17764, Renovo, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17764, Renovo, Pennsylvania is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.37 percent of residents in 17764 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bucktail Medical Center with a distance of 0.27 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 17764

The quaint borough of Renovo, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania's Clinton County, presents a unique challenge for its residents: navigating the complex landscape of healthcare access, particularly for those managing hypertension. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of transportation options available to individuals residing in ZIP code 17764, aiming to paint a clear picture of the "Hypertension Score" – the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical appointments and services. This score considers factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transportation, all crucial elements in ensuring timely and consistent healthcare.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension is consistent access to medical care, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency services. The ability to reach healthcare providers quickly and reliably is paramount in managing this chronic condition. Residents of Renovo face geographical hurdles, with healthcare facilities often located outside the immediate borough. This necessitates a thorough examination of the available transportation infrastructure.

**Roads and Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For those with the means to drive, the primary routes to healthcare in the region involve navigating the winding roads of the Pennsylvania countryside. The most direct route to larger medical centers in Williamsport, approximately 45 miles away, is via **Route 120** east, which eventually merges with **Interstate 80**. This journey, under ideal conditions, can take around an hour, but factors such as traffic, weather, and road conditions can significantly impact this travel time.

Alternatively, residents can travel south on **Route 144** to reach Lock Haven, a smaller city with some healthcare facilities. This route, while shorter in distance, can be slower due to its winding nature and potential for seasonal closures. The drive to Lock Haven is approximately 30 miles and typically takes around 45 minutes. The condition of these roads, especially during winter months, is a critical consideration for individuals with hypertension, as delays or hazardous driving conditions can exacerbate stress and potentially impact health.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Renovo are limited. The primary provider is the Clinton County Transportation Authority (CCTA). The CCTA offers demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This system, while providing a lifeline for those without personal vehicles, presents challenges for individuals with hypertension. Scheduling appointments and coordinating transportation can be complex, particularly for those requiring frequent medical visits.

The CCTA does not have fixed-route services within Renovo or to nearby cities. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a key consideration. The CCTA vehicles are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair lifts and ramps. However, the need to book rides in advance can create barriers to spontaneous healthcare access, which is often necessary for managing hypertension.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not readily available in Renovo. This leaves a significant gap in transportation options, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This lack of readily available ride-sharing services further complicates healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available in the area. These services are essential for individuals requiring assistance with transportation due to mobility limitations or medical conditions. However, these services often require prior arrangements and can be costly.

**The Impact of Transportation on Healthcare Access**

The challenges in transportation directly impact the "Hypertension Score" for residents of 17764. The limited availability of transportation options, particularly public transit and ride-sharing, can create significant barriers to accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles or pre-scheduled services requires careful planning and can lead to missed appointments or delayed care.

The distance to healthcare facilities, coupled with the potential for unpredictable travel times due to weather or road conditions, can increase stress levels and potentially worsen hypertension symptoms. This is particularly concerning for individuals with uncontrolled hypertension, who require frequent medical monitoring and medication adjustments.

**Moving to Renovo: Considering Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Renovo, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is crucial. The limited transportation options and the distances to healthcare facilities should be carefully considered. Individuals with hypertension should evaluate their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the cost and availability of medical transportation services.

The "Hypertension Score" for Renovo is influenced by several factors. The distance to healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options, and the absence of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. However, the availability of medical transportation services and the ADA-compliant features of the CCTA vehicles offer some support.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

Improving healthcare access for residents of 17764 requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding the availability of public transit, potentially through fixed-route services or partnerships with ride-sharing companies, would significantly improve access. Promoting the availability of telehealth services could also reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups and medication management.

Investing in road maintenance and improvements, especially during winter months, is crucial for ensuring safe and reliable transportation. Educating residents about available transportation options, including medical transport services, is also essential.

**Conclusion: A Call for Action**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Renovo presents unique challenges for individuals with hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" reflects the need for improved transportation options and increased healthcare access. By addressing these challenges, the community can ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive the timely and consistent medical care they need to manage their health and live fulfilling lives. The future of healthcare access in Renovo depends on collaborative efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and support the health and well-being of its residents.