17237, Mont Alto, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17237, Mont Alto, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.21 percent of residents in 17237 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Waynesboro Hospital with a distance of 6.38 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mont Alto (ZIP Code 17237)

The picturesque borough of Mont Alto, nestled within the embrace of Franklin County, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17237), offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, assessing healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, requires a nuanced understanding of local transportation options. This write-up, a 'Hypertension Score' analysis, examines the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking timely and reliable healthcare, crucial for managing this prevalent condition. Considering the importance of healthcare access for those moving to Mont Alto, we'll explore the intricate web of transportation options.

For those with hypertension, consistent access to medical appointments, medication refills, and emergency care is paramount. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape directly impacts health outcomes. We'll consider the drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options available to residents of 17237, painting a vivid picture of the realities of accessing healthcare.

The primary artery for vehicular travel in and out of Mont Alto is **Route 997**, a two-lane road that connects the borough to Chambersburg, the county seat, and Waynesboro. Driving to Chambersburg Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically takes 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Similarly, accessing WellSpan Waynesboro Hospital requires a drive of approximately 10-15 minutes, primarily via **Route 16**. These routes, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting the timely arrival of patients with urgent needs.

Further afield, **Interstate 81 (I-81)**, a major north-south thoroughfare, offers access to larger medical centers in Harrisburg (approximately a 1-hour drive) and Hagerstown, Maryland (about a 30-45 minute drive). However, the distance and potential for heavy traffic on I-81 necessitate careful planning, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing medical emergencies. **Route 30** also provides access to Gettysburg, a 45-minute drive, with its associated medical facilities.

Public transportation options in 17237 are limited. The **Franklin County Transit Authority (FCTA)** provides bus services, but routes and frequency are restricted, particularly in rural areas like Mont Alto. The FCTA's primary route serving the area is the **Route 101** which connects Mont Alto to Chambersburg. This route operates on a limited schedule, with fewer trips on weekends. Accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts, are available on FCTA buses, catering to the needs of riders with disabilities. However, the infrequent service and limited geographic coverage pose significant challenges for individuals relying on public transit for healthcare access. The bus routes are not designed to facilitate moving to Mont Alto.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Mont Alto area, offering a potentially more flexible transportation alternative. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Ride-sharing fares can also be a significant financial burden, especially for individuals with limited incomes or frequent medical appointments. The reliance on these services adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access, particularly for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

Medical transportation services provide specialized support for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance with medical appointments. Several providers, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation companies, operate in the area. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often including assistance with medical equipment and personal care. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and prior arrangements are typically required, making them less suitable for urgent or spontaneous medical needs.

The 'Hypertension Score' for Mont Alto, considering these factors, would reflect the challenges inherent in accessing healthcare. While the proximity to hospitals in Chambersburg and Waynesboro offers advantages, the limited public transportation options, the potential for traffic congestion on major roadways, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services create barriers. The score would emphasize the need for careful planning, particularly for individuals with hypertension.

For individuals considering moving to Mont Alto, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. Proximity to healthcare facilities is not the only consideration; the reliability and accessibility of transportation options are equally important. Those with hypertension should assess their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the financial feasibility of utilizing ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

Furthermore, the community could benefit from initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access. This includes advocating for increased public transportation services, particularly routes with more frequent service to medical facilities. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted fares for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Additionally, promoting awareness of available medical transportation services and providing assistance with accessing these resources could significantly improve healthcare access for residents of 17237.

In conclusion, while Mont Alto offers a desirable living environment, the transportation landscape presents challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The 'Hypertension Score' highlights the need for proactive planning, reliance on personal vehicles where possible, and a clear understanding of the available alternatives. Addressing these transportation challenges is critical to ensuring that residents of 17237 can access the timely and reliable healthcare they need to manage their condition effectively and live healthy lives. The quality of healthcare access directly impacts the quality of life for those moving to Mont Alto.