17837, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17837, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.61 percent of residents in 17837 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 15.47 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17837**

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In ZIP Code 17837, encompassing Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, this access is significantly shaped by the transportation infrastructure. Assessing the "Hypertension Score" – a metaphorical measure of ease in reaching medical care for those managing high blood pressure – necessitates a deep dive into the available transportation options. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility for residents, particularly those considering moving to Lewisburg.

The primary arteries for vehicular travel in and out of Lewisburg are U.S. Route 15 and Pennsylvania Route 45. Route 15, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides relatively quick access to larger medical centers in Williamsport to the north and Harrisburg to the south. However, heavy traffic, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times. Route 45, an east-west road, offers a more direct route to local medical facilities, including Evangelical Community Hospital, the primary healthcare provider in the area.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the Hypertension Score. Reaching Evangelical Community Hospital, located within Lewisburg, is generally a short drive, often under 10 minutes for most residents. This immediate proximity is a significant advantage, allowing for timely medical attention and reducing the stress associated with longer commutes. However, specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, might necessitate travel to larger hospitals in surrounding cities.

Williamsport, approximately 40 miles north, houses UPMC Williamsport, a regional medical center. The drive via Route 15 typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Harrisburg, about 80 miles south, offers access to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and other major hospitals. This journey, also primarily via Route 15, can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours. These longer drive times can pose challenges for individuals with hypertension, particularly during emergencies or for routine check-ups.

Public transportation in Lewisburg and the surrounding area presents a more limited option. The River Valley TransitValley Transit Authority (RVTA) provides bus services, but routes and schedules are not specifically designed for direct healthcare access. While some routes may pass near medical facilities, the frequency of service and potential for transfers can significantly increase travel times. ADA-accessible features are available on RVTA buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Lewisburg. However, their availability and affordability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be costly and unreliable, potentially impacting medication adherence and overall health management for individuals with hypertension. The availability of these services does offer a backup option when other transportation methods are unavailable.

Medical transport services play a crucial role for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other forms of transportation. Ambulance services are readily available for emergency situations. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers offer scheduled rides to medical appointments. These services are particularly important for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance.

The Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 17837 is a complex calculation, influenced by various factors. The presence of a local hospital, Evangelical Community Hospital, is a significant positive factor, providing readily available healthcare. The relatively short drive times for most residents to this facility contribute to a favorable score. However, the reliance on Route 15 for access to specialized care in larger cities presents a challenge.

The limited public transportation options and the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services negatively impact the score. The cost and reliability of these services can create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for individuals with lower incomes or those without access to personal vehicles. The availability of medical transport services, while essential for some, does not fully compensate for the limitations of other transportation options.

For individuals with hypertension, timely access to medical care is paramount. Regular check-ups, medication management, and prompt attention to health concerns are essential for controlling blood pressure and preventing complications. The transportation infrastructure in Lewisburg directly impacts these factors. The ease of access to Evangelical Community Hospital is a major advantage. However, the potential for longer travel times to specialized care, coupled with limited public transportation options, can present challenges.

When considering moving to Lewisburg, individuals with hypertension should carefully evaluate their transportation needs. The proximity to Evangelical Community Hospital is a significant benefit. However, they should also consider their reliance on public transportation, ride-sharing, or medical transport for specialized care or appointments outside of Lewisburg.

The overall Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 17837 is moderate. The availability of a local hospital and the relatively short drive times for most residents are positive factors. However, the limitations of public transportation and the potential for longer commutes to specialized care, coupled with the cost and reliability of ride-sharing services, create challenges.

Improving the Hypertension Score in Lewisburg could involve several initiatives. Enhancing public transportation routes and schedules to better serve medical facilities would be beneficial. Encouraging partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing services to offer discounted transportation options could also improve access. Increasing awareness of medical transport services and ensuring their availability to all residents would further improve healthcare access.

The health of a community is not solely determined by the quality of its medical facilities. Transportation plays a vital role in ensuring that residents can reach these facilities when needed. In ZIP Code 17837, the transportation landscape presents a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges. Understanding these factors is crucial for assessing healthcare access and promoting the well-being of all residents, especially those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.