17740, Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17740, Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.27 percent of residents in 17740 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital with a distance of 1.29 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 17740 – Jersey Shore, PA

The journey to healthcare in Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17740) presents a complex equation. For residents managing hypertension, timely and reliable access to medical care is not just a convenience, but a critical necessity. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, assigning a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare services, considering the specific challenges of this rural community.

The Hypertension Score, calculated on a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 representing optimal access), considers factors like drive times, public transportation availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services. The score reflects the reality of moving to Jersey Shore and the potential impact on managing a chronic condition like hypertension.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Heart of the Matter**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The availability of a personal vehicle significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for those with hypertension who require regular check-ups and medication refills.

The most direct route to healthcare facilities, including UPMC Susquehanna Jersey Shore Hospital, often involves navigating the arteries of the region. Pennsylvania Route 220, a major north-south thoroughfare, serves as a vital link. Drive times to the hospital from various points within the 17740 ZIP code can vary considerably. Residents living in the heart of Jersey Shore may enjoy a relatively quick commute, perhaps a 5-10 minute drive.

However, those residing in more remote areas, such as along Pine Creek or in the surrounding townships, face longer travel times. Reaching the hospital from these locations could easily extend to 20-30 minutes, or even longer during peak traffic hours or inclement weather. The potential for delays, particularly during a hypertensive crisis, elevates the risk factor.

The condition of the roads also plays a significant role. Secondary roads, such as Route 44 or local township roads, may be subject to potholes, seasonal flooding, or ice and snow during winter months. These conditions can exacerbate travel times and increase the risk of accidents, further hindering healthcare access.

The Hypertension Score is reduced due to the reliance on personal vehicles and the variable drive times.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Jersey Shore are extremely limited. This presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive due to medical conditions, or are unable to afford the costs associated with owning and operating a car.

The River Valley TransitValley Transit (RVT) Authority, operating in Lycoming County, offers some limited bus service. However, the routes and schedules are often infrequent, with limited coverage within the 17740 ZIP code. The availability of RVT routes and schedules is a critical factor for those with hypertension.

RVT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including wheelchair lifts, which is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the infrequency of service and the limited route coverage significantly restrict their utility for healthcare access.

The lack of robust public transportation severely impacts the Hypertension Score.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have expanded their reach into many communities. However, their availability in Jersey Shore is inconsistent. The presence of these services is often dependent on driver availability and demand.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized assistance for individuals requiring transportation to medical appointments. These services are essential for those with mobility limitations or who require medical supervision during transport.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private companies. These services often require advance booking, and the cost can be substantial. The availability and affordability of these services are crucial for ensuring healthcare access, particularly for individuals with hypertension who may experience sudden health complications.

The presence of ride-share and medical transport services improves the Hypertension Score, but their limitations must be acknowledged.

**Healthcare Access: The Final Evaluation**

The Hypertension Score for healthcare access in 17740 is a reflection of the challenges and opportunities. The score considers all the factors discussed, including drive times, public transportation, ride-share availability, and medical transport services.

The score is a reflection of the reality of moving to Jersey Shore, and the potential impact on managing a chronic condition like hypertension.

The Hypertension Score for 17740 is a 4/10. This score reflects the significant challenges residents face in accessing healthcare, particularly those managing hypertension. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the variable availability of ride-share services contribute to this lower score. While medical transport services provide a crucial safety net, their cost and the need for advance booking further complicate the equation.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

Improving healthcare access in Jersey Shore requires a multi-pronged approach. Investing in public transportation, expanding ride-share services, and increasing the availability of affordable medical transport options are essential. Promoting telehealth services and home healthcare programs can also help bridge the gap.

For individuals considering moving to Jersey Shore, or for current residents managing hypertension, careful consideration of transportation options is crucial. Proactive planning, including establishing relationships with healthcare providers, arranging transportation in advance, and understanding the limitations of available services, is essential for managing the condition effectively.

The journey to healthcare in Jersey Shore is not always straightforward. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively addressing the challenges, residents can improve their healthcare access and live healthier lives.