17347, Mount Wolf, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17347, Mount Wolf, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.46 percent of residents in 17347 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Hanover with a distance of 22.34 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17347

The quaint borough of Mount Wolf, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 17347, offers a tranquil residential setting. However, for residents managing hypertension, the ease of access to healthcare becomes a critical factor. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, evaluating the potential challenges and opportunities for those seeking timely medical attention, particularly concerning their hypertension management. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' reflecting the ease of commute to healthcare facilities, crucial for residents prioritizing their well-being.

The primary consideration in this analysis is the time required to reach essential healthcare services. This includes physician offices, pharmacies for medication refills, and emergency rooms for acute episodes. The transportation options available significantly impact this time, influencing the overall 'Hypertension Score.' A higher score indicates easier access, while a lower score reflects potential difficulties.

For residents with personal vehicles, the primary routes to access healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas involve a network of highways and local roads. Interstate 83 (I-83) serves as the major artery, providing relatively swift access to York, approximately 15 minutes south, and Harrisburg, about 30 minutes north. The drive time to UPMC Memorial Hospital in York, a major healthcare provider, is generally manageable. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend these times, potentially exacerbating the stress associated with hypertension.

Local roads like North George Street, East Main Street, and Church Street offer alternative routes, but they often involve slower speeds and numerous traffic signals. These roads can be useful for shorter trips to local pharmacies or smaller medical practices. However, for specialized care or emergency situations, the reliance on I-83 remains paramount. The condition of these roads, including potholes and general maintenance, can also impact drive times and the comfort of the journey, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those experiencing hypertension-related symptoms.

Public transportation, while available, presents more complex challenges. The York County Transportation Authority (YCTA) provides bus service within the region. However, the frequency of service and the routes available may not be ideal for healthcare access in Mount Wolf. The routes that might be relevant, if any, would require careful examination of schedules and stops. The YCTA website details routes and schedules.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor in evaluating public transit. All YCTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the walking distance from bus stops to medical facilities and the waiting times for buses can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing hypertension-related symptoms.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. Their availability in Mount Wolf and the surrounding areas is generally good, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. The convenience of ride-sharing is a significant advantage, especially for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments or pharmacy visits.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, are essential for individuals requiring assistance. These services are typically reserved for emergency situations or for those who need assistance getting to appointments. The response time of these services and the insurance coverage available are critical considerations.

The availability of pharmacies within Mount Wolf is a positive factor. The proximity to pharmacies for medication refills is crucial for managing hypertension effectively. However, the availability of specialized medical services, such as cardiology or endocrinology, may necessitate travel to larger medical centers in York or Harrisburg.

The 'Hypertension Score' for ZIP code 17347, therefore, is a nuanced assessment. While the availability of personal vehicles and ride-sharing services offers reasonable access to healthcare, the reliance on I-83 and the limitations of public transportation introduce potential challenges. The cost of ride-sharing and the potential for traffic delays can also impact the overall score.

For individuals considering moving to Mount Wolf and managing hypertension, the proximity to healthcare facilities, including the availability of pharmacies, is a positive aspect. However, it is essential to carefully evaluate the transportation options and their associated costs and time commitments. Understanding the potential challenges and planning for them can help ensure effective hypertension management.

The 'Hypertension Score' would ideally incorporate several factors: drive times to various healthcare facilities during peak and off-peak hours; the frequency and reliability of public transportation; the cost and availability of ride-sharing services; and the accessibility of pharmacies for medication refills. This comprehensive assessment would provide a clearer picture of the ease of access to healthcare for residents of Mount Wolf.

The score would also consider the availability of telehealth services, which can reduce the need for in-person visits. The ability to access telehealth appointments can significantly improve healthcare access for individuals with hypertension, particularly those with limited transportation options.

Furthermore, the score should consider the availability of community resources, such as support groups or educational programs related to hypertension management. These resources can play a crucial role in empowering individuals to take control of their health.

Finally, the 'Hypertension Score' should be dynamic, reflecting changes in transportation infrastructure, service availability, and healthcare options. Regular updates would ensure that the score remains relevant and useful for residents of Mount Wolf.

In conclusion, while Mount Wolf offers a desirable residential environment, careful consideration of transportation options and healthcare access is essential for individuals managing hypertension. The 'Hypertension Score' serves as a valuable tool for assessing the ease of commute to healthcare facilities, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The journey to healthcare, especially for those with hypertension, must be as smooth and stress-free as possible.