17920, Aristes, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17920, Aristes, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.03 percent of residents in 17920 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 12.18 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Aristes, PA (ZIP Code 17920)

The quaint borough of Aristes, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania's coal region, offers a tranquil life. But for those managing hypertension, the serenity can be disrupted by the realities of accessing healthcare. This write-up explores the challenges and opportunities for residents of ZIP code 17920, focusing on the crucial link between transportation and healthcare access, ultimately informing a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of receiving timely medical attention.

Aristes, with its population of roughly 300, is a small community. This size presents both advantages and disadvantages when considering healthcare access. The close-knit nature can foster a supportive environment, but the limited resources within the borough necessitate reliance on surrounding towns and cities for specialized medical care, particularly for those with chronic conditions like hypertension.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents is the personal vehicle. The road network, while offering direct routes, presents its own set of challenges. The primary artery connecting Aristes to the wider world is **PA-54**, a state highway that winds its way east and west. Driving west on PA-54 provides access to Mount Carmel, a town with a small hospital and several physician offices, a trip that typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This is the closest option for many, offering a degree of convenience for routine check-ups and basic medical needs.

Heading east on PA-54 leads to Shamokin, another nearby town with healthcare facilities. The drive to Shamokin, generally about 10-15 minutes, offers another option for residents. However, the quality and range of healthcare services can vary between these towns, impacting the overall "Hypertension Score."

Beyond PA-54, the **Interstate 81** offers a faster route to more comprehensive healthcare options. However, accessing I-81 requires navigating smaller roads, adding travel time. The closest access point is approximately 15-20 minutes away. Driving south on I-81 opens up access to Pottsville, a larger city with a regional medical center, a journey of about 30-40 minutes. This drive is critical for specialized care, including cardiology appointments, and is a significant factor in assessing the "Hypertension Score."

Public transportation options are limited in Aristes. The local bus service, operated by the **Schuylkill Transportation System (STS)**, provides some coverage, but its routes and schedules may not be conducive to convenient healthcare access. The STS Route 40, for example, travels through the area, but the frequency of service and the potential for multiple transfers can significantly increase travel time, making it a less desirable option for individuals with hypertension. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor, ensuring accessibility for those with mobility limitations, which directly impacts the "Hypertension Score."

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available, but their presence in Aristes is variable. Availability depends on driver density, which can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-sharing can be expensive and unreliable, particularly for regular medical appointments. This uncertainty directly impacts the "Hypertension Score" and highlights the need for alternative transportation solutions.

Medical transportation services, such as **MedStar Transportation** or **Care Ride**, are available for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring specialized assistance. These services can provide door-to-door transportation to medical appointments, but they often require advance booking and can be costly. The availability and affordability of these services are crucial factors in evaluating the "Hypertension Score," especially for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options.

For residents considering moving to Aristes, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. The relative isolation of the borough, coupled with the limited public transportation and the variable availability of ride-sharing services, poses challenges for those managing hypertension. The reliance on personal vehicles and the drive times to healthcare facilities are key considerations.

The "Hypertension Score" for Aristes, therefore, reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While nearby towns offer some options, the need to travel for specialized care and the limitations of public transportation and ride-sharing services contribute to a lower score. The score is further impacted by the potential for inclement weather, which can make driving conditions hazardous and disrupt public transportation schedules.

The factors impacting the "Hypertension Score" in Aristes include drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transportation, the presence and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services for individuals with mobility limitations. The score also considers the availability of pharmacy services within the borough and the ease of obtaining prescription refills.

The "Hypertension Score" is not static; it can be improved through community initiatives. Encouraging the expansion of public transportation routes, promoting ride-sharing programs, and advocating for increased medical transportation services can all contribute to enhancing healthcare access. Furthermore, supporting the establishment of telehealth services and mobile medical clinics can bring healthcare closer to residents, improving the "Hypertension Score" and the overall quality of life for those managing hypertension in Aristes.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing healthcare access in Aristes. It highlights the critical link between transportation and health outcomes, providing a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities for residents managing hypertension. The score underscores the importance of proactive measures to improve transportation options and ensure that all residents have access to the timely and appropriate medical care they need.