17737, Hughesville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17737, Hughesville, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.25 percent of residents in 17737 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Muncy with a distance of 5.14 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hughesville, PA (ZIP Code 17737)

Hughesville, Pennsylvania, a charming borough nestled in Lycoming County, offers a tranquil lifestyle for its residents. However, when considering a move, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare becomes paramount. This write-up assesses the "Hypertension Score" for Hughesville (ZIP Code 17737), focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, crucial for effectively managing this chronic condition.

The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and specialists is a significant factor in controlling hypertension. Transportation challenges can lead to missed appointments, medication non-adherence, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. This analysis explores the available transportation infrastructure, including roadways, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, to gauge the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare resources.

Hughesville's primary roadways dictate the ease of movement. Pennsylvania Route 405, a north-south artery, serves as a critical link, connecting Hughesville to surrounding towns and healthcare facilities. Pennsylvania Route 220, running parallel to the Susquehanna River, provides another vital route, offering access to larger population centers and more comprehensive medical services. Interstate 180, although not directly intersecting Hughesville, is accessible via connecting roads, offering a faster route to regional healthcare hubs. These roads are generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor during peak hours, potentially impacting travel times to appointments.

Drive times to healthcare providers are a core component of the Hypertension Score. The nearest primary care physicians and pharmacies are generally located within Hughesville itself, making them easily accessible by car. However, for specialized care, residents often need to travel to Williamsport, approximately 20 miles away. The drive to UPMC Williamsport, a major regional hospital, typically takes around 30-45 minutes via PA-405 and I-180, depending on traffic conditions. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a more distant but comprehensive facility, is roughly a 1-hour and 15-minute drive via I-80. These drive times, while manageable, necessitate careful planning, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing acute hypertensive crises.

Public transportation options in Hughesville are limited. The Lycoming County Transportation Services (LCTS) provides demand-response transportation, offering door-to-door service within the county. However, LCTS operates on a reservation basis, requiring advance booking, which may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities. It is essential to confirm the availability of ADA-compliant transportation when scheduling appointments. While LCTS offers a vital service, its limitations highlight the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions for accessing healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a presence in the Williamsport area, but their availability in Hughesville can be inconsistent. The reliability of ride-sharing depends on driver availability, which can be particularly challenging during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. For residents without access to a personal vehicle, ride-sharing can offer a valuable, albeit potentially costly, alternative to public transit. However, individuals with hypertension should consider the potential delays and uncertainties associated with ride-sharing when planning medical appointments.

Medical transportation services provide specialized transport for individuals with medical needs. Several companies offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region, including ambulance services and private transportation providers. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, often with trained personnel and specialized equipment. While these services offer a valuable option for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance, they can be more expensive than other transportation alternatives. Researching and comparing prices and services of different medical transportation providers is recommended.

The availability of pharmacies is another critical aspect of healthcare access. Hughesville has local pharmacies offering prescription services. However, for specialized medications or compounding services, residents may need to travel to pharmacies in Williamsport. The drive times to pharmacies in Williamsport are generally similar to those for physician appointments, requiring careful planning to ensure timely medication refills.

Healthcare access is not solely about physical transportation; it also encompasses the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth offers a convenient way to consult with healthcare providers remotely, particularly for routine follow-up appointments or medication management. The availability of reliable internet access in Hughesville is crucial for utilizing telehealth services. Residents with limited internet access may face challenges in accessing these services, potentially impacting their ability to manage their hypertension effectively.

When moving to Hughesville, individuals with hypertension should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare access. While the borough offers a peaceful environment, the limited public transit options and reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing necessitate proactive planning. Consider the proximity of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and specialists. Evaluate the reliability and cost-effectiveness of available transportation options. Ensure that the selected housing location provides convenient access to essential services.

The Hypertension Score for Hughesville, considering the transportation infrastructure and healthcare resources, is moderately favorable. The availability of local healthcare providers and pharmacies within the borough enhances accessibility. However, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing for specialized care and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning and consideration of individual needs. The availability of telehealth services can mitigate some transportation challenges, but reliable internet access is essential.

In conclusion, while Hughesville offers a desirable quality of life, individuals with hypertension must proactively address transportation and healthcare access concerns. By carefully evaluating the available options, planning appointments strategically, and considering telehealth services, residents can effectively manage their condition and maintain their health. The "Hypertension Score" is a valuable tool for assessing the suitability of Hughesville for individuals managing this chronic condition, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive planning for a healthy and fulfilling life.