17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

25.56 percent of residents in 17768 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Troy Community Hospital with a distance of 16.95 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17768

The rural expanse of ZIP Code 17768, encompassing the unincorporated community of Shunk, Pennsylvania, presents a unique landscape for assessing **healthcare access**. Our focus: evaluating the challenges and opportunities related to **transportation** for individuals managing hypertension, a condition requiring regular medical attention and medication adherence. This analysis, culminating in a "Hypertension Score," considers the practical realities of **moving to Shunk** and navigating the area’s limited infrastructure.

The primary concern is the geographical isolation. Shunk is nestled amidst the rolling hills of Bradford County, far from major urban centers. This isolation directly impacts the time and effort required to reach essential medical services. Driving is the dominant mode of **transportation**, and the condition of the roads, along with the distances involved, significantly influences the patient experience.

The most direct route to significant healthcare facilities involves navigating the winding roads. Patients typically travel on Pennsylvania Route 414, a two-lane highway, for approximately 15 miles to reach the town of Canton. From Canton, they can access Guthrie Canton Medical Center, a critical access hospital offering primary care and some specialized services. The drive on Route 414, depending on traffic and weather conditions, can take anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes.

Further afield, the city of Williamsport, approximately 50 miles away, provides a broader range of healthcare options. This journey, however, is significantly more challenging. The most common route involves taking Route 414 south to U.S. Route 15, a limited-access highway. The trip can take up to an hour and a half, depending on traffic. This extended travel time, especially for individuals with hypertension who may experience complications or need frequent check-ups, poses a considerable barrier.

Public **transportation** options are severely limited. Bradford County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. The lack of readily available public transit is a significant impediment to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive due to their health condition or age. This absence underscores the need for alternative **transportation** solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are unlikely to be readily available in Shunk and the surrounding areas. Their presence is contingent on driver density, which is typically low in rural regions. This leaves patients dependent on personal vehicles, family members, or pre-arranged **transportation** options.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, offer a crucial lifeline. These services, however, are often reserved for emergencies or individuals requiring specialized assistance. The cost of medical transport can also be a significant burden, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of healthcare facilities in the region needs careful consideration. While hospitals and clinics are generally compliant with ADA regulations, ensuring accessible **transportation** to these facilities is equally important. The lack of public transit and the potential for long travel times in personal vehicles can create accessibility challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

The impact of seasonal weather conditions on **transportation** cannot be overlooked. Winter in Bradford County can be harsh, with heavy snowfall and icy roads. These conditions can make driving hazardous and further restrict access to healthcare. Individuals with hypertension, who may be more vulnerable to the effects of cold weather, face increased risks during the winter months.

The availability of telehealth services offers a potential solution to some of the **transportation** challenges. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on reliable internet access, which can be limited in rural areas.

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 17768 reflects the complex interplay of factors affecting **healthcare access**. It considers the following elements:

* **Drive Time to Healthcare Facilities:** The distance and travel time to the nearest hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.
* **Availability of Public Transportation:** The presence or absence of public bus routes and their frequency.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport options.
* **Road Conditions and Weather:** The impact of road conditions and seasonal weather on travel.
* **Telehealth Access:** The availability of reliable internet service for telehealth consultations.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The accessibility of healthcare facilities and **transportation** options for individuals with disabilities.

The final score would be based on a weighted average of these factors, reflecting the relative importance of each in determining **healthcare access** for individuals with hypertension. The lower the score, the better the access.

**Moving to Shunk** with hypertension requires careful consideration of these factors. Individuals should assess their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends for **transportation**, and the feasibility of utilizing medical transport services. They should also investigate the availability of telehealth services and ensure access to reliable internet.

The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for understanding the challenges and opportunities related to **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 17768. It highlights the need for innovative solutions, such as expanded telehealth services, improved **transportation** options, and community-based programs to support individuals with hypertension in this rural setting. The score provides a critical snapshot of the realities of **healthcare access** in this unique environment.