17266, Walnut Bottom, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17266, Walnut Bottom, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.52 percent of residents in 17266 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Waynesboro Hospital with a distance of 24.47 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Walnut Bottom (ZIP Code 17266)

The heart of Franklin County, Pennsylvania, cradles the community of Walnut Bottom, ZIP code 17266. This area, a blend of rural charm and suburban convenience, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. Understanding the ease with which residents can reach medical care is crucial, especially when considering the potential impacts of this condition on quality of life. This write-up explores the transportation options available for residents of 17266 seeking healthcare, painting a picture of the "Hypertension Score" for this specific location.

The ability to swiftly and reliably reach a healthcare provider is paramount for individuals with hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication management, and prompt attention to any complications are vital components of effective treatment. The transportation infrastructure within and around Walnut Bottom directly influences this crucial aspect of healthcare access. Factors such as distance to medical facilities, the availability of public transit, and the affordability of transportation options all contribute to the overall "Hypertension Score."

For those who rely on personal vehicles, the primary arteries of transportation in and around Walnut Bottom are the highways and roads. Interstate 81 (I-81) forms a significant east-west corridor, providing relatively quick access to larger medical centers in nearby towns. US Route 11, also known as the "Lincoln Highway," runs parallel to I-81, offering a more local and scenic route. Pennsylvania Route 75, a north-south thoroughfare, connects Walnut Bottom to other communities and healthcare providers.

Drive times to medical facilities vary depending on the specific location within 17266 and the destination. A drive to Chambersburg Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 15-20 minutes via I-81 or US Route 11. Smaller clinics and physician offices located closer to Walnut Bottom might be accessible within a 5-10 minute drive. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact these drive times, potentially increasing the burden on individuals with hypertension who require timely medical attention.

Public transportation options in the area are limited, which can pose a challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The Franklin County Transit Authority (FCTA) provides bus services, but the routes and schedules may not be as frequent or extensive as in more urban areas. Route 101, for instance, might offer connections to Chambersburg, potentially linking residents to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes and the potential for longer travel times, including waiting periods, must be considered when assessing the "Hypertension Score."

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility limitations. The FCTA strives to provide accessible buses, but the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the public transit system can vary. For individuals with hypertension, the ability to comfortably and safely access transportation is essential.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative. These services can provide on-demand transportation to medical appointments, potentially filling gaps in public transit coverage. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, especially in less densely populated areas like Walnut Bottom. The reliability of these services, particularly during inclement weather or off-peak hours, is also a factor to consider.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. Companies like MedRide and First Transit Medical Transportation operate in the area, offering non-emergency medical transportation. These services can provide a valuable lifeline for individuals with hypertension, ensuring they can access the care they need.

Considering the various transportation options, the "Hypertension Score" for Walnut Bottom (17266) reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of major highways like I-81 provides relatively quick access to larger medical centers, the limited public transit options and reliance on personal vehicles can create challenges for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers additional avenues for healthcare access, but their reliability and cost must be factored in.

The decision to move to Walnut Bottom, or any community, should involve careful consideration of healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, this means evaluating the ease with which they can reach their healthcare providers. The "Hypertension Score" is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that reflects the interplay of various transportation factors.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for 17266 is influenced by several factors: the proximity of healthcare facilities, the reliability of personal vehicle transportation, the availability and accessibility of public transit, the cost and availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of specialized medical transportation options. Residents of Walnut Bottom should carefully assess these factors to ensure they can effectively manage their hypertension and receive the necessary medical care.

The "Hypertension Score" is a valuable tool for understanding healthcare access in Walnut Bottom. It highlights the importance of considering transportation infrastructure when evaluating the suitability of a community for individuals with hypertension. By understanding the available options and potential challenges, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and overall well-being. The ongoing efforts to improve public transit, expand ride-sharing services, and ensure the availability of medical transportation will further enhance the "Hypertension Score" and improve healthcare access for the residents of 17266.