17724, Canton, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17724, Canton, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.27 percent of residents in 17724 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Troy Community Hospital with a distance of 10.07 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Canton, PA (ZIP Code 17724)

Considering a move to the charming town of Canton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17724)? This picturesque locale offers a peaceful lifestyle, but before you pack your bags, especially if you manage hypertension, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, analyzing transportation options to medical facilities, crucial for consistent care. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in Canton.

The cornerstone of managing hypertension is regular medical attention. Consistent blood pressure monitoring, medication refills, and specialist appointments are vital. Your ability to reach these appointments safely and efficiently is directly linked to your health outcomes. This analysis will help you assess whether Canton offers the transportation infrastructure necessary to support your healthcare needs.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Wellness**

Canton's location in Bradford County dictates that personal vehicle transportation is often the primary mode of reaching healthcare. The major arteries are the US-15 and PA-414. To access the nearest hospitals and specialized care, you’ll likely be driving.

For routine check-ups and primary care, the Guthrie Canton Family Practice, located within Canton, is a significant asset. Drive times to this facility are generally minimal, assuming you reside within the town limits. This local convenience is a major plus, reducing stress and time constraints.

However, for specialized care or emergency situations, you'll need to consider travel to larger medical centers. The Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, PA, is a major regional hospital, offering comprehensive services. The drive to Sayre via US-15 is approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive, while manageable, requires planning and consideration of potential delays.

Further afield, the UPMC Williamsport Hospital, located in Williamsport, PA, provides a wider range of specialized care. The drive to Williamsport, primarily via US-15, is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. This longer commute necessitates careful consideration, particularly if frequent specialist visits are required.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Unfortunately, public transportation options in Canton and the surrounding areas are limited. This is a significant factor in the "Hypertension Score" assessment. The lack of readily available public transit presents challenges for individuals who do not drive or who prefer not to drive.

The Bradford County Transit Authority (BCTA) provides some services, but their routes and schedules are not extensive. Services may not directly serve all medical facilities or may have limited operating hours, making them less reliable for regular healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles and routes needs to be confirmed with BCTA directly. Individuals with mobility limitations must carefully assess the accessibility of public transit options.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may have a presence in the Canton area, but availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments requires careful planning and the potential for delays. Confirming service availability and pricing prior to your move is highly recommended.

Medical transport services are available for individuals who require assistance with transportation due to medical conditions. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking. Several medical transport providers serve the Canton area.

However, these services often come with associated costs. Researching available providers, their service areas, and pricing structures is crucial. Consider the frequency of your medical appointments and the associated transportation costs when evaluating your "Hypertension Score."

**The "Hypertension Score" in Canton**

Based on the analysis, the "Hypertension Score" for Canton, PA (17724), is moderately impacted. The advantages include the presence of a local primary care facility and the availability of medical transport options.

The limitations are the extended drive times to specialized care facilities, the limited public transit options, and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing services. These factors can create challenges for individuals managing hypertension, requiring careful planning and consideration.

**Recommendations for Individuals with Hypertension Considering Canton:**

1. **Prioritize Proximity:** If possible, prioritize housing within Canton to minimize travel time to the local primary care facility.
2. **Assess Driving Capabilities:** Evaluate your ability to drive safely and comfortably, especially for longer distances.
3. **Explore Medical Transport:** Research and establish relationships with medical transport providers to ensure reliable transportation for appointments.
4. **Plan Ahead:** Schedule appointments in advance and factor in travel time, traffic, and potential delays.
5. **Consult with Your Physician:** Discuss your healthcare needs and transportation concerns with your physician before moving.
6. **Investigate Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that your health insurance covers transportation services and the facilities you intend to utilize.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

Moving to Canton, PA, offers a tranquil lifestyle, but assessing healthcare access is critical, especially for individuals managing hypertension. While the local primary care facility is a significant advantage, the limited public transit and the drive times to specialized care require careful consideration. By proactively planning for transportation needs, individuals with hypertension can successfully navigate the healthcare landscape in Canton and maintain their well-being. This assessment is designed to provide a clear understanding of the transportation and healthcare dynamics in Canton, assisting you in making an informed decision about moving to this charming Pennsylvania town.