17846, Millville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17846, Millville, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.66 percent of residents in 17846 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital with a distance of 9.20 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Millville, PA (ZIP Code 17846)

Millville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Columbia County, offers a tranquil escape from the hustle of city life. For those considering a move to this charming community, especially individuals managing hypertension, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access for residents of ZIP code 17846, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment to help inform your decision. We will explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of how easily you can commute to healthcare.

The ability to quickly and reliably access healthcare is crucial for managing hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and timely interventions are vital for maintaining optimal health. The "Hypertension Score" considers the ease of getting to medical appointments, evaluating factors like travel time, transportation availability, and accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. This score will help you assess how well the transportation infrastructure in Millville supports the healthcare needs of its residents.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Healthcare Access**

The primary mode of transportation in Millville and the surrounding areas is the personal vehicle. The efficiency of healthcare access hinges on the road network. For residents of 17846, Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital, approximately 15 miles away, is a significant healthcare destination. The journey typically involves traveling south on PA-42, a well-maintained two-lane highway. Expect a drive time of around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This is a relatively short commute, making it feasible for regular appointments and emergencies.

Alternatively, accessing Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a more comprehensive facility, requires a longer drive. The route involves traveling south on PA-42 to PA-54, then east towards Danville. This trip covers approximately 25 miles and can take 35-45 minutes, again influenced by traffic. While manageable, the increased travel time necessitates careful planning for appointments and potential emergencies.

For local medical needs, there are several family practices and clinics within Millville itself. These are generally accessible within a short drive, often less than 10 minutes. This proximity is a significant advantage for routine check-ups, medication refills, and minor health concerns.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Columbia County are limited, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Columbia County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides bus service, but its routes and schedules may not adequately serve the healthcare needs of Millville residents. The CCTA does not have fixed routes directly serving Millville. Residents would need to arrange for transportation to a CCTA stop, which may involve walking or a short ride with a friend or family member.

The CCTA does offer ADA-accessible services, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access transportation. However, the limited frequency and coverage of the bus routes can significantly impact healthcare access for those relying on public transit. The lack of direct routes to major medical facilities, such as Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital or Geisinger Medical Center, poses a significant hurdle.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a presence in the Bloomsburg and Danville areas, but their availability in Millville is less consistent. The presence of these services can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments is therefore not recommended.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in the area. These services are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, but they typically require prior arrangements and may have associated costs. The availability of NEMT services is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves.

**The Hypertension Score: A Synthesis of Factors**

Considering the transportation landscape, the "Hypertension Score" for Millville, PA (ZIP code 17846) is moderate. The proximity of local medical facilities and the relatively short drive to Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital contribute positively. However, the limited public transit options and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services present challenges.

The score also reflects the importance of personal vehicles for healthcare access. Individuals without access to a car face significant obstacles in attending appointments and managing their health. The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, but it necessitates advance planning and coordination.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Millville: A Balanced Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Millville and managing hypertension, the transportation infrastructure requires careful consideration. While the drive times to major medical facilities are reasonable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate proactive planning.

Before making a move, prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and explore alternative options. Identifying reliable transportation for medical appointments is crucial. This may involve relying on family members, friends, or exploring the availability of NEMT services.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

To enhance healthcare access in Millville, several improvements are recommended. Expanding the CCTA’s routes to include direct service to medical facilities would significantly benefit residents. Promoting the availability and awareness of ride-sharing services and NEMT providers is also essential.

Furthermore, encouraging the establishment of telehealth services and home healthcare options could reduce the need for frequent travel. These measures would improve the "Hypertension Score" and make Millville a more accessible and supportive community for individuals managing hypertension.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Road to Wellness**

Living in Millville offers a peaceful and close-knit community. However, managing hypertension requires careful consideration of healthcare access. By understanding the transportation landscape, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. With proactive planning, access to personal vehicles, and the availability of medical transport services, residents of Millville can successfully navigate the road to wellness. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a reminder that while Millville offers a tranquil lifestyle, planning for transportation to healthcare is a crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy life.