17309, Brogue, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17309, Brogue, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.15 percent of residents in 17309 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan York Hospital with a distance of 14.13 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17309**

Brogue, Pennsylvania, nestled within the bucolic embrace of ZIP code 17309, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and the realities of healthcare access. This analysis delves into the intricate dance between transportation and healthcare, crafting a "Hypertension Score" to gauge the ease with which residents can access essential medical services, specifically focusing on the challenges faced by individuals managing hypertension. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport solutions, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in this geographically diverse area.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a static number but a dynamic reflection of the barriers and facilitators encountered when seeking medical care. For individuals managing hypertension, consistent access to medication, regular check-ups, and specialist consultations are paramount. This analysis considers these needs, factoring in the practicalities of getting to appointments, the potential for delays, and the overall burden of transportation.

**Drive Time Dynamics**

For many Brogue residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are located in surrounding towns, necessitating a reliance on personal vehicles. The primary arteries connecting Brogue to these healthcare hubs are Pennsylvania Route 74 and Pennsylvania Route 425.

Traveling north on Route 74, residents can reach UPMC Memorial Hospital in York, a journey that typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This route provides relatively straightforward access, but the potential for delays during peak hours or due to inclement weather must be considered. The road quality is generally good, but the rural nature of the route means limited options for alternative routes in case of unexpected closures.

Heading east on Route 425, followed by a connection to Interstate 83, offers access to WellSpan York Hospital, a similar drive time of approximately 35 to 50 minutes. This route involves navigating a portion of I-83, which can experience heavier traffic, particularly during rush hour. The speed and efficiency of this route are counterbalanced by the potential for congestion.

Southbound travel on Route 74 leads to facilities in Maryland, such as the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, a drive that can take over an hour, potentially exceeding the recommended time for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis. The longer distances and potential for traffic congestion underscore the importance of timely access to care.

**Public Transit Realities**

Public transportation options in Brogue are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The York County Transportation Authority (YCTA) provides bus services, but these routes primarily serve the more populated areas of York County.

The availability of bus routes within the immediate vicinity of Brogue is sparse, with infrequent service and limited coverage. This scarcity of public transit options necessitates careful planning and potentially lengthy waits for those relying on this mode of transportation. ADA-accessible features are available on YCTA buses, but the limited route network restricts the overall utility of public transit for healthcare access.

The absence of readily available public transportation amplifies the challenges faced by individuals managing hypertension. The inability to easily access medical appointments can lead to missed check-ups, delayed medication refills, and a decline in overall health management. The lack of convenient public transit highlights the need for alternative solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader York County area, but their presence in Brogue is variable. The availability of these services depends on driver density, which is often lower in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for individuals with limited incomes.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance with transportation. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, ensuring that patients can safely and comfortably reach their medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of medical transport services can vary, and they may require advance booking.

The reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport services introduces additional complexities into the equation. The need to schedule rides in advance, the potential for delays, and the associated costs all contribute to the overall burden of healthcare access. These factors must be carefully considered when assessing the "Hypertension Score" for Brogue residents.

**The "Hypertension Score" and Brogue's Healthcare Landscape**

The "Hypertension Score" for Brogue, ZIP code 17309, is influenced by the interplay of these factors. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, the limited availability of public transit, and the variable presence of ride-sharing services create a complex environment for healthcare access.

The drive times to nearby hospitals and medical centers, while manageable, are subject to traffic and weather conditions. The scarcity of public transit options exacerbates the challenges faced by those without personal vehicles. The availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent, and the cost can be prohibitive for some. Medical transport services offer a viable solution for some, but their availability and cost must be carefully considered.

The "Hypertension Score" for Brogue reflects the need for residents to plan their transportation carefully, factor in potential delays, and consider the costs associated with accessing healthcare. For individuals managing hypertension, the challenges of transportation can add to the stress of managing their condition.

**Moving to Brogue: A Healthcare Access Perspective**

Individuals considering a move to Brogue, particularly those managing hypertension or other chronic conditions, should carefully assess the transportation landscape. The availability of reliable transportation, whether a personal vehicle, access to ride-sharing, or the ability to utilize medical transport services, is crucial.

Prospective residents should research the locations of healthcare providers, calculate potential drive times, and investigate the availability of public transit or ride-sharing services. Understanding the transportation dynamics is essential for ensuring consistent access to medical care.

The rural charm of Brogue is undeniable, but the realities of healthcare access must be carefully considered. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a reminder that the ease of getting to healthcare is a critical factor in maintaining overall health and well-being. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is essential for those seeking to make Brogue their home.