17102, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17102, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.46 percent of residents in 17102 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute with a distance of 1.12 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Harrisburg's 17102

The journey to managing hypertension in Harrisburg's 17102 ZIP code is a complex one, intricately woven with the threads of transportation and healthcare access. This analysis, framed as a "Hypertension Score" assessment, explores the accessibility of medical resources for residents, considering the varied transportation options available. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Harrisburg or seeking to optimize their healthcare management within the community.

The very fabric of Harrisburg's transportation landscape, a critical component of our "Hypertension Score," is defined by its roadways. Interstate 83, a major north-south artery, offers swift access to healthcare facilities located north and south of the city. However, rush hour congestion can significantly impact drive times, especially during the morning and evening commutes. Pennsylvania Route 22, another vital east-west corridor, provides access to hospitals and clinics, but its frequent traffic lights and potential for delays necessitate careful planning. City streets like Front Street and 2nd Street, while offering local access, can be prone to bottlenecks and limited parking, adding another layer of complexity to the transportation equation.

The "Hypertension Score" must also account for the realities of public transit. The Capital Area Transit (CAT) system provides bus service throughout the Harrisburg area, including routes that directly serve healthcare facilities. The 1, 2, 3, and 4 lines, for example, offer convenient access to UPMC Harrisburg Hospital and other medical centers. However, frequency and reliability can vary, particularly during evenings and weekends. The availability of ADA-compliant buses is a crucial element, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect the strengths and weaknesses of this public transit network.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another avenue for transportation, particularly for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle or prefer not to drive. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, offering a degree of flexibility and convenience. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can further exacerbate the financial burden. The "Hypertension Score" will weigh the benefits of ride-sharing against these potential drawbacks.

Specialized medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare, play a vital role in ensuring healthcare access for individuals with specific needs. These services often provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for those who require assistance getting to and from appointments. They may offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, making them an invaluable resource for individuals with mobility challenges. The "Hypertension Score" will acknowledge the critical role these services play in bridging the gap in healthcare access.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant factor in our "Hypertension Score." UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, a major medical center, is located in the heart of the city and is generally accessible within a 10-20 minute drive from most parts of the 17102 ZIP code, depending on traffic conditions. Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center, located slightly further north, may require a 15-30 minute drive, depending on the route taken and traffic volume. Smaller clinics and physician offices are scattered throughout the area, offering varying levels of accessibility based on their location and the transportation options available. The "Hypertension Score" will incorporate these drive-time estimates, considering the impact of traffic congestion on healthcare access.

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the availability of pharmacies within the 17102 ZIP code. Access to medication is a critical component of hypertension management, and the proximity of pharmacies, including chain pharmacies like CVS and Rite Aid, as well as independent pharmacies, is a crucial factor. The score will consider the ease of access to these pharmacies, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and the availability of home delivery services.

The "Hypertension Score" is not just about physical transportation; it also considers the digital landscape. Telehealth services, which allow patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, can significantly improve healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited transportation options. The availability of telehealth services offered by local healthcare providers will be factored into the "Hypertension Score."

The socioeconomic factors within the 17102 ZIP code also influence the "Hypertension Score." Income levels, access to health insurance, and the prevalence of chronic diseases like hypertension are all interconnected. The score will acknowledge the impact of these factors on healthcare access and the ability of residents to effectively manage their health.

The "Hypertension Score" is a dynamic tool, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of transportation and healthcare access in Harrisburg. It acknowledges that moving to Harrisburg involves navigating a complex web of factors that influence the ability of residents to manage their health. By considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, medical transportation, and the availability of pharmacies and telehealth services, this score provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare accessibility within the 17102 ZIP code. It underscores the importance of proactive planning and informed decision-making for individuals seeking to optimize their healthcare management within the community.