17084, Reedsville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17084, Reedsville, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.51 percent of residents in 17084 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 4.70 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Reedsville, PA (ZIP Code 17084)

Reedsville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Mifflin County, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare, particularly those managing hypertension. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 17084, explores the complexities of transportation and its impact on healthcare access, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical services. This score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for anyone considering moving to Reedsville.

The foundation of this assessment is understanding the geography. Reedsville, a primarily rural community, is characterized by rolling hills and agricultural lands. This setting significantly influences transportation options. The primary roadways serving the area are Pennsylvania Route 322 (US-322), a major east-west thoroughfare, and Pennsylvania Route 655, a north-south artery. These routes are crucial for commuting and accessing healthcare facilities.

Drive times are a critical factor in the Hypertension Score. For residents of Reedsville, the nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are primarily located in Lewistown, approximately 10-15 minutes away via US-322. This drive time, while relatively short, can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours or inclement weather. Further afield, the larger medical centers in State College, about an hour's drive via US-322 and US-322 Business, offer a wider range of specialized services. The drive to State College, while providing access to more advanced care, presents a significant time commitment, potentially impacting the ability to attend frequent check-ups crucial for managing hypertension.

Public transportation options are limited in Reedsville. The Mifflin County Transit Authority (MCTA) provides bus services, but routes and schedules may not always align with the needs of individuals requiring regular medical appointments. The MCTA operates several routes, but their frequency and coverage in the Reedsville area are limited. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is an important consideration. While the MCTA strives to provide ADA-compliant services, the availability of accessible routes and features should be verified to ensure seamless transportation for all residents. The reliability of public transit in this rural environment is a significant factor in determining the Hypertension Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is less consistent than in more urban environments. The availability of these services can fluctuate depending on the time of day and demand. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for longer distances to State College, can also be a barrier for some residents. This limited availability impacts the overall score, as ride-sharing offers a potential alternative to driving or relying on public transit, especially for those unable to drive.

Medical transport services are another crucial component of the analysis. Several companies specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments, including ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers. These services are vital for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other forms of transportation. The availability and cost of these services directly influence the Hypertension Score.

The evaluation of these factors allows us to establish a preliminary Hypertension Score for Reedsville. The score will be determined using a scale that considers the following:

* **Drive Time to Nearest Healthcare Facility:** Shorter drive times contribute to a higher score.
* **Public Transit Availability and Accessibility:** Frequent, accessible, and reliable public transit enhances the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Service Availability:** Consistent and affordable ride-sharing options boost the score.
* **Medical Transport Service Availability and Cost:** Readily available and affordable medical transport services improve the score.

Based on the available information, the Hypertension Score for Reedsville, PA (ZIP Code 17084) is likely to be moderate. The relatively short drive to Lewistown provides good access to basic healthcare services. However, the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, coupled with the cost and availability of medical transport, could negatively impact the score. The distance to more specialized care in State College, although accessible, presents a significant time commitment, further influencing the score.

For individuals managing hypertension, this score highlights the importance of careful planning and proactive measures. Residents should familiarize themselves with the MCTA routes and schedules, explore ride-sharing options, and investigate the availability and cost of medical transport services. Building relationships with local healthcare providers, including pharmacies, can also enhance healthcare access.

Considering a move to Reedsville? This analysis emphasizes the need to prioritize healthcare access. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and ensure they have reliable means of reaching medical appointments. Understanding the limitations of public transit and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or medical transport services is crucial.

Furthermore, the availability of preventative care and chronic disease management programs within the local healthcare system should be considered. The presence of these programs can significantly improve the Hypertension Score by supporting proactive health management and reducing the need for frequent trips to healthcare facilities.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for Reedsville, PA, reflects the interplay of geographic constraints and limited transportation options. While the proximity to Lewistown offers reasonable access to basic healthcare, the overall score is tempered by the challenges associated with public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport. For individuals with hypertension, navigating these complexities requires careful planning, proactive engagement with healthcare providers, and a clear understanding of the available transportation resources. The score serves as a valuable tool for residents and prospective residents alike, providing insights into the healthcare landscape and empowering them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being in Reedsville.