17881, Trevorton, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17881, Trevorton, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.65 percent of residents in 17881 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 26.42 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Trevorton (ZIP Code 17881)

The sun-drenched hills of Trevorton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17881), offer a tranquil escape. But for those managing hypertension, the serenity is intertwined with the critical need for regular healthcare. This write-up assesses the "Hypertension Score" for accessing medical care, specifically focusing on transportation challenges and opportunities. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability, painting a comprehensive picture for residents and those *moving to Trevorton*.

**Understanding the Hypertension Score:**

The Hypertension Score reflects the ease with which individuals in Trevorton can access essential healthcare services, particularly those crucial for managing high blood pressure. This score considers factors like proximity to medical facilities, transportation options, and the accessibility of these options for individuals with mobility limitations. A higher score indicates greater ease of access, signifying a more favorable environment for hypertension management.

**The Geographic Landscape and Healthcare Access:**

Trevorton's location, nestled in the heart of Northumberland County, presents both advantages and disadvantages regarding healthcare access. The town's relative isolation, surrounded by rolling hills and forests, means that residents often need to travel to larger towns and cities for specialized medical care. This necessitates a thorough understanding of available transportation options.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for many Trevorton residents. The most direct route to larger medical centers involves navigating a network of highways and local roads. For instance, a trip to Geisinger Shamokin Area Community Hospital, a critical healthcare provider, requires traversing **Route 125** and **Route 61**. This journey typically takes between 15 to 20 minutes, contingent on traffic conditions and the driver's speed.

Further afield, the drive to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a regional hub for specialized care, demands a more extended commute. The most common route involves taking **Route 125** to **Route 80 East**, then exiting onto **Route 11 South**. This journey can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic volume and the time of day.

For those seeking care in Sunbury, the county seat, the drive involves using **Route 125** and **Route 61**, usually resulting in a 30- to 40-minute drive. Understanding these drive times is crucial for planning medical appointments and ensuring timely access to care, especially in emergencies.

**Public Transit: A Limited Resource:**

Public transportation options in Trevorton are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those who do not drive or lack access to a vehicle. The Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA) provides bus services, but routes and schedules are limited, especially in rural areas.

The primary NCTA route serving Trevorton is **Route 10**, which connects the town to Shamokin and other neighboring communities. However, the frequency of this route is limited, with buses running primarily during weekday business hours. This can pose difficulties for those needing to attend appointments outside of these hours or on weekends.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. While NCTA strives to provide accessible services, it's essential to confirm the availability of accessible vehicles on specific routes and schedules when planning travel.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

The presence of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in Trevorton is limited. While availability might fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in response to demand, relying solely on these services for regular medical appointments is often unreliable.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, offer an alternative for individuals unable to drive or use public transportation. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, ensuring patients reach their appointments safely and on time. However, these services often come at a higher cost than other transportation options, and prior arrangements are usually required.

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

Local ambulance companies like AREA Ambulance and Medic 5 are the primary providers of medical transportation in the Trevorton area. These services are typically reserved for emergency situations or for patients requiring stretcher transport. For non-emergency medical transportation, residents might need to contact private medical transport providers, such as First Call Medical Transport or other regional providers.

**The Impact on the Hypertension Score:**

The limited transportation options significantly impact the Hypertension Score for Trevorton. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing services, creates barriers to healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive.

The long drive times to larger medical centers also add to the complexity. Patients with hypertension must plan their appointments meticulously, considering travel time and potential delays. This can lead to increased stress and anxiety, potentially exacerbating their condition.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Trevorton:**

For individuals considering *moving to Trevorton* and managing hypertension, careful consideration of transportation needs is paramount. Assess your ability to drive or have access to a vehicle. Research the availability of public transit and ride-sharing options. Explore the possibility of utilizing medical transportation services.

Prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities when choosing a residence. Consider the location of pharmacies for convenient medication refills. Establish a support network that can provide transportation assistance when needed.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating healthcare in Trevorton requires a proactive approach. While the community offers a tranquil lifestyle, the limited transportation options necessitate careful planning and resourcefulness. By understanding the drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of ride-share and medical transportation services, residents can effectively manage their hypertension and access the care they need. The Hypertension Score for Trevorton reflects the challenges and opportunities, highlighting the importance of informed decision-making for a healthy and fulfilling life.