17742, Lairdsville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17742, Lairdsville, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.50 percent of residents in 17742 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Muncy with a distance of 9.99 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lairdsville, PA (ZIP Code 17742)

The quiet charm of Lairdsville, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP Code 17742, offers a peaceful existence. However, the idyllic setting presents a unique challenge when considering healthcare access, particularly for residents managing hypertension. This write-up explores the transportation landscape, assessing the ease with which individuals can access medical care, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the practical realities of seeking treatment in this rural community. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Lairdsville or currently residing there, especially those with health concerns.

The core of our analysis revolves around the availability and efficiency of transportation options. The ability to reach a doctor's appointment, pharmacy, or specialized care is paramount for effective hypertension management. A high "Hypertension Score" indicates readily available and convenient transportation, whereas a low score suggests significant barriers to healthcare access.

**Driving Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

For most Lairdsville residents, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation. The major arteries influencing healthcare access are Pennsylvania Route 442 and U.S. Route 220. Route 442 provides a direct connection to Muncy, approximately a 15-minute drive, where the UPMC Muncy hospital and several medical practices are located. This is a crucial lifeline for immediate medical needs.

Traveling further afield, U.S. Route 220 offers access to Williamsport, the county seat, roughly a 30-minute drive. Williamsport boasts a wider array of healthcare facilities, including UPMC Williamsport and numerous specialist clinics. The drive, while manageable, necessitates careful consideration of traffic, especially during peak hours. Smaller roads like Lairdsville Road and Mill Creek Road serve as connectors within the community, but their narrow lanes and winding paths can increase travel times.

The drive-times themselves are a significant factor. A longer commute inherently increases the time spent away from home and potentially impacts medication adherence, particularly for individuals with busy schedules or mobility limitations. The condition of the roads, especially during inclement weather, further complicates matters. Snow and ice can render roads treacherous, potentially delaying or preventing access to essential medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Lairdsville are limited. The Lycoming County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service throughout the county. However, the routes serving Lairdsville are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities.

The LCTA's routes often require transfers, adding to travel time and complexity. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is essential for individuals with disabilities. While the LCTA strives to provide accessible services, the rural nature of the area and the limited frequency of routes can still pose challenges. The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score" for those who cannot or choose not to drive.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Williamsport area, but their presence in Lairdsville is less consistent. The availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore not always feasible.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals needing assistance getting to and from appointments, offer a more reliable alternative. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, the cost of medical transportation can be a significant barrier for some residents.

**Evaluating the "Hypertension Score"**

Considering the transportation landscape in Lairdsville, the "Hypertension Score" is moderately impacted. While the proximity to Muncy and Williamsport offers access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services create some challenges.

The score would be higher if public transportation were more frequent and accessible, or if ride-sharing services were more readily available. The score is also influenced by the individual's health condition, mobility, and financial resources.

**Implications for Moving to Lairdsville**

For individuals considering moving to Lairdsville, particularly those managing hypertension, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. The ability to drive or have reliable access to a vehicle is essential. Understanding the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services is also vital.

Prospective residents should research the availability of medical transportation services and factor the associated costs into their budget. Additionally, they should consider the proximity of healthcare facilities and the potential travel times to appointments. Moving to Lairdsville requires a proactive approach to healthcare access, ensuring that transportation challenges do not impede the ability to manage their health effectively.

**Conclusion**

The "Hypertension Score" for Lairdsville, PA (ZIP Code 17742) reflects a community where healthcare access is primarily dependent on personal vehicles. While the drive-times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the limitations of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present potential challenges. For those managing hypertension, a well-defined transportation plan is essential. Careful consideration of these factors will allow residents to navigate the transportation landscape effectively, ensuring continued access to vital medical care and promoting optimal health outcomes. The ability to proactively address these transportation challenges will contribute significantly to their quality of life in this peaceful, yet geographically isolated, community.