17094, Thompsontown, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17094, Thompsontown, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.38 percent of residents in 17094 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 17.53 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Thompsontown (ZIP Code 17094)

Considering a move to Thompsontown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17094)? This analysis explores the critical aspect of **healthcare access**, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension. We will delve into the **transportation** landscape, assessing drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability to determine a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can access essential medical care. This score will help prospective residents understand the practical realities of managing a chronic condition in this rural setting.

The foundation of our analysis lies in the understanding that consistent access to medical care is paramount for individuals with hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency visits necessitate a reliable **transportation** network. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect the degree to which the existing infrastructure supports these needs. We will evaluate the accessibility of primary care physicians, specialists (cardiologists, nephrologists), pharmacies, and emergency services.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Thompsontown, a charming community nestled in Juniata County, presents a unique **transportation** challenge. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Route 322, Route 75, and Route 35. These roadways, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly on Route 322, which serves as a major east-west corridor. The drive time to the nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities will significantly influence the "Hypertension Score."

For routine appointments and medication refills, residents will likely rely on local providers. The drive to the nearest primary care physician in Thompsontown itself is usually minimal. However, specialized care often necessitates travel to larger towns like Lewistown or Mifflintown. Driving to UPMC-Lewistown Hospital, a significant regional healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes via Route 322, depending on traffic. Similarly, accessing Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital involves a similar drive time.

Emergency situations demand immediate access to care. The drive time to the nearest emergency room is crucial. The same 20-30 minute drive to UPMC-Lewistown Hospital becomes critical in a medical emergency. The "Hypertension Score" will factor in the potential impact of these drive times on the health and well-being of individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis. The condition requires prompt intervention.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** options in Thompsontown are limited. Juniata County does offer a public transit system, the Juniata County Transit Authority (JCTA). However, service frequency and route coverage are limited, particularly for destinations outside of the immediate Thompsontown area. The JCTA operates primarily on demand, requiring advance booking. This system may not be ideal for individuals with hypertension who require frequent and timely access to medical care.

The JCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the reliance on pre-booking and the potential for longer travel times due to multiple stops may pose a challenge for those managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" will consider the practicality and reliability of the JCTA as a viable **transportation** alternative.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in Thompsontown is limited. While these services may be available, their frequency and reliability are significantly lower compared to more urban areas. This reliance on ride-sharing, especially during emergencies, is not guaranteed.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies, are available. These services are typically reserved for non-emergency medical transport to appointments. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, potentially creating a financial barrier to **healthcare access** for some individuals. The "Hypertension Score" will consider the affordability and accessibility of these specialized **transportation** options.

**Pharmacies and Medication Access:**

Access to pharmacies for medication refills is a crucial element of managing hypertension. Thompsontown has local pharmacies. The "Hypertension Score" will factor in the proximity and accessibility of these pharmacies. The ability to quickly and easily obtain necessary medications is critical for maintaining blood pressure control.

**The "Hypertension Score" Calculation:**

The "Hypertension Score" will be calculated based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above. Drive times to healthcare facilities will carry the most weight, followed by the availability and reliability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport. The accessibility of pharmacies and the availability of local medical providers will also be considered.

A higher score will indicate better **healthcare access**, while a lower score will suggest greater challenges. This score will provide prospective residents with a realistic assessment of the **transportation** landscape and its impact on managing hypertension in Thompsontown.

**Implications for Prospective Residents:**

For individuals considering **moving to Thompsontown** with a diagnosis of hypertension, a thorough understanding of the **transportation** landscape is essential. The "Hypertension Score" will serve as a valuable tool for making informed decisions about their **healthcare access**. Individuals may need to factor in longer travel times for specialized care, consider the potential limitations of public transit, and plan for the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical **transportation**.

Furthermore, the availability of local support networks, such as family, friends, or community organizations, can significantly impact the ability to manage hypertension effectively. These networks can provide assistance with **transportation** to appointments, medication reminders, and emotional support.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating **healthcare access** in Thompsontown requires careful consideration of the **transportation** infrastructure. The "Hypertension Score" will provide a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals managing hypertension in this rural setting. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual needs and preferences, taking into account the limitations of the **transportation** network and the potential impact on their overall health and well-being. Understanding these factors is vital for making an informed decision about **moving to Thompsontown** and ensuring successful management of hypertension. The goal is to empower individuals to make informed choices about their healthcare and ensure they can access the care they need to live healthy lives.