17922, Auburn, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17922, Auburn, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.71 percent of residents in 17922 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 4.57 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Auburn, PA (ZIP Code 17922)

Considering a move to the charming borough of Auburn, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17922), and managing hypertension? Understanding your access to healthcare, especially in relation to transportation, is paramount. This “Hypertension Score” write-up explores the landscape of healthcare access, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, all crucial elements for individuals managing this chronic condition. Your ability to swiftly and reliably reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency care directly impacts your health outcomes.

Auburn, nestled in Schuylkill County, presents a unique challenge and opportunity. The rural setting, while offering tranquility, can complicate healthcare access. This analysis will help you navigate the transportation terrain, ensuring you can confidently manage your hypertension.

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

The primary mode of transportation in Auburn is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by the local road network. The primary thoroughfare is **Route 895**, a critical artery connecting Auburn to neighboring towns and cities. Heading east on Route 895, you'll find yourself quickly approaching **Route 61**, a major north-south artery offering connections to Pottsville, the county seat, and other regional hubs.

For those seeking specialized care or a broader range of services, Pottsville is the most likely destination. The drive from Auburn to the heart of Pottsville, where facilities like Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital are located, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive predominantly utilizes Route 61.

Traveling west on Route 895 will lead you towards communities like Pine Grove, another potential destination for healthcare services. The drive to Pine Grove, which might offer some smaller clinics or medical offices, is generally shorter, around 15-20 minutes, primarily via Route 895.

**Navigating Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Auburn are limited. Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides some service within the county. However, the frequency and coverage in the Auburn area are restricted. STS routes are not designed to cater to the needs of individuals with hypertension.

While specific routes and schedules are subject to change, it's essential to investigate the current STS offerings. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant vehicles are available on all STS routes, ensuring accessibility for those with mobility limitations. However, be prepared for longer travel times and potential transfers, which can be particularly challenging for individuals managing a health condition.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Schuylkill County area, including Auburn. However, their availability and responsiveness can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments requires careful planning and scheduling. Booking rides in advance is highly recommended, especially for early morning or late evening appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services often offer door-to-door assistance, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey to medical appointments.

Researching local medical transport providers is crucial. Inquire about their service area, pricing, and ability to accommodate specific needs, such as wheelchair accessibility or oxygen requirements. Consider companies like **Care Ride** or **Medicaid Transportation Services** to see if they service your area.

**Healthcare Access: The Heart of the Matter**

Beyond transportation, the availability of healthcare providers in the Auburn area is a critical factor. Assess the proximity of primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and emergency services. Consider the following:

* **Primary Care Physicians:** Are there local physicians accepting new patients?
* **Specialists:** Are there cardiologists, endocrinologists, and other specialists within a reasonable driving distance?
* **Pharmacies:** Are there local pharmacies for easy prescription refills?
* **Emergency Services:** How quickly can you reach the nearest emergency room?

**Moving to Auburn: A Personalized Approach**

Before making a move to Auburn, a comprehensive assessment of your healthcare access is essential. This involves:

1. **Mapping:** Create a map outlining the locations of healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and transportation options.
2. **Contacting Providers:** Contact local physicians, specialists, and pharmacies to inquire about their services and appointment availability.
3. **Evaluating Transportation Options:** Research the availability and reliability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.
4. **Considering Insurance:** Verify that your health insurance plan covers healthcare providers and transportation services in the Auburn area.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Perspective**

The "Hypertension Score" is not a numerical value but a holistic assessment of your ability to access healthcare in Auburn. It encompasses the following:

* **Drive Time Score:** How quickly can you reach essential healthcare services via personal vehicle?
* **Public Transit Score:** How reliable and accessible is public transportation for your needs?
* **Ride-Sharing/Medical Transport Score:** What are the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport options?
* **Healthcare Provider Proximity Score:** How close are you to primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies?
* **Emergency Services Access Score:** How quickly can you reach the nearest emergency room?

By evaluating these factors, you can create a personalized "Hypertension Score" that reflects your individual needs and circumstances. This score will help you make an informed decision about moving to Auburn and managing your hypertension effectively.

**Conclusion: Empowering Your Health Journey**

Moving to a new area while managing a chronic condition like hypertension requires careful planning. By understanding the transportation landscape, healthcare access, and the available resources in Auburn, you can empower yourself to maintain optimal health. Proactive research, careful planning, and a willingness to adapt are key to a successful transition and a healthy life in your new community. Remember that a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and medication adherence, is crucial for managing hypertension, regardless of your location. Prioritize your health, and embrace the opportunity to thrive in Auburn.