17878, Stillwater, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17878, Stillwater, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.40 percent of residents in 17878 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 34.53 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Stillwater (ZIP Code 17878)

Considering a move to the tranquil embrace of Stillwater, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17878)? Beyond the idyllic landscapes and close-knit community, understanding your healthcare access, particularly if you manage hypertension, is paramount. This write-up provides a comprehensive “Hypertension Score” assessment, focusing on transportation options and the ease of reaching essential medical services. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services to paint a clear picture of healthcare access in this rural haven.

The “Hypertension Score” is not a formal medical assessment. Instead, it serves as a practical guide, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare resources relevant to managing hypertension, such as physician offices, pharmacies, and diagnostic facilities. This score considers the practicalities of getting to these services from various locations within the ZIP code.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Cornerstone of Access**

For residents of Stillwater, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The ability to navigate the roadways efficiently is crucial for healthcare access. Primary routes include Pennsylvania Route 487 (PA-487), the main artery connecting Stillwater to surrounding towns and services. PA-487, a two-lane road, generally offers a smooth ride, but traffic can increase during peak hours, especially near Bloomsburg.

Driving to Bloomsburg, the closest town with a hospital (Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital) and a wider array of medical specialists, is a critical benchmark. The drive typically takes 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Stillwater. The route primarily utilizes PA-487, with potential connections to Interstate 80 (I-80) for more distant destinations.

Other essential destinations include pharmacies and primary care physician offices. The drive to these facilities within Bloomsburg or nearby towns like Benton usually requires a similar 15-25 minute drive via PA-487 and connecting local roads. Residents should factor in potential delays due to weather conditions, particularly during winter months.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options, Considerate Features**

Public transportation options in Stillwater are limited. Columbia County Transportation Authority (CCTA) offers bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, especially for rural areas. While CCTA does serve Bloomsburg, the frequency of buses serving Stillwater is minimal.

For individuals with mobility limitations, it's crucial to inquire about the availability of ADA-accessible features on CCTA buses. This includes wheelchair lifts and designated seating. The schedule may require careful planning, and the limited frequency can make it challenging for regular medical appointments.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bloomsburg area. However, their availability in Stillwater is less consistent. The service area is expanding, but reliance on ride-sharing might require pre-booking, especially for early morning appointments or late-night pharmacy runs.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services, are available in the event of emergencies. These services are crucial for individuals requiring immediate medical attention. However, for routine appointments, they might be less practical due to cost and scheduling complexities.

**Pharmacies and Healthcare Facilities: Proximity and Accessibility**

The availability of pharmacies is another critical factor. Several pharmacies are located in Bloomsburg, including chain pharmacies and independent options. The drive time to these pharmacies, as discussed earlier, is approximately 15-20 minutes.

Primary care physician offices are also concentrated in Bloomsburg. Finding a physician accepting new patients and offering convenient appointment times is essential. The presence of the Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital provides access to a range of specialists, including cardiologists and endocrinologists, crucial for hypertension management.

**Moving to Stillwater: A Balanced Perspective**

The “Hypertension Score” for Stillwater reflects a nuanced picture. While the area offers the serenity and community appeal many seek, healthcare access is primarily dependent on personal vehicles. Drive times to essential services are manageable, but public transportation options are limited. Ride-sharing availability is evolving, and medical transport services are available for emergencies.

For individuals managing hypertension, careful planning is necessary. This includes establishing a relationship with a primary care physician, arranging for medication refills, and understanding the transportation options available. Consider the distance to healthcare facilities, the reliability of personal transportation, and the availability of support networks.

**Enhancing Healthcare Access: Recommendations**

To improve healthcare access, residents should actively advocate for expanded public transportation services. This could involve supporting initiatives that increase bus frequency or establish demand-response transportation options.

Exploring the feasibility of carpooling with neighbors or friends can also be beneficial. This can reduce the burden of individual transportation and foster a sense of community support.

Finally, staying informed about local healthcare resources and services is essential. This includes knowing the locations of pharmacies, physician offices, and emergency services. Regular communication with healthcare providers and proactive planning will help ensure effective hypertension management.

**The "Hypertension Score" Summary**

The "Hypertension Score" for Stillwater, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17878) is moderate. While the drive times to essential healthcare services are generally reasonable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options require careful planning. Individuals managing hypertension should prioritize establishing a strong relationship with their healthcare providers, arranging for medication refills, and understanding the available transportation options. Careful consideration of these factors will ensure a successful and healthy transition to life in Stillwater.