17861, Paxtonville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17861, Paxtonville, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.02 percent of residents in 17861 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 29.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 28.71 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Paxtonville (ZIP Code 17861)

Paxtonville, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP Code 17861, presents a unique challenge in healthcare access, particularly for residents managing hypertension. This write-up explores the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach essential medical appointments, focusing on factors critical to hypertension management. We'll consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, culminating in a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the overall accessibility to healthcare. This information will be crucial for anyone considering moving to Paxtonville, especially those prioritizing convenient healthcare access.

The very nature of Paxtonville, a rural community, shapes the transportation dynamics. The primary mode of transportation is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The major roadways influencing healthcare access are Route 45, Route 104, and Route 35. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to seasonal weather conditions, especially during winter months. Drive times to healthcare facilities are thus critical.

The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in the larger towns and cities surrounding Paxtonville. The Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Route 45, is a major healthcare provider. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, reachable in about 35-45 minutes via Route 104 and then Route 11, offers specialized cardiology and nephrology services crucial for hypertension management. These drive times, though manageable for many, become significant considerations for individuals with mobility issues, those reliant on others for transportation, or those experiencing acute hypertensive crises.

Public transportation options are limited in Paxtonville, impacting **healthcare access**. The primary provider is the Susquehanna Valley Transportation Authority (SVTA). However, bus routes serving the area are infrequent and often lack direct connections to major medical facilities. The SVTA Route 10, for example, might offer a connection to Lewisburg, but the schedule necessitates careful planning and potentially lengthy wait times. ADA-accessible buses are available, which is a positive factor for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and route coverage present a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, especially for those with chronic conditions like hypertension, requiring regular appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can be inconsistent. Availability is often lower in rural areas compared to urban centers. Surge pricing during peak hours or times of increased demand, such as during inclement weather or emergencies, can make ride-sharing an expensive option, potentially deterring individuals from seeking timely medical attention. This is a key consideration for those relying on **transportation** other than personal vehicles.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility challenges or those requiring specialized assistance, offer a more targeted solution. Companies like MedStar and Liberty Transportation operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transport (NEMT). These services, while offering door-to-door assistance, often require advance booking and can be costly. The availability of these services is a crucial element in assessing **healthcare access** for individuals managing hypertension, especially those with limited mobility or without reliable access to other **transportation** options.

Evaluating the overall **transportation** landscape, we can formulate a "Hypertension Score" for Paxtonville. This score will reflect the ease with which residents can access healthcare facilities for hypertension management. The score considers the following factors: drive times to major healthcare providers, frequency and accessibility of public transit, reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services, and availability of medical transportation options.

Drive times to healthcare facilities receive a moderate rating. While the distances are not excessive, the reliance on personal vehicles and potential for delays due to weather conditions present challenges. The limited public transit options receive a low rating. The infrequent routes and potential for long wait times significantly hinder **healthcare access**. Ride-sharing services receive a moderate rating, acknowledging their availability but also recognizing their potential unreliability and cost. The availability of medical transportation services receives a moderate rating, as these services provide a crucial lifeline for some but can be expensive and require advance planning.

Considering these factors, we assign Paxtonville a preliminary "Hypertension Score" of 6 out of 10. This score suggests that while healthcare is accessible, it requires careful planning and potentially relies on personal **transportation**. Individuals with hypertension, especially those with mobility limitations or without reliable access to a vehicle, may face challenges in adhering to their prescribed treatment plans.

For anyone **moving to Paxtonville**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Investigating the availability of medical transportation services, exploring potential carpooling options, and familiarizing oneself with the SVTA schedule are essential steps. Understanding the potential for delays due to weather conditions and planning accordingly is also vital.

Improving **healthcare access** in Paxtonville requires a multifaceted approach. Enhancing public transit routes to include more frequent service and direct connections to medical facilities would significantly improve accessibility. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments could also alleviate the financial burden on patients. Promoting community-based programs that offer transportation assistance or support for individuals with chronic conditions could further enhance **healthcare access**.

In conclusion, Paxtonville offers a unique blend of rural charm and healthcare accessibility. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are manageable, the limited public transit options and the potential for high costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services present challenges, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. Prospective residents must carefully consider their **transportation** needs and healthcare requirements when evaluating the suitability of **moving to Paxtonville**. Addressing the identified shortcomings through community initiatives and policy changes can significantly improve the "Hypertension Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to essential healthcare services.