17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 17730 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Muncy with a distance of 8.67 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dewart, PA (ZIP Code 17730)

The quiet community of Dewart, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 17730, offers a tranquil lifestyle, yet accessing essential healthcare services presents a unique set of transportation challenges. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of **transportation** options available for individuals managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent medical attention. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services to gauge the ease of **healthcare access** for residents, especially those potentially **moving to Dewart**.

The cornerstone of any healthcare journey is the ability to arrive at the doctor's office, clinic, or hospital. For residents of 17730, the primary mode of **transportation** is likely personal vehicles. The closest major medical facilities are in nearby towns. Driving to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a comprehensive facility, typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This route involves navigating US-11, a major thoroughfare, and then connecting to Interstate 80 East. The drive offers scenic views but can be impacted by seasonal weather, particularly during winter months, potentially extending travel times and adding to the stress for individuals with hypertension.

Another viable option is Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, approximately a 20-30 minute drive. This route primarily utilizes PA-405, a more rural road, and then connects to US-15. While generally less congested than the route to Danville, drivers should be aware of potential delays due to agricultural traffic or occasional roadwork. The shorter drive time to Lewisburg may be a significant factor for those seeking more frequent appointments or managing chronic conditions.

Public **transportation** options in the area are limited. The River Valley TransitValley Transit Authority (RVTA) provides some bus service, but its routes within and around 17730 are minimal. Residents might be able to utilize Route 32, which travels along US-11, but the frequency of service is limited, and the stops may not be conveniently located for all residents. Furthermore, the RVTA's website indicates ADA-accessible features on its buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can utilize the service. However, the infrequency of service and the potential for longer travel times make public transit a less-than-ideal option for many, particularly those with urgent medical needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The reliability of these services is crucial for individuals with hypertension who may need immediate access to medical care. Waiting times could be significant, especially during inclement weather or at night. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, potentially adding to the financial burden of managing a chronic condition.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to assist patients with healthcare appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies, such as LifeLine Ambulance and Geisinger's own non-emergency medical transport service, provide transportation for individuals who require assistance. These services typically offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, availability and cost can vary, and advance booking is often required, making them less suitable for emergency situations.

For individuals considering **moving to Dewart**, the **healthcare access** landscape is an important consideration. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare appointments necessitates careful planning. Proximity to major highways like US-11 and Interstate 80 is a benefit, but the potential for traffic delays and seasonal weather conditions should be factored in.

The "Hypertension Score" for 17730 reflects a moderate level of accessibility. While drive times to healthcare facilities are reasonable, the limitations of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The availability of medical transport services provides a valuable option for those who need it, but the need for advance booking and the associated costs should be considered.

The presence of major medical facilities in neighboring towns provides a degree of assurance for residents. However, the need to rely on personal vehicles, particularly for frequent appointments or emergency situations, underscores the importance of having a reliable vehicle and being prepared for potential delays.

For individuals managing hypertension, the ability to access healthcare promptly and consistently is paramount. The **transportation** options in 17730, while not ideal, offer a reasonable level of **healthcare access**. Careful planning, awareness of available resources, and a proactive approach to managing appointments are essential for ensuring optimal health outcomes. The community's relative isolation, however, means that those considering **moving to Dewart** must carefully weigh the benefits of a quiet lifestyle against the potential challenges of navigating the **transportation** landscape to maintain their **healthcare access**.