Health Scores Near 17067, Myerstown, Pennsylvania
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The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17067, Myerstown, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
70.74 percent of residents in 17067 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Good Samaritan Hospital with a distance of 6.90 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 17067, Myerstown, Pennsylvania
| Hypertension Score | 70 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 22 |
| Provider Score | 94 |
| Hospital Score | 47 |
| Travel Score | 58 |
| Housholds with Cars (%) | 17067 | Myerstown | Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Cars | 4.16 | 4.16 | 5.04 |
| 1 Car | 10.43 | 10.43 | 21.45 |
| 2 Cars | 45.25 | 45.25 | 41.29 |
| 3 or More Cars | 40.15 | 40.15 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 17067, Myerstown, Pennsylvania
## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Myerstown (ZIP Code 17067)
The journey to managing hypertension, a silent threat to cardiovascular health, begins with understanding the landscape of healthcare access. For those residing in or considering moving to Myerstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17067), this understanding hinges on evaluating the available transportation options. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, examining the ease of access to medical care, a critical component of successful hypertension management. It considers various modes of **transportation**, from personal vehicles to public transit, and assesses their impact on reaching healthcare providers.
Myerstown, a charming borough nestled in Lebanon County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The area's relative rurality, coupled with the aging population, necessitates a careful evaluation of **healthcare access** options. The score considers factors such as drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing services. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive overview, enabling informed decisions about **moving to Myerstown** and managing hypertension effectively.
The foundation of this "Hypertension Score" lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians, cardiologists, and pharmacies within a reasonable timeframe. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and specialist consultations are essential for controlling hypertension. The score weighs the ease of reaching these resources, acknowledging that longer travel times can lead to appointment delays, medication adherence issues, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.
**Driving the Distance:**
For many residents, the personal vehicle is the primary mode of **transportation**. Myerstown's location offers relatively straightforward access to healthcare facilities via several key roadways. The primary thoroughfare is Pennsylvania Route 501, which runs directly through the borough. This road provides convenient access to local pharmacies and medical offices within Myerstown itself. Drive times to these facilities are generally short, often under 10 minutes, representing a positive aspect of the "Hypertension Score."
However, the availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, may necessitate travel outside of Myerstown. The closest major hospitals and cardiology practices are located in Lebanon, approximately a 15- to 20-minute drive via Route 422 East. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting appointment schedules. Further afield, the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, a renowned medical institution, is accessible via Route 72 North and then Interstate 81 North. This journey, however, can take up to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
The "Hypertension Score" acknowledges the importance of these drive times. While local access is generally good, the reliance on a personal vehicle and the potential for longer travel times to specialist care warrant consideration. The score reflects the need for careful planning and potentially, the use of alternative **transportation** options for those unable to drive or facing mobility limitations.
**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**
Public **transportation** options in Myerstown are limited, presenting a challenge for those who do not drive. The Lebanon Transit Authority (LTA) provides bus service within Lebanon County, but the routes serving Myerstown are infrequent. Route 10, for example, connects Myerstown to Lebanon, but the schedule may not align with medical appointment times.
The LTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequent service and the potential for longer travel times, due to the need for transfers or waiting periods, negatively impact the "Hypertension Score." The lack of comprehensive public transit underscores the importance of exploring alternative **transportation** solutions for those who cannot drive.
The "Hypertension Score" considers the limited public transit options a significant factor. The infrequent service and potential for lengthy travel times can create barriers to **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those who rely on public **transportation**.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap:**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Myerstown area. These services can provide a convenient and flexible option for accessing healthcare appointments. However, their availability and cost can vary, and they may not be readily available during all hours or in all parts of the borough.
Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by MedRide and Liberty Medical Transport, are also available. These services specialize in providing **transportation** for medical appointments, offering door-to-door service and assistance with mobility needs. While these services can be invaluable, they often come at a higher cost.
The "Hypertension Score" acknowledges the role of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services. While these options can improve **healthcare access**, their availability, cost, and potential for advance booking requirements are factored into the overall assessment.
**Pharmacy Access: A Crucial Element:**
Access to pharmacies for medication refills is a critical component of hypertension management. Myerstown has several local pharmacies, including CVS and Rite Aid, providing convenient access to essential medications. These pharmacies are generally accessible by car, and some offer home delivery services, further enhancing convenience.
The "Hypertension Score" recognizes the importance of pharmacy access. The presence of local pharmacies and the availability of home delivery options contribute positively to the overall score, facilitating medication adherence and improving **healthcare access**.
**Putting it All Together: The Hypertension Score:**
The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 17067 is a composite measure, weighing the various factors discussed above. It is not a single number, but rather a qualitative assessment that highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the **transportation** and **healthcare access** landscape.
**Strengths:**
* Relatively short drive times to local pharmacies and primary care physicians within Myerstown.
* Availability of ride-sharing services, providing flexibility for appointment scheduling.
* Presence of medical **transportation** services, catering to individuals with mobility needs.
**Weaknesses:**
* Limited public **transportation** options, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle.
* Potential for longer travel times to specialist care, such as cardiology, located in Lebanon or Hershey.
* Reliance on personal vehicles, potentially impacting individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive.
**Recommendations for Individuals with Hypertension:**
* Prioritize establishing a relationship with a local primary care physician and pharmacist.
* Explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services.
* Consider the location of specialist care and factor travel times into appointment scheduling.
* For those **moving to Myerstown**, carefully assess the **transportation** options and their impact on **healthcare access** before making a decision.
* Advocate for improved public **transportation** options within the community.
In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Myerstown (ZIP Code 17067) presents a mixed picture. While local access to primary care and pharmacies is generally good, the limitations of public **transportation** and the potential for longer travel times to specialist care require careful consideration. Individuals with hypertension should proactively plan for their **transportation** needs, exploring all available options to ensure consistent **healthcare access** and successful management of their condition. This evaluation is a crucial step for anyone considering **moving to Myerstown** and prioritizing their health.
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