17235, Marion, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17235, Marion, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.75 percent of residents in 17235 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Chambersburg Hospital with a distance of 5.80 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 17235

ZIP Code 17235, encompassing the charming town of Marion, Pennsylvania, presents a unique landscape for residents managing hypertension. Assessing healthcare access requires a nuanced understanding of the transportation options available, as efficient movement is paramount for consistent medical care. This write-up, a 'Hypertension Score' analysis, delves into the intricacies of getting to healthcare appointments, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. It’s a crucial consideration for anyone considering moving to Marion, particularly those managing chronic conditions.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Marion is the proximity to well-regarded medical facilities. However, the practical reality of reaching these facilities hinges on transportation. For residents with hypertension, consistent access to medication refills, check-ups, and potential emergency care is non-negotiable. The following analysis provides a practical guide to navigating the transportation challenges and opportunities within and around ZIP Code 17235.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary mode of transportation in Marion is the personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to key healthcare providers is therefore essential. The main artery for travel is Interstate 81 (I-81), providing swift north-south access. Reaching Chambersburg Hospital, a significant healthcare provider, typically involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes via I-81 South. This drive time can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic, particularly during peak hours.

Another crucial route involves Pennsylvania Route 997 (PA-997), which offers a more direct, though potentially slower, route to Chambersburg. This road is often less congested than I-81, but it's also subject to local traffic and seasonal variations. For residents requiring specialized care in Harrisburg, a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via I-81 North is necessary. This longer journey underscores the importance of planning and considering potential delays.

Local roads, such as US Route 30 (US-30), provide access to various medical offices and pharmacies within Marion and surrounding areas. These routes are generally less time-consuming, but they can be subject to traffic lights and local congestion. Residents should factor in these variables when planning their healthcare transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transit options in ZIP Code 17235 are limited. The primary provider is the Rabbittransit system, which offers bus services within Franklin County. However, the routes and frequency of service are not extensive. Accessing healthcare facilities via public transit requires careful planning and may involve transfers.

Rabbittransit does provide some routes that serve Chambersburg, including stops near Chambersburg Hospital. However, the frequency of these routes might not align with all appointment schedules. Individuals with hypertension should investigate the specific route numbers and schedules to determine their feasibility.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit users. Rabbittransit is committed to ADA compliance, offering accessible buses and services. However, individuals should verify specific features, such as wheelchair accessibility and audio-visual announcements, before relying on public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Marion area. However, their availability and cost can vary depending on demand and time of day. Residents should factor in potential surge pricing and wait times when considering ride-sharing for healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or other needs. These services, such as American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers, provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). They are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles.

The availability and cost of medical transport services should be investigated. Factors to consider include insurance coverage, the type of transportation required (e.g., wheelchair-accessible), and the distance to the healthcare facility. These services are a vital resource for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit.

**The Hypertension Score in Action:**

The 'Hypertension Score' for ZIP Code 17235 is not a numerical value but rather a comprehensive assessment of transportation factors impacting healthcare access. It's a tool for individuals managing hypertension to evaluate the feasibility of residing in this area. The score considers drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options.

For individuals who can drive and have reliable transportation, the score is relatively favorable, with easy access to Chambersburg Hospital and other local healthcare providers. However, for those who rely on public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transport, the score is less favorable. The limited public transit options and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport can pose challenges.

**Moving to Marion with Hypertension:**

For those considering moving to Marion with hypertension, careful planning is essential. Before relocating, individuals should research the specific healthcare providers they intend to use, including their location and appointment scheduling processes. They should also assess their transportation needs and identify the most reliable and cost-effective options.

Considerations include:

* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Prioritize housing options that offer convenient access to healthcare facilities.
* **Transportation Alternatives:** Explore all available transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify insurance coverage for transportation services, particularly medical transport.
* **Appointment Scheduling:** Plan appointments strategically, considering traffic patterns and transportation schedules.
* **Support Network:** Build a support network of family, friends, or caregivers who can provide transportation assistance.

The 'Hypertension Score' write-up underscores the importance of transportation in healthcare access. While Marion offers a pleasant environment, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges for individuals managing hypertension. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this analysis, residents and prospective movers can make informed decisions and ensure they have reliable access to the healthcare they need. It is a reminder that the quality of life, especially when managing a health condition, is directly linked to the ability to get to where you need to be.