17261, South Mountain, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17261, South Mountain, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 17261 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Waynesboro Hospital with a distance of 7.27 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17261**

The pursuit of optimal health often hinges on a critical factor: ease of access to healthcare. In the context of ZIP Code 17261, nestled in the embrace of South Mountain, this access is particularly vital, given the potential for residents to experience hypertension, a condition that demands regular monitoring and timely intervention. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within and around 17261, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities and assigning a "Hypertension Score" based on the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services.

The score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services. The ultimate goal is to paint a clear picture of the transportation challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension in this specific geographical area. This will help inform decisions about moving to South Mountain, ensuring prospective residents are fully aware of the realities of healthcare access.

ZIP Code 17261, encompassing the charming communities of Waynesboro and surrounding areas, presents a unique transportation profile. The mountainous terrain and rural character influence the available options. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are US Route 30, a major east-west thoroughfare, and Interstate 81, a north-south corridor. These highways serve as lifelines, connecting residents to regional healthcare providers.

Drive times to medical facilities are a crucial determinant of the Hypertension Score. The Waynesboro Hospital, a primary healthcare provider, is a central point of reference. From various locations within 17261, drive times to the hospital can vary significantly. Residents in the heart of Waynesboro typically experience a commute of less than 10 minutes. However, those residing in more remote areas, particularly those closer to the mountains, may face drive times exceeding 20 minutes, especially during peak traffic hours.

Traffic congestion, though generally moderate in this area, can still impact drive times, particularly on US Route 30 and near major intersections. The condition of local roads, including smaller roads like Mentzer Gap Road and Monterey Lane, also contributes to travel times. The Hypertension Score will reflect these variations, factoring in the potential delays caused by traffic and road conditions.

Public transportation plays a limited role in healthcare access within 17261. The primary public transit provider is the rabbittransit, offering bus routes that serve the Waynesboro area. While the routes, such as Route 1 and Route 2, provide some level of connectivity, they may not directly serve all healthcare facilities or operate with the frequency needed for individuals managing hypertension.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor in the evaluation. rabbittransit buses are equipped with ADA features, but the availability of accessible stops and the overall route coverage require careful consideration. The Hypertension Score will account for the limitations of public transit, particularly for individuals with mobility challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 17261 area, offering an alternative transportation option. The availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. Ride-sharing can be a convenient option for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

The Hypertension Score will incorporate the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, recognizing their potential role in healthcare access. Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another component of the evaluation. These services, often provided by companies like Senior Life and other local providers, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs.

The Hypertension Score will consider the availability, cost, and efficiency of these medical transportation services. The accessibility of pharmacies is also a significant factor. The ability to quickly and easily obtain prescribed medications is crucial for managing hypertension. The proximity of pharmacies to residents and the ease of access, whether by car, public transit, or other means, will be factored into the score.

The score will also consider the availability of pharmacies with drive-through services, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who prefer to avoid entering a store. The overall score will be a composite of all these factors, providing a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access within 17261.

The final Hypertension Score will be presented on a scale, reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare. A higher score will indicate better access, while a lower score will highlight potential challenges. This score will serve as a valuable tool for residents of 17261, as well as those considering moving to South Mountain, helping them make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The analysis considers the availability of specialty care, such as cardiology and endocrinology, which are essential for managing hypertension. The drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability to these specialty providers will be factored into the score. The Hypertension Score will also consider the availability of telehealth services, which can provide remote access to healthcare, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management.

Telehealth can be a valuable tool for individuals with hypertension, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits and improving healthcare access. The score will reflect the availability and accessibility of telehealth services within the 17261 area. The overall goal is to provide a realistic and practical assessment of healthcare access, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The Hypertension Score will be regularly updated to reflect any changes in transportation infrastructure, public transit routes, or the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. This will ensure that the score remains a relevant and reliable resource for the community. The final score will be a testament to the commitment to providing accessible healthcare for all residents of 17261, especially those managing the challenges of hypertension.