17820, Catawissa, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17820, Catawissa, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.55 percent of residents in 17820 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital with a distance of 8.71 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17820**

The pursuit of accessible healthcare, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension, becomes a paramount consideration when contemplating a move. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 17820 (Catawissa, Pennsylvania), focusing on its impact on healthcare access, ultimately assigning a "Hypertension Score" to reflect the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical services. This score will consider drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a clear picture for prospective residents, helping them understand the practicalities of managing hypertension within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of our assessment rests on the understanding that timely access to healthcare is crucial for effective hypertension management. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and the ability to quickly seek care in emergencies are vital. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect the degree to which the transportation infrastructure supports these needs, considering factors like travel time, convenience, and reliability.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The primary mode of transportation in Catawissa, PA, is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The road network, while adequate, presents certain limitations. The most direct route to larger medical facilities, such as Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, involves navigating a combination of local roads and highways. The primary arteries are **Interstate 80 (I-80)**, **U.S. Route 11 (US-11)**, and **Pennsylvania Route 54 (PA-54)**.

Driving from Catawissa to Geisinger Medical Center, a journey of approximately 20 miles, typically takes between 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. The majority of the drive utilizes PA-54 East to US-11 South, then a short distance on I-80 East to the Danville exit. During peak hours, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, traffic congestion can extend these travel times.

Other healthcare providers, such as smaller clinics and specialist offices, are often accessible via shorter drives along PA-54, PA-42, and local roads. However, the availability of specialized medical care within Catawissa itself is limited, necessitating travel to larger towns and cities. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect this dependence on vehicular transportation and the potential for increased travel times.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation in Catawissa and the surrounding area is limited. The primary provider is the **Columbia County Transportation Authority (CCTA)**. The CCTA operates a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service, while offering a lifeline for those without personal vehicles, has limitations in terms of scheduling flexibility and potential travel times.

The CCTA does not have fixed-route bus services that directly connect Catawissa to major healthcare facilities. Riders would need to schedule a ride, often requiring transfers and potentially extended travel times. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. The CCTA does provide ADA-accessible vehicles, but the demand-response nature of the service can still pose challenges.

The "Hypertension Score" will reflect the limitations of public transit, acknowledging its role as a safety net but also its potential for longer travel times and reduced convenience compared to private vehicles. The lack of frequent, direct routes significantly impacts the overall score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Catawissa area, although their presence is not as robust as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services are available, primarily for individuals requiring non-emergency medical transportation. These services, such as **Medical Transportation Management (MTM)** and local private providers, offer door-to-door transportation, often with specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs that are not covered by all insurance plans.

The "Hypertension Score" will consider the availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, acknowledging their role in providing transportation options, particularly for those unable to drive. The potential for limited availability and cost implications will be factored into the overall assessment.

**The "Hypertension Score" and its Implications**

Based on the assessment of drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing/medical transport options, the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 17820 is **moderate to low**. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited availability of public transit and the potential for variable ride-sharing availability, presents challenges for individuals managing hypertension.

While the drive times to major healthcare facilities are manageable, the dependence on a personal vehicle and the potential for traffic delays can impact the convenience and reliability of accessing care. The limitations of public transit further exacerbate these challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Catawissa, PA, and managing hypertension, it is crucial to factor in the transportation considerations. The availability of a reliable vehicle is essential. Planning for appointments, considering potential traffic delays, and exploring ride-sharing or medical transport options are necessary steps.

The "Hypertension Score" is not intended to discourage potential residents, but rather to provide a realistic assessment of the transportation landscape and its implications for healthcare access. It highlights the importance of proactive planning and the need to consider the practicalities of managing a chronic condition within this specific geographic context. The score underscores the need for individuals to assess their personal transportation needs and preferences before making a move, ensuring they can maintain consistent and timely access to the healthcare services they require. The overall goal is to empower individuals with the information necessary to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their well-being.