17830, Herndon, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17830, Herndon, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.33 percent of residents in 17830 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 22.65 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Herndon, PA (ZIP Code 17830)

Considering a move to Herndon, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17830)? Assessing the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for managing conditions like hypertension, is crucial. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of transportation options available to residents, focusing on their impact on healthcare access and ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease with which individuals can reach necessary medical services.

Herndon, a small borough in Northumberland County, offers a unique blend of rural charm and proximity to larger towns. However, its limited public transportation infrastructure necessitates careful consideration of transportation options when evaluating healthcare access. The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and specialists is paramount for managing hypertension effectively.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Primary Route to Care**

For residents of Herndon, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation for healthcare access. The most direct route to larger medical facilities often involves navigating the network of state and local roads.

* **Route 147:** This primary artery connects Herndon to neighboring towns and offers access to healthcare facilities in Shamokin and Sunbury. Drive times to these locations can vary depending on traffic and time of day, but generally range from 15 to 30 minutes.
* **Route 225:** Another important road, Route 225, provides access to the north and south, potentially offering alternative routes to healthcare providers.
* **Local Roads:** Accessing local medical offices and pharmacies within Herndon itself is generally straightforward, with short drive times.

The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact drive times. Snow and ice during winter months, for example, may necessitate longer travel times and increase the risk of accidents.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Herndon are extremely limited. Northumberland County does offer some public transportation services, but they are not widely available within Herndon itself.

* **The Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA):** This agency provides demand-response transportation services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. These services are primarily designed for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The NCTA vehicles are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair lifts, to ensure accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations.
* **Route Availability:** The availability of NCTA routes in Herndon is limited, and residents may need to travel to a designated pickup point.
* **Route Numbers:** Specific route numbers are not readily available, as the service is primarily demand-response.

The lack of a robust public transportation system presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those who are unable to drive due to health conditions. This limitation directly impacts the "Hypertension Score," as it reduces the ease with which individuals can access healthcare appointments and medications.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the surrounding areas but may have limited availability within Herndon itself.

* **Availability and Cost:** The availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand. The cost of these services can also be a factor, especially for frequent trips to healthcare appointments.
* **Medical Transport:** Specialized medical transport services are available for individuals who require assistance with transportation due to medical conditions. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation and may include assistance with mobility and medical equipment.
* **Medical Transport Brands:** Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including private ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transportation providers.

The reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport can increase the cost and complexity of accessing healthcare.

**Healthcare Access and the "Hypertension Score"**

The "Hypertension Score" for Herndon, PA (ZIP code 17830) is influenced by the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The relatively short drive times to healthcare facilities in nearby towns are a positive factor.
* **Public Transportation:** The limited public transportation options significantly reduce the score.
* **Ride-Sharing/Medical Transport:** The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides some alternative, but the cost and potential unreliability of these services negatively impact the score.
* **Proximity of Medical Services:** The availability of local medical offices and pharmacies within Herndon contributes positively to the score.

Based on these factors, the "Hypertension Score" for Herndon, PA (ZIP code 17830) is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the limited public transportation options and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport pose challenges for individuals managing hypertension.

**Considerations for Moving to Herndon**

When considering a move to Herndon, PA, individuals with hypertension should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and access to healthcare.

* **Vehicle Ownership:** Owning a personal vehicle is highly recommended to ensure reliable access to medical services.
* **Proximity to Healthcare Providers:** Research the location of primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and hospitals in relation to the desired residence.
* **Emergency Planning:** Develop a plan for transportation in case of emergencies, including contacting local emergency services and identifying potential transportation assistance from family or friends.
* **Prescription Delivery:** Consider utilizing mail-order prescription services to ensure convenient access to medications.

**Conclusion**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Herndon, PA, requires careful consideration of transportation options. While the availability of healthcare facilities in nearby towns is a positive factor, the limited public transportation infrastructure and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport present challenges. By understanding these factors and planning accordingly, individuals with hypertension can successfully manage their condition and maintain their health while enjoying the unique benefits of living in Herndon. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing healthcare access and making informed decisions about moving to this charming community.