17112, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17112, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.69 percent of residents in 17112 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute with a distance of 7.16 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17112**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially for individuals managing hypertension, requires a comprehensive understanding of transportation options. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 17112 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, evaluating the accessibility of medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a “Hypertension Score,” a metric reflecting the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare, particularly for those requiring regular monitoring and treatment. This is a critical factor for anyone moving to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

The foundation of this score is rooted in the practical realities of getting to a doctor's appointment. The ease of travel, the availability of options, and the potential for delays all contribute to the overall healthcare experience. A high score indicates readily available transportation, minimizing barriers to care, while a low score suggests significant challenges.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries for healthcare access in 17112 are Interstate 83 (I-83) and the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76). The proximity to these major highways offers swift access to hospitals and specialized clinics located throughout the Harrisburg metropolitan area. However, rush hour traffic, particularly on I-83 southbound towards downtown Harrisburg, can significantly impact drive times. Expect delays during weekday mornings and evenings.

Specific healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance include UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, located just off I-83, and Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center, accessible via the Carlisle Pike (US-11). Drive times to these facilities can vary dramatically. A trip to UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, typically a 10-minute drive during off-peak hours, could easily stretch to 20-30 minutes during peak congestion. Similarly, reaching Holy Spirit Medical Center, normally a 15-20 minute drive, might take upwards of 40 minutes during rush hour.

Surface streets such as 13th Street, 2nd Street, and Market Street provide alternative routes, but these are often congested and subject to traffic lights, adding to travel time. Navigating these roads requires patience and awareness of potential delays. The condition of the roads, including potholes and construction, can also impact travel times, particularly during winter months.

**Public Transit: Capital Area Transit (CAT)**

Capital Area Transit (CAT) provides public transportation within Harrisburg and the surrounding areas. Several bus routes serve 17112, offering varying levels of access to healthcare facilities. The primary routes include the "A" line, which travels along 2nd Street and provides access to downtown medical offices and UPMC Harrisburg Hospital. The "B" line, running along Market Street, offers access to various clinics and pharmacies.

CAT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, making them accessible to individuals with mobility impairments. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a significant limitation. Waiting times between buses can be lengthy, potentially increasing the overall travel time to appointments.

The CAT website and mobile app provide real-time tracking of buses, allowing riders to monitor arrival times and plan their journeys accordingly. This is a crucial tool for managing transportation, especially for individuals with hypertension who may need to adhere to strict appointment schedules. CAT offers a "paratransit" service, CAT Go, for individuals who are unable to use the fixed-route system due to a disability. This service requires advance booking and may have limited availability.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Harrisburg, providing a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services offer on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need for parking and reducing the stress of navigating traffic. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, such as Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare, are specifically designed to transport individuals to medical appointments. These services are often covered by insurance and offer door-to-door service, making them ideal for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. However, eligibility requirements and booking procedures vary, and advance planning is essential.

**Hypertension Score and Considerations**

Based on the analysis of transportation options in 17112, the Hypertension Score would be moderately favorable. While the availability of multiple transportation options is a positive aspect, several factors could negatively impact the score.

The reliance on personal vehicles is hampered by potential traffic congestion on I-83 and surface streets. Public transit, while accessible, suffers from frequency limitations, particularly during off-peak hours. Ride-sharing provides a convenient alternative but can be costly. Medical transport services offer a specialized solution, but eligibility requirements and booking procedures need to be considered.

For individuals managing hypertension, the ability to consistently and reliably reach healthcare appointments is paramount. Therefore, the following factors are crucial:

* **Proximity to Healthcare:** The distance to primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies.
* **Transportation Reliability:** The consistency and dependability of transportation options, including potential delays.
* **Cost:** The affordability of transportation, considering the frequency of appointments.
* **Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options for individuals with mobility limitations.
* **Appointment Scheduling:** The ability to schedule appointments that align with available transportation options.

**Moving to Harrisburg: A Healthcare Perspective**

For those considering moving to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, particularly those with hypertension or other chronic health conditions, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. This analysis of transportation options in 17112 highlights the need for careful planning.

Individuals should consider the proximity of their residence to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation, and the potential costs associated with each option. Researching the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies within the area is also crucial.

The Hypertension Score is a dynamic metric, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of transportation and healthcare access. Regular evaluation and adaptation are essential to ensure that individuals with hypertension can effectively manage their health and maintain a high quality of life in Harrisburg.