17814, Benton, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17814, Benton, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.80 percent of residents in 17814 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital with a distance of 14.83 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17814**

Embarking on a journey to assess healthcare access in the heart of Central Pennsylvania, ZIP Code 17814, centered around the borough of Benton, demands a comprehensive understanding of its transportation landscape. This evaluation is particularly crucial for individuals managing hypertension, where timely and reliable access to medical care is paramount. The "Hypertension Score" for this area considers the multifaceted nature of commuting, encompassing drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport. This analysis is especially relevant for those considering moving to Benton, PA, and seeking to understand the practicalities of healthcare access.

The primary artery for vehicular travel in and out of Benton is Route 487. This two-lane highway, winding through the rolling hills and farmlands, serves as the main conduit to larger towns and cities offering specialized medical services. Drive times to these destinations are a crucial factor in the Hypertension Score.

To reach Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a regional healthcare hub, the drive typically takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This journey primarily involves Route 487 south, connecting to Interstate 80 (I-80) east, and then to Route 11 south. The drive can be challenging during winter months.

Another essential healthcare destination is Bloomsburg Hospital, a shorter trip of roughly 20-30 minutes. This route utilizes Route 487 south, transitioning to Route 42 east, and then to Interstate 80 (I-80) west. This shorter commute offers a quicker access point for urgent care needs.

The Hypertension Score must account for the limited public transit options available in Benton. The lack of extensive public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, potentially exacerbating healthcare access issues.

Columbia County Transportation Authority (CCTA) offers limited bus services within Columbia County, but these routes do not directly serve Benton with high frequency or convenient schedules. The CCTA operates several routes, but their coverage is primarily focused on the more populated areas of Bloomsburg and Berwick. Passengers requiring ADA-accessible transportation should contact CCTA in advance to arrange for specialized services.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, although their presence is often limited compared to more urban environments. Availability may be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability can be a serious concern for individuals with hypertension who require consistent access to medical appointments.

Medical transport services provide a crucial safety net for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. Several companies offer specialized transportation for medical appointments, including non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

Evaluating the Hypertension Score in ZIP Code 17814 reveals several key considerations. The reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access is a significant factor. Drive times to specialized medical facilities, while manageable, can be a burden for individuals with chronic conditions. The scarcity of public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access, particularly for those without personal transportation.

The absence of a dedicated public transit system directly serving Benton significantly impacts the Hypertension Score. Individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to a personal vehicle face substantial barriers to accessing essential medical care. This situation necessitates reliance on family, friends, or potentially costly ride-sharing or medical transport services.

For those contemplating moving to Benton, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. Individuals with hypertension should carefully consider the practicality of accessing healthcare facilities, including the drive times, the availability of alternative transportation, and the potential impact of weather conditions.

The Hypertension Score must also consider the availability of local healthcare providers within Benton itself. While the borough may have primary care physicians and some basic medical services, specialized care often requires travel to larger medical centers. The distance and travel time to these specialized facilities are critical components of the overall score.

The quality of the roads and the potential for seasonal weather-related disruptions also influence the Hypertension Score. Winter weather, in particular, can significantly impact drive times and the reliability of transportation options. Residents must be prepared for potential delays and plan accordingly.

The availability of pharmacies and the ease of prescription refills are also relevant factors. Access to medications is a vital component of hypertension management. The proximity of pharmacies and the efficiency of prescription services contribute to the overall healthcare access picture.

The Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 17814 reflects a mixed picture. While the drive times to essential healthcare facilities are generally reasonable, the lack of public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for weather-related disruptions necessitate careful planning and preparation for individuals with hypertension.

The medical transport brands operating in the area, such as First Transit, and others, offer a valuable service, but their availability and cost must be factored into the overall assessment. These services often require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent medical needs.

The Hypertension Score should be viewed as a dynamic measure, subject to change based on evolving transportation infrastructure, the expansion of healthcare services, and the availability of new transportation options. Individuals considering moving to Benton should conduct a comprehensive assessment of their healthcare needs and the available transportation resources to ensure they can effectively manage their hypertension.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 17814 reflects a need for careful consideration of transportation logistics. While the area offers access to essential healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges, especially for individuals managing hypertension. Those considering moving to Benton should prioritize a thorough evaluation of their transportation needs and ensure they have a reliable plan for accessing healthcare services.