17304, Aspers, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17304, Aspers, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.25 percent of residents in 17304 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gettysburg Hospital with a distance of 10.85 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Aspers, PA (ZIP Code 17304)

The simple act of receiving essential healthcare, particularly for a chronic condition like hypertension, can be significantly impacted by the challenges of transportation. In Aspers, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17304), a rural community nestled within Adams County, assessing the ease of **healthcare access** necessitates a thorough examination of available **transportation** options. This "Hypertension Score" aims to provide a comprehensive overview, considering factors from drive times to public transit, ultimately informing residents and potential newcomers, especially those **moving to Aspers**, about the practical realities of managing their health.

The cornerstone of navigating Aspers and its surrounding areas is the personal vehicle. The landscape is predominantly rural, and the availability of alternative **transportation** is limited. For individuals with hypertension, prompt access to medication refills, regular check-ups, and potential emergency care is paramount. Drive times, therefore, become a critical determinant of the Hypertension Score.

The closest primary care physicians and specialists are primarily located in Gettysburg, PA, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via **US Route 30** and **PA Route 94**. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience increased traffic during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. For those needing specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, the journey might extend to York, PA, roughly a 45-60 minute drive, primarily utilizing **US Route 30** and the **US Route 15** connector. This longer commute demands careful planning, especially for those with mobility limitations or who experience fatigue as a symptom of hypertension.

Emergency medical services are provided by local volunteer fire companies and ambulance services. Response times can vary depending on the location within the ZIP code and the severity of the emergency. The nearest hospital, Gettysburg Hospital, is readily accessible via the routes mentioned above. The ability to quickly reach emergency care is a vital component of a good Hypertension Score.

Public transit options in Aspers are minimal. The rabbittransit, the regional public transit authority, offers limited service in Adams County. Route 15, for example, provides service to Gettysburg, but frequency is limited, and schedules may not align well with medical appointment times. The lack of frequent service and potential for long wait times significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, especially for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to drive.

The **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)** accessibility of the rabbittransit system is a crucial consideration. All rabbittransit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible routes and the convenience of connecting services remain challenges. The limited service areas and infrequent schedules can make it difficult for individuals with mobility limitations to access healthcare appointments reliably.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Gettysburg area, but their presence in Aspers itself is less consistent. Availability can fluctuate based on driver density and demand. Reliance on ride-sharing services for regular medical appointments can be expensive and unreliable, particularly in a rural area. This uncertainty negatively impacts the Hypertension Score.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies operate in the region, including Senior Life Solutions and various private ambulance services. These services often cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility or who cannot drive. However, these services come with a cost, and availability may be limited, particularly for non-emergency appointments. The reliance on these services can also add to the complexity of managing healthcare needs, affecting the overall Hypertension Score.

The physical environment of Aspers also plays a role. Sidewalks and pedestrian infrastructure are limited, particularly outside of the immediate town center. This lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure can make it difficult for individuals with hypertension to engage in regular physical activity, a crucial component of managing the condition. The absence of safe and accessible walking routes further diminishes the Hypertension Score.

The availability of pharmacies and medication access is another factor. Aspers has limited pharmacy options. Residents typically need to travel to Gettysburg or other nearby towns to fill prescriptions. This adds another layer of **transportation** complexity to the management of hypertension. The need to coordinate appointments, prescription refills, and **transportation** can create a significant burden on individuals.

The overall Hypertension Score for Aspers (ZIP code 17304) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the proximity to Gettysburg offers relatively quick access to primary care, the limitations in public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the potential reliance on costly medical **transportation** services create challenges. For individuals **moving to Aspers** or those already residing there, understanding these nuances is essential for making informed decisions about their healthcare management.

The score underscores the importance of careful planning, particularly for those with mobility limitations or who rely on others for **transportation**. It highlights the need for individuals to consider the practical realities of accessing healthcare services when choosing where to live. The score can also inform local initiatives aimed at improving **healthcare access** in the area, such as advocating for expanded public transit options, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, or supporting community-based programs that provide **transportation** assistance to those in need.

Ultimately, the Hypertension Score is more than just a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experience of managing a chronic condition in a rural environment. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, resourcefulness, and community support in ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive the timely and effective healthcare they deserve. The score serves as a reminder that the simple act of accessing healthcare can be a complex undertaking, and that **transportation** is a critical determinant of health outcomes, especially for those living with hypertension.