17778, Westport, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17778, Westport, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.52 percent of residents in 17778 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bucktail Medical Center with a distance of 10.04 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 17778

The journey to healthcare, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, is a complex equation. It involves not just the availability of medical professionals, but also the ease and reliability of **transportation** options. This write-up analyzes the **healthcare access** landscape in ZIP Code 17778, evaluating its impact on individuals seeking to control their blood pressure. Our analysis focuses on the practical realities of reaching medical appointments, considering factors like drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation services. This is especially relevant for those **moving to Westport** or considering a relocation to the area.

ZIP Code 17778, encompassing the town of Westport and surrounding areas, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing healthcare. The rural nature of the region necessitates a close examination of the available transportation infrastructure.

**Driving Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many residents, the primary mode of transport to healthcare facilities is the personal vehicle. Understanding drive times is critical. Interstate 80, a major east-west artery, is the primary highway influencing access to medical centers outside of Westport. Traveling east on I-80 can lead to larger hospitals and specialist clinics in cities like Williamsport, a drive of approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination.

Accessing healthcare facilities to the west of Westport involves the same I-80 corridor, but drive times are generally longer, potentially exceeding an hour to reach medical resources in areas further away. Local roads, such as Route 220 and Route 44, offer alternative routes, though they tend to be slower and more susceptible to weather-related delays. Route 220 provides a more direct route south towards Williamsport, but traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

Navigating these roads requires careful planning, especially for individuals with hypertension who may experience health concerns. The potential for delays, due to traffic, accidents, or weather, can add stress and anxiety, impacting blood pressure control.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transit options in ZIP Code 17778 are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The availability of bus services is minimal, with routes often infrequent and with limited service areas. This reality significantly impacts **healthcare access** for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

The existing bus routes may not directly serve all medical facilities, necessitating transfers or long walks. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these buses is a critical factor. While most public transit providers are mandated to provide ADA-compliant vehicles, the limited frequency of service and the potential for long wait times can still pose difficulties for individuals with mobility issues or other health concerns.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, providing an alternative **transportation** option. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of the ZIP code. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, offer a more specialized solution. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, often with trained personnel and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While they can be a valuable resource, they often come with higher costs and may require advance booking.

**Medical Transport Brands:** Several medical transport brands operate within the region, including local providers and national companies. The availability of these services and their coverage area can vary, so it is essential to research and identify the most suitable option based on individual needs and location.

**Assessing the Hypertension Score**

The **transportation** landscape in ZIP Code 17778 presents both strengths and weaknesses when it comes to **healthcare access** for individuals with hypertension. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing services create challenges.

The **Hypertension Score** for this ZIP code, considering the factors discussed, would be moderate. While the availability of driving routes to medical facilities is relatively good, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for delays can impact **healthcare access**. The limited public transit options and the cost and availability of alternative **transportation** services further contribute to the score.

**Implications for Moving to Westport**

For individuals **moving to Westport** or considering a relocation to the area, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is crucial. Those with hypertension should carefully evaluate their ability to drive or access alternative **transportation** options to ensure they can reliably attend medical appointments.

**Conclusion**

Navigating the **healthcare access** landscape in ZIP Code 17778 requires careful planning and consideration of available **transportation** resources. While the area offers some options, the challenges associated with **transportation** can impact blood pressure management. Understanding the drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of alternative services is crucial for individuals with hypertension. This information is vital for anyone **moving to Westport**, ensuring they can maintain consistent medical care and manage their health effectively.