17080, Pillow, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17080, Pillow, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.59 percent of residents in 17080 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute with a distance of 25.06 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 17080

The pursuit of optimal health often hinges on something seemingly mundane: the ability to reach a doctor. In the context of ZIP Code 17080, which encompasses the charming borough of Pillow, Pennsylvania, assessing “healthcare access” requires a deep dive into the available "transportation" options. This is particularly crucial for individuals managing hypertension, a condition demanding consistent medical attention and medication adherence. This write-up will explore the landscape of healthcare access in Pillow, providing a "Hypertension Score" based on the ease of reaching medical facilities.

Pillow, nestled within the scenic landscapes of Dauphin County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting, while offering tranquility, can complicate healthcare access. The nearest major medical centers are located in Harrisburg, the state capital, and surrounding towns. The "Hypertension Score" will consider factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, ultimately painting a picture of the healthcare accessibility for residents.

**The Road to Wellness: Driving Times and Routes**

For many, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The most direct route to Harrisburg from Pillow involves utilizing Route 147 South, a winding but scenic road that eventually connects with I-81. Depending on traffic, the drive typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes. This route offers a relatively straightforward path to UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital and other medical facilities in the city.

Alternatively, residents can take Route 22 East, a more indirect route that eventually merges with I-83 South. This option might be preferred for those seeking access to facilities located on the east side of Harrisburg. However, this route can be subject to heavier traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours, potentially extending travel times significantly.

Reaching other nearby towns like Sunbury, which hosts Geisinger Medical Center, involves traveling north on Route 147. This drive, spanning approximately 40 to 50 minutes, offers another healthcare option, though it requires a longer commute. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can impact travel times and safety, a crucial consideration for individuals with hypertension.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in and around Pillow are unfortunately limited. The Capital Area Transit (CAT) system, which primarily serves the Harrisburg area, does not extend its services directly into Pillow. This severely restricts the ability of residents to rely on public transportation for medical appointments.

The lack of public transit presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles, including elderly individuals, those with disabilities, and individuals who cannot afford a car. This limitation necessitates reliance on other, often more expensive, transportation alternatives.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Harrisburg area. However, their presence in Pillow is less consistent, and availability might be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as Liberty Ambulance and other private companies, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. While offering a valuable service, medical transport is often the most expensive option, and its availability can be subject to scheduling constraints.

**The "Hypertension Score" and its Implications**

Based on the available transportation options, the "Hypertension Score" for residents of Pillow, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17080) is moderately low. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, combined with limited public transit and potentially unreliable ride-sharing, creates challenges for individuals managing hypertension.

The score reflects the potential difficulties in accessing regular medical check-ups, medication refills, and emergency care. The distance to medical facilities and the variability in travel times, due to traffic and weather, add further complexity. This can lead to delays in treatment, medication non-adherence, and increased risk of complications for individuals with hypertension.

**Moving to Pillow: A Consideration for Health**

For individuals considering "moving to Pillow," the healthcare access landscape should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. While the borough offers a peaceful and attractive living environment, the challenges associated with accessing healthcare must be carefully weighed.

Individuals with hypertension, or those at risk of developing it, should consider the potential limitations in transportation when evaluating the suitability of Pillow as a place to live. Proximity to medical facilities, the availability of reliable transportation, and the affordability of healthcare services are all critical factors to consider.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access in Pillow requires a multi-faceted approach. Advocating for expanded public transit options, including potential partnerships with CAT or other regional transportation providers, is crucial. Exploring the feasibility of subsidized ride-sharing programs for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and home healthcare options can help bridge the gap for individuals who face challenges in accessing traditional medical facilities. Increased awareness of available medical transport services and their affordability could also improve healthcare access for residents.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Pillow requires careful planning and consideration. While the beauty and tranquility of the area are undeniable, the limitations in transportation present challenges for individuals managing hypertension. By understanding the available options, advocating for improvements, and proactively planning for healthcare needs, residents can strive to maintain their health and well-being in this charming, yet geographically isolated, community. This "Hypertension Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not merely a convenience, but a fundamental necessity for a healthy and fulfilling life.