17763, Ralston, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17763, Ralston, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

27.94 percent of residents in 17763 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Williamsport with a distance of 17.90 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Ralston (ZIP Code 17763)

Ralston, Pennsylvania, nestled within the embrace of Lycoming County, presents a unique landscape for residents, particularly those managing hypertension. The ability to efficiently access healthcare, a crucial component of hypertension management, hinges significantly on the available transportation options. This write-up delves into the transportation infrastructure within ZIP Code 17763, assessing its impact on healthcare access and subsequently, constructing a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of obtaining necessary medical care.

The primary concern for residents of Ralston, especially those with mobility limitations or without personal vehicles, revolves around the limited public transportation infrastructure. Lycoming County does not boast a robust public transit system akin to metropolitan areas. This reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods creates significant challenges for individuals managing hypertension.

The most direct route for healthcare access from Ralston often involves a drive to Williamsport, the county seat, where the UPMC Williamsport Hospital and other medical facilities are located. This journey necessitates navigating a network of roads, with the primary arteries being Route 14 and Route 220. The drive time, depending on traffic and weather conditions, typically ranges from 30 to 45 minutes.

Route 14, a two-lane highway, winds its way through the scenic countryside, offering a more leisurely but potentially slower pace. Route 220, a more direct route, provides a faster connection to Williamsport. However, this highway experiences higher traffic volumes, especially during peak hours. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and safety, adding another layer of complexity for individuals with hypertension.

Public transportation options are limited, primarily consisting of the River Valley TransitValley Transit Authority (RVT). However, RVT's service area is predominantly focused on Williamsport and the surrounding communities. Service to Ralston is infrequent, and routes are not designed to specifically address the needs of individuals seeking healthcare. The lack of frequent service, coupled with the potential for multiple transfers, makes public transit a less viable option for many residents, especially those with hypertension who may require frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. Information regarding ADA features on specific RVT routes serving the vicinity of Ralston should be readily accessible to residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamsport area. However, their presence in Ralston is less reliable, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase the cost of transportation. This financial burden could potentially deter individuals from seeking necessary medical care. Medical transportation services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical trips, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like CareRide or MedRide might operate in the region, providing door-to-door transportation for medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services should be thoroughly investigated.

The "Hypertension Score" for Ralston, therefore, is significantly influenced by these transportation challenges. The score would reflect the following factors: the average drive time to healthcare facilities, the availability and frequency of public transportation, the reliability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility and affordability of medical transportation options.

The absence of a robust public transit system, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for long travel times all contribute to a lower score. The score would also consider the impact of seasonal weather conditions on road safety and travel times. The presence of readily available medical transportation services, coupled with reasonable costs, would positively influence the score.

For an individual with hypertension, the ability to consistently and reliably access healthcare is paramount. This includes regular check-ups, medication refills, and access to specialized medical services. The challenges posed by the transportation infrastructure in Ralston can create significant barriers to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments, impacting the overall management of the condition.

The implications of these transportation limitations extend beyond the individual. They also affect the community's overall health and well-being. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transportation options, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, and promoting the availability of medical transportation are all crucial steps.

For individuals considering moving to Ralston, or for current residents seeking to improve their healthcare access, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. This includes researching the specific routes and schedules of any available public transit, assessing the reliability and cost of ride-sharing services, and investigating the availability of medical transportation options.

The goal is to empower residents with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare and well-being. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in Ralston, ultimately promoting a healthier community. The ability to move to Ralston should be coupled with a clear understanding of the local transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access.