17076, Oakland Mills, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17076, Oakland Mills, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 17076 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 13.45 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Oakland Mills (ZIP Code 17076)

Oakland Mills, Pennsylvania, a quiet community nestled in the heart of Juniata County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up will explore the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP Code 17076, offering a "Hypertension Score" assessment based on the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, painting a vivid picture for those considering moving to Oakland Mills or already residing there.

Our assessment will focus on the practicalities of accessing necessary medical care, recognizing that consistent monitoring and treatment are crucial for managing hypertension. This is especially vital for residents who may have limited mobility, rely on public transportation, or face financial constraints. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access, contributing to a more informed decision-making process.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment based on the following factors: travel time, availability of transportation options, accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and cost considerations. We will evaluate each of these components to arrive at a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare access landscape in Oakland Mills.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The major roadways influencing healthcare access in Oakland Mills are Route 35, Route 75, and Route 322. Route 35 serves as a vital artery, connecting Oakland Mills to neighboring towns and healthcare facilities. Route 75 provides a north-south connection, while Route 322 offers access to larger population centers and more extensive medical resources.

The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in Lewistown, approximately a 20-to-30-minute drive via Route 35. This drive time is generally manageable, but it can be affected by traffic, particularly during peak hours or adverse weather conditions. For more specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, residents may need to travel to larger cities like Harrisburg, which is roughly a 1-hour-and-15-minute drive via Route 322. This longer commute necessitates careful planning and consideration for individuals with hypertension.

Access to primary care physicians is generally good within the immediate vicinity of Oakland Mills. However, the availability of specialists may require longer travel times. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of vehicle maintenance and the potential challenges for those without access to a car.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Oakland Mills are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals who do not drive. The Juniata County Transportation Authority (JCTA) provides bus service, but the routes and schedules may not be ideally suited for frequent medical appointments. The routes are often designed to serve the broader county, and the frequency of service may not meet the needs of individuals requiring regular healthcare visits.

The JCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, which is crucial for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the need to schedule rides in advance and the potential for longer travel times due to route configurations can be a deterrent. The lack of readily available public transportation significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score," particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence may be limited, and availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for individuals on fixed incomes or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a more specialized option for individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility impairments. However, the availability of NEMT providers and the associated costs should be carefully considered.

**Healthcare Access and the "Hypertension Score"**

The "Hypertension Score" for Oakland Mills, considering the transportation landscape, is moderate. While residents have access to primary care physicians and hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, the limitations in public transportation and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing services impact the overall score.

For individuals with hypertension, consistent access to medical care is paramount. The drive times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation can mitigate some of these challenges, but the cost and availability of these services must be carefully considered.

**Implications for Moving to Oakland Mills**

For individuals considering moving to Oakland Mills, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. Those who rely on public transportation or have limited mobility should carefully assess the availability and accessibility of medical care.

The proximity to Lewistown and the availability of primary care physicians in the area are positive factors. However, the lack of robust public transportation and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing services should be factored into the decision-making process.

**Conclusion**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Oakland Mills requires careful planning and consideration of transportation options. While the area offers access to essential medical care, the limitations in public transportation and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing services can impact healthcare access, particularly for individuals with hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" reflects the need for proactive planning and the importance of considering transportation as a critical factor in managing hypertension. Understanding the available resources and proactively addressing transportation challenges can significantly improve the quality of life for residents in Oakland Mills. The community's reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit underscores the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access and support the health and well-being of all residents.