17352, New Park, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17352, New Park, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.07 percent of residents in 17352 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Hanover with a distance of 25.89 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17352 (New Park, Pennsylvania)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In the rural expanse of ZIP code 17352, encompassing the charming borough of New Park, Pennsylvania, the journey to manage conditions like hypertension – high blood pressure – is a crucial consideration. This write-up delves into the complexities of **transportation** options, evaluating their impact on **healthcare access** and offering insights for residents and those **moving to New Park**. We'll assess the "Hypertension Score," a hypothetical measure reflecting the ease with which individuals with hypertension can reach essential medical services.

The cornerstone of this assessment lies in the practicalities of getting to and from medical appointments. For many in New Park, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of **transportation**. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in York, Pennsylvania, approximately 25 miles northeast. This journey typically involves navigating a network of roads.

From New Park, one would likely embark on the adventure via Pennsylvania Route 851, a scenic but often winding two-lane road. This route connects to Pennsylvania Route 74, a slightly more substantial thoroughfare that eventually merges with Interstate 83, the major artery leading into York. The drive, under ideal conditions, might take around 40-50 minutes. However, traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours, can significantly extend this travel time, potentially adding 15-20 minutes, a critical consideration for individuals managing hypertension.

The terrain itself poses a challenge. The rolling hills and rural nature of the area mean that public **transportation** options are limited. York County's public transit system, known as rabbittransit, offers some routes, but their reach into New Park is minimal.

The primary route serving the area is Route 12, which runs from York to Red Lion. However, it does not directly reach New Park. A connection to this route would require a drive to Red Lion or a surrounding town, adding another layer of complexity. Furthermore, the frequency of these buses is typically low, with limited service on weekends and evenings. The availability of ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and lifts, is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility limitations, but the sparse service makes reliance on public **transportation** a significant hurdle.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative, albeit one with its own set of drawbacks. Availability in rural areas can be unpredictable, and surge pricing during peak demand or inclement weather can make these options prohibitively expensive. The cost of a ride to York, potentially exceeding $50-$75 each way, could place a considerable financial burden on individuals with chronic conditions, especially those with limited incomes.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to cater to patients' needs, present another avenue. Brands like MedRide and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, they are typically more expensive than ride-sharing and require advance booking, making them less suitable for urgent or spontaneous medical needs.

The "Hypertension Score" for New Park, therefore, reflects a landscape of limited options. The reliance on personal vehicles, while offering flexibility, exposes residents to the vagaries of traffic and the potential for increased stress, a known trigger for elevated blood pressure. The sparse public **transportation** network presents a significant barrier, particularly for those without access to a car or with mobility limitations. Ride-sharing services, while available, come with cost and reliability concerns. Medical **transportation** services, while offering specialized assistance, add to the financial burden.

This situation has implications for **healthcare access**. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and timely intervention are crucial for managing hypertension. The difficulties in reaching medical facilities can lead to delayed care, missed appointments, and poorer health outcomes. This is especially concerning for older adults and individuals with limited financial resources, who may face the greatest challenges in accessing **transportation**.

For those considering **moving to New Park**, the accessibility of healthcare should be a primary consideration. Researching the availability of local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians and specialists, is essential. Assessing the **transportation** options available, factoring in potential costs and travel times, is equally important.

Furthermore, the community itself can play a vital role in improving **healthcare access**. Supporting initiatives that promote public **transportation** improvements, advocating for expanded ride-sharing services, and exploring partnerships with medical **transportation** providers can all contribute to a healthier environment.

The "Hypertension Score" for New Park, while not a quantifiable metric in this context, would undoubtedly be negatively impacted by the challenges of **transportation**. Improving **healthcare access** requires a multi-faceted approach, encompassing individual responsibility, community involvement, and potential policy changes. By acknowledging and addressing the limitations, the residents of New Park can strive towards a healthier future.