17324, Gardners, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17324, Gardners, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.56 percent of residents in 17324 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gettysburg Hospital with a distance of 14.43 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gardners, PA (ZIP Code 17324)

The journey to managing hypertension in Gardners, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17324), is more than just a medical one; it's a logistical puzzle. The availability of timely and convenient transportation significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those with chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up explores the various transportation options available, evaluating their suitability for individuals needing regular medical attention, and ultimately, contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease of navigating the healthcare landscape.

Gardners, a rural community nestled in Adams County, presents unique challenges. Limited public transportation and reliance on personal vehicles shape the healthcare access equation. The primary focus is on reaching medical facilities capable of managing hypertension, including primary care physicians, specialists (cardiologists, nephrologists), pharmacies, and diagnostic centers. The ability to attend appointments, pick up medications, and participate in necessary follow-up care is critical for effective hypertension management.

**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Care**

For many residents, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation. The major thoroughfares impacting healthcare access are Pennsylvania Route 34 (PA-34) and Pennsylvania Route 94 (PA-94). PA-34, running north-south, provides access to Carlisle and Gettysburg, while PA-94, heading east-west, connects to Hanover and York. These routes are generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor, especially during peak hours and in the vicinity of Gettysburg, a popular tourist destination.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary considerably. A primary care physician in Gardners might be a short drive, perhaps 5-10 minutes. However, specialized care often necessitates a longer journey. Reaching a cardiologist in Gettysburg could take 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. York, with its more extensive medical infrastructure, might require a 45-60 minute drive. These drive times, while manageable for some, can pose a significant barrier for individuals with mobility issues, those experiencing hypertension-related symptoms (chest pain, shortness of breath), or those lacking reliable transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 17324 are severely limited. The rabbittransit system, serving Adams County, offers some bus routes, but their frequency and coverage are sparse, particularly in rural areas like Gardners. Examining the rabbittransit schedule, one finds very few routes directly serving Gardners. The routes that do exist may not operate during evenings or weekends, further restricting healthcare access.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. Rabbittransit buses are equipped with features like ramps and lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited route availability and potential for long wait times between buses can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring frequent medical appointments. The lack of readily available public transit, therefore, significantly lowers the "Hypertension Score" for this area.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, their availability can be inconsistent, especially in rural areas. Surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand, such as when many people are seeking medical attention, can also make ride-sharing an expensive option.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedRide or Access Transportation may operate in the region. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and are equipped to handle individuals with mobility challenges. However, these services may require advance booking and can incur additional costs, further impacting the overall "Hypertension Score."

**Healthcare Access and the "Hypertension Score"**

The "Hypertension Score" for Gardners, PA (ZIP Code 17324), reflects the challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare, specifically concerning hypertension management. The score considers factors like drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing reliability, and the cost and accessibility of medical transportation services.

The score would be negatively impacted by the limited public transit options, the potential for long drive times to specialized care, and the reliance on personal vehicles. The cost of ride-sharing or medical transport services would also contribute to a lower score. The score would be somewhat mitigated by the presence of primary care physicians in Gardners and the availability of local pharmacies.

**Moving to Gardners: A Consideration for Healthcare Needs**

For individuals considering moving to Gardners, PA, or those already residing there, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial, especially if they have hypertension or other chronic health conditions. The availability of reliable and convenient transportation directly impacts the ability to manage their health effectively.

Before making a move, prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and capabilities. If they are unable to drive or have limited mobility, they should carefully evaluate the availability and cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation services. Proximity to healthcare facilities and the availability of local pharmacies should also be considered. The "Hypertension Score" for the area should be a factor in their decision-making process, reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing necessary medical care.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

Managing hypertension effectively requires consistent access to medical care, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and specialist appointments. The transportation infrastructure in Gardners, PA (ZIP Code 17324), presents challenges for individuals seeking to manage their hypertension. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential cost and availability issues of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to a lower "Hypertension Score." Residents must carefully consider these factors and proactively plan for their transportation needs to ensure they can access the healthcare they require. Understanding these limitations and proactively seeking solutions is critical for successful hypertension management in this rural community.