public transit routes or implementing a demand-response system to serve Millerstown.
* **Promote ride-sharing programs:** Encourage partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments.
* **Expand medical transport services:** Increase the availability and affordability of medical transport options, particularly for individuals with disabilities.
* **Enhance community support:** Strengthen community-based programs that provide transportation assistance to medical appointments.
* **Inform residents:** Ensure that residents are fully aware of the available transportation options and resources for healthcare access.

By addressing these issues, the community can improve healthcare access for residents with hypertension and enhance the overall quality of life for those moving to Millerstown. The success of managing hypertension relies heavily on consistent access to healthcare, and improving transportation infrastructure is critical to achieving this goal.