17834, Kulpmont, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17834, Kulpmont, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.16 percent of residents in 17834 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 13.81 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Kulpmont (ZIP Code 17834)

The journey to manage hypertension, a silent threat, is often intertwined with the challenges of transportation. For residents of Kulpmont, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17834), understanding the ease of access to healthcare is crucial for effective disease management. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access within and around this community. This is especially important for those considering moving to Kulpmont.

Kulpmont, nestled in Northumberland County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The town's relatively small size and rural setting shape the available transportation options. The "Hypertension Score" considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a nuanced view of the realities faced by individuals managing hypertension.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries of Healthcare**

For many Kulpmont residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. Understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is paramount. The closest major medical center is Geisinger Shamokin Area Community Hospital, approximately a 5-10 minute drive via **State Route 61**. This short distance offers relatively easy access for routine check-ups and urgent care needs.

However, specialized care often necessitates travel further afield. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a regional hub for advanced medical services, is roughly a 40-50 minute drive. The primary route is **Interstate 80** to **Route 11**, a potentially longer journey that can be impacted by traffic, especially during peak hours. This extended travel time presents a significant challenge for those with mobility limitations or experiencing acute hypertensive episodes.

Other healthcare options include hospitals and clinics in Mount Carmel and Sunbury. Mount Carmel is accessible within a 15-20 minute drive using **Route 901** and **Route 54**. Sunbury, offering a wider range of specialists, requires a 30-40 minute drive via **Route 61** and **Route 147**. The variability in drive times underscores the importance of considering individual health needs and the availability of specialized care when assessing healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Essential Option**

Public transportation in Kulpmont is limited but plays a vital role for those without personal vehicles. The Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA) provides bus services, offering a lifeline for individuals reliant on public transit. While specific routes and schedules are subject to change, the NCTA generally operates routes that connect Kulpmont to nearby towns and healthcare facilities.

The NCTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the frequency of service can be a limiting factor. Waiting times and the need for transfers can significantly extend travel times, impacting the ability to attend appointments promptly. The limited operational hours, particularly on weekends and evenings, further restrict access to healthcare services.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability and affordability can vary. Ride-sharing fares can be significantly higher than public transit, posing a financial burden for some residents. The reliability of ride-sharing, particularly during inclement weather or late at night, is another consideration.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While medical transport offers a valuable service, it can be expensive, and prior arrangements are often required. The availability of medical transport services might be limited depending on insurance coverage and the specific needs of the individual.

**The "Hypertension Score" and Moving to Kulpmont**

The "Hypertension Score" for Kulpmont, ZIP code 17834, is a complex calculation. While immediate access to primary care is relatively good, the limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the longer travel times to specialized care facilities present challenges. This score considers the following factors: drive times to various healthcare facilities, the frequency and accessibility of public transit, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options.

For individuals with hypertension considering moving to Kulpmont, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. This includes evaluating the availability of specialized care, the frequency of required appointments, and the ability to manage transportation costs. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a guide, highlighting the complexities of healthcare access and the importance of proactive planning.

The proximity to Geisinger Shamokin Area Community Hospital offers a degree of convenience, while the need for longer journeys to access specialized care necessitates careful consideration. Public transit, while limited, provides an essential lifeline for some residents. Ride-sharing and medical transport offer additional options, but their cost and availability should be carefully evaluated.

Ultimately, managing hypertension in Kulpmont requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves understanding the available transportation options, planning appointments strategically, and seeking support from healthcare providers and community resources. This "Hypertension Score" provides a valuable framework for navigating the healthcare landscape in Kulpmont, empowering residents to proactively manage their health and well-being.