17829, Hartleton, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17829, Hartleton, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.11 percent of residents in 17829 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 29.05 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hartleton (ZIP Code 17829)

The quiet embrace of Hartleton, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 17829 ZIP code, offers a tranquil lifestyle. Yet, for residents managing hypertension, the serenity can be disrupted by the complexities of healthcare access. This write-up explores the "Hypertension Score" – a personalized assessment of transportation options to healthcare facilities, vital for those considering a move to Hartleton or already residing there. It considers the realities of navigating the region, focusing on drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation solutions, all critical for managing this chronic condition.

The foundation of this score lies in understanding the transportation landscape. Hartleton is primarily served by personal vehicles. The primary artery, **Route 45**, snakes through the region, connecting Hartleton to larger towns like Mifflinburg and Lewisburg. Travel times are generally manageable, but the score must reflect peak hour congestion. The rural nature of the area also means longer distances to specialized medical care.

**Route 45** offers the most direct route to the Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, a major healthcare provider. A typical drive, under normal conditions, takes approximately 20-25 minutes. However, during rush hour (typically 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM), this can easily extend to 30-40 minutes. For those with hypertension, this extended travel time could exacerbate stress, potentially impacting blood pressure.

Another crucial road is **Buffalo Road**, providing access to Milton, Pennsylvania, and connecting to other regional routes. While offering alternative routes, travel times to healthcare facilities via Buffalo Road often mirror those of Route 45, with similar congestion patterns. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, also impacts the score. Icy conditions can significantly increase travel times and heighten the risk of accidents, a significant concern for individuals with hypertension.

Public transportation options are limited in Hartleton. The primary provider is the **Susquehanna Valley Transportation Authority (SVTA)**. While the SVTA offers bus routes, service frequency is limited, especially on weekends and evenings. The routes are designed to primarily serve the larger towns. The **Route 1** bus, for example, might provide some limited access to Lewisburg, but the schedule is infrequent and the route may not directly serve medical facilities.

The accessibility of these public transit routes for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. The SVTA is mandated to provide ADA-compliant services, including accessible buses and designated seating. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules can still pose challenges for those requiring frequent medical appointments. The “Hypertension Score” must account for the potential difficulty in coordinating public transit with the demands of healthcare appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, though their presence can be inconsistent. Availability is generally better in Lewisburg and Milton. The "Hypertension Score" must consider the potential for delays in securing a ride, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing also becomes a factor, as frequent medical appointments can quickly become expensive.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, provide another avenue. Brands like **CareRide** and **Medicaid-approved transport** are available. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with specialized vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services typically require advance booking and may have eligibility requirements. The "Hypertension Score" must evaluate the availability and accessibility of these services, considering factors like insurance coverage and waiting times.

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the proximity of urgent care facilities. While Hartleton itself may not have a dedicated urgent care center, facilities are located in nearby towns. The drive time to these facilities, particularly during off-peak hours, is a critical factor. The score must reflect the potential for rapid access to care in case of a hypertensive crisis.

For individuals considering moving to Hartleton, the "Hypertension Score" is a crucial tool. It allows prospective residents to assess the practical challenges of managing hypertension in this location. Factors like the availability of reliable transportation, the proximity of healthcare providers, and the accessibility of specialized services all contribute to the score. A lower score indicates greater ease of access, while a higher score highlights potential challenges.

The score is not static; it is dynamic. It should be updated regularly to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare provider availability, and the emergence of new transportation services. For instance, the expansion of ride-sharing services or the introduction of a new public transit route would positively impact the score. Conversely, road closures or reduced public transit frequency would negatively impact the score.

The "Hypertension Score" for Hartleton, Pennsylvania, is a multi-faceted assessment, considering the interplay of transportation and healthcare access. It serves as a valuable tool for residents and prospective residents, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs in this rural setting. The score is not simply about numbers; it is about understanding the realities of navigating the region, ensuring that individuals with hypertension can access the care they need, regardless of their transportation challenges. Moving to Hartleton should not mean sacrificing healthcare access.