17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.94 percent of residents in 17888 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital with a distance of 13.86 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Wilburton, PA (ZIP Code 17888)

Wilburton, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Northumberland County, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare, particularly those managing hypertension. Assessing healthcare access involves a multifaceted understanding of transportation options, drive times, and the availability of specialized medical services. This "Hypertension Score" delves into these crucial factors, offering a comprehensive view for residents and prospective newcomers, especially those considering moving to Wilburton.

The primary challenge in ZIP Code 17888, when considering healthcare access, is the rural nature of the area. This translates to longer travel times and limited public transportation options. Understanding these limitations is critical for individuals managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent medical attention and readily available resources.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Arteries of Healthcare**

The backbone of transportation in Wilburton is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The major thoroughfare, **Route 61**, provides the most direct route to larger towns and medical facilities. However, traffic can be unpredictable, particularly during peak hours. Residents also rely on **Route 901**, a secondary road offering access to nearby communities.

For those seeking specialized care, the drive to larger hospitals in nearby towns becomes necessary. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a regional healthcare hub, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive via **Route 61**. This drive time, however, can be significantly impacted by traffic congestion, especially during the morning and evening commutes.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians are scattered throughout the region, potentially reducing drive times for routine checkups. However, accessing specialized cardiology or nephrology services often necessitates the journey to Danville or even further afield, extending travel times and increasing the burden on individuals managing hypertension.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Wilburton are severely limited. The absence of a comprehensive bus system poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. This is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive due to their medical condition.

While specific public transit routes and ADA features are not readily available in the immediate vicinity of Wilburton, it is essential to explore options in neighboring towns. This may involve contacting local transportation authorities or community service organizations to inquire about potential shuttle services or demand-response transportation programs that could serve residents of ZIP Code 17888.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are becoming increasingly prevalent in many areas. However, their availability in Wilburton and the surrounding rural areas is uncertain. The lack of readily available ride-share options could significantly impact access to healthcare, particularly for those without personal transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a vital alternative. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, catering to individuals with mobility challenges. Researching the availability and coverage areas of these services is crucial for residents of Wilburton.

**Medical Transport Brands and Options:**

* **Medical Transport Companies:** Explore local and regional medical transport providers. These companies often offer non-emergency transportation for medical appointments.
* **Ambulance Services:** Emergency ambulance services are available for critical medical needs.
* **Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Providers:** Research NEMT providers in the area, as they often offer specialized transportation for individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

Evaluating healthcare access in Wilburton requires considering several factors. The availability of primary care physicians within the community is crucial. The proximity of specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is equally important for individuals managing hypertension.

The presence of pharmacies and access to prescription medications are essential components of healthcare access. The availability of telehealth services can also play a significant role, providing remote consultations and monitoring for individuals with chronic conditions.

**The Hypertension Score: A Summary**

The "Hypertension Score" for Wilburton, PA (ZIP Code 17888) reflects the challenges and opportunities in accessing healthcare. The score is influenced by drive times, limited public transportation, the potential availability of ride-sharing services, and the need for medical transportation.

Individuals with hypertension require consistent access to medical care, including regular checkups, medication management, and specialized consultations. The rural nature of Wilburton necessitates careful planning and proactive measures to ensure access to these essential services.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Wilburton**

For individuals considering moving to Wilburton, particularly those managing hypertension, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. This includes:

* **Researching healthcare providers:** Identify primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies in the area.
* **Assessing transportation options:** Evaluate the feasibility of driving, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation.
* **Planning for emergencies:** Familiarize yourself with local emergency services and the location of the nearest hospitals.
* **Considering telehealth:** Explore the availability of telehealth services for remote consultations and monitoring.
* **Contacting local resources:** Reach out to community service organizations and transportation authorities for information and assistance.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure a smooth transition to Wilburton, allowing them to effectively manage their hypertension and maintain their overall well-being. The availability of transportation is critical, and understanding the limitations and available options is key to successful healthcare access. This is particularly important for those considering moving to Wilburton.