17120, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17120, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 17120 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Pinnacle Hospitals with a distance of 0.78 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 17120

Moving to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and specifically ZIP Code 17120, requires careful consideration of healthcare access, particularly if you are managing hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" analysis, evaluating the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities within and around this area, considering factors crucial for individuals with hypertension, such as drive times, public transit options, and alternative modes of transport.

ZIP Code 17120, encompassing parts of Harrisburg, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The score aims to illuminate the realities of getting to your appointments, refilling prescriptions, and seeking urgent care, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs in this new environment. Understanding the nuances of **transportation** options is vital for managing a chronic condition like hypertension, where consistent access to care is paramount.

The foundation of our score considers the primary arteries of **transportation** in the area. Interstate 83 (I-83) serves as a major north-south corridor, offering relatively swift access to healthcare facilities located along its route. The drive times, however, are contingent on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. Pennsylvania Route 22 (PA-22), a vital east-west artery, provides another route, but often experiences congestion. Local roads like Linglestown Road, Jonestown Road, and Paxton Street, while offering more direct access to some facilities, are subject to traffic lights and slower speeds.

Driving to healthcare appointments in ZIP Code 17120 presents a mixed bag. For those residing in the western portions of the ZIP code, access to UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, located just south of the area, is relatively straightforward, typically requiring a 10-15 minute drive via I-83 or Linglestown Road. However, residents in the eastern sections might face a longer commute, potentially exceeding 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center, located in nearby Camp Hill, could be reached in 15-20 minutes via I-83.

Public **transportation** options, provided by the Capital Area Transit (CAT), offer an alternative to driving, though they present limitations. Several bus routes traverse ZIP Code 17120, including routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. These routes connect to various healthcare facilities, including UPMC Harrisburg Hospital and other clinics. However, the frequency of these routes varies, and the overall travel time is significantly longer than driving. For example, a bus trip to UPMC Harrisburg Hospital from the eastern part of the ZIP code could take upwards of 45 minutes to an hour, factoring in potential transfers and wait times.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. CAT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the system with mobility limitations should be carefully evaluated. Individuals with hypertension, who may experience mobility issues or fatigue, should factor this into their **transportation** planning.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another option. They offer on-demand **transportation** to healthcare facilities, potentially mitigating the challenges of driving and public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, and availability might be limited during peak hours or in certain areas of the ZIP code. The reliability of these services for regular appointments should be carefully assessed.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, represent a specialized option. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility criteria. They can be a valuable resource for individuals with hypertension who require assistance with **transportation** due to mobility limitations or other health concerns.

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the proximity of pharmacies and urgent care facilities. Access to these services is crucial for managing hypertension. Several pharmacies, including CVS, Rite Aid, and Walgreens, are located within ZIP Code 17120, offering convenient access to medications and other healthcare supplies. The availability of urgent care facilities, such as UPMC Urgent Care and others, provides immediate care for non-life-threatening medical issues.

The **healthcare access** landscape in ZIP Code 17120 is influenced by several factors, including the concentration of healthcare providers, the availability of **transportation** options, and the overall socioeconomic characteristics of the area. The presence of UPMC Harrisburg Hospital and Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center provides a strong foundation for **healthcare access**. However, the reliance on private vehicles and the limitations of public transit can pose challenges for some residents.

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 17120 aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of **healthcare access** for individuals with hypertension. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The average time required to travel to major healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, considering traffic conditions.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and ADA-compliance of public transit routes, along with the overall travel time.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical **Transportation** Options:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** providers.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies and Urgent Care Facilities:** The ease of access to pharmacies for medication refills and urgent care facilities for immediate medical needs.
* **Overall Convenience:** A composite score reflecting the overall ease of navigating the **transportation** landscape to access healthcare services.

This analysis is not a definitive guide, but rather a starting point for understanding the complexities of **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 17120. Individuals with hypertension should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when making decisions about **moving to Harrisburg**. The score will help you assess the challenges and opportunities presented by the **transportation** options available to you.