17929, Cressona, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17929, Cressona, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.29 percent of residents in 17929 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 3.61 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Cressona, PA (ZIP Code 17929)

Cressona, Pennsylvania, a borough nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, presents a unique landscape for those seeking healthcare, particularly concerning the management of hypertension. Understanding the complexities of **transportation** options is paramount when assessing **healthcare access** in this community. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" analysis, evaluating the ease with which residents of ZIP code 17929 can access essential medical services, focusing on factors critical for hypertension management. If you're **moving to Cressona**, this information is vital for planning your healthcare needs.

The "Hypertension Score" is a holistic assessment, weighing factors such as drive times, public **transportation** availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. Each element is evaluated for its impact on a patient's ability to consistently and efficiently access healthcare, a crucial element in managing hypertension. The score, though not a numerical value, reflects the overall ease or difficulty of navigating the healthcare system within and around Cressona.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Cressona's location, while offering a tranquil lifestyle, presents challenges regarding healthcare accessibility. The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** are Interstate 81 (I-81), Route 61, and Route 183. Accessing specialized cardiology services, primary care physicians, and pharmacies often necessitates travel outside the immediate borough.

For residents in Cressona, a trip to the nearest major medical center, Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg, typically involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 61. This drive time is generally manageable, provided traffic conditions are favorable. However, during peak hours or inclement weather, this commute can extend, impacting a patient's ability to adhere to scheduled appointments and medication regimens.

Further afield, Pottsville, the county seat, offers a broader range of healthcare providers. Reaching Pottsville requires a drive of approximately 10-15 minutes, also primarily via Route 61. This route is generally well-maintained, but its reliance on a single major road can make it vulnerable to traffic disruptions.

For more specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, residents may need to travel to larger cities like Reading or Allentown. These trips involve longer drive times, typically exceeding an hour via I-78 East or I-81 South, respectively. These longer commutes can significantly impact a patient's ability to maintain regular appointments, especially for those with limited mobility or without reliable **transportation**.

**Public Transportation Challenges:**

Public **transportation** options in Cressona are limited. Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service within the county. However, service frequency and route coverage are restricted, especially during evenings and weekends. This can pose a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

The STS Route 305, which serves the Cressona area, offers a connection to Pottsville and other surrounding communities. However, the schedule may not align with the appointment times of healthcare providers, potentially requiring patients to arrange for alternative **transportation** or endure extended wait times.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor for individuals with mobility limitations. While STS buses are equipped with accessibility features, the availability of these features on all routes and at all stops should be verified. Furthermore, the infrastructure at bus stops, such as ramps and accessible seating, may vary, impacting the ease of use for individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Options:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Cressona area, but their availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours. This can pose a challenge for patients needing on-demand **transportation** to appointments or pharmacy visits. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent trips.

Medical **transportation** services are available, catering specifically to patients with healthcare needs. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require advance booking and may have limitations on the geographical area served.

The availability of these services can be a lifeline for individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive. However, patients must navigate the booking process, understand the service's limitations, and factor in potential wait times.

**Pharmacy Access and Medication Management:**

Access to pharmacies is a critical component of hypertension management. Cressona has local pharmacies, offering convenient access to medications. However, the availability of specialized medications or the need for compounding services may necessitate travel to larger pharmacies in Pottsville or beyond.

The ability to conveniently refill prescriptions and receive medication counseling is essential for patient adherence to treatment plans. Patients should investigate the pharmacy's hours of operation, delivery options, and the availability of pharmacist consultations.

**Overall Hypertension Score Assessment:**

The "Hypertension Score" for Cressona, PA (ZIP Code 17929) reflects a mixed bag of accessibility. While the immediate area offers some healthcare resources and convenient pharmacy access, challenges arise regarding **transportation**. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public **transportation** options can create barriers to consistent healthcare access.

For individuals **moving to Cressona**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Establishing a primary care physician within the community, understanding the availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services, and exploring the public **transportation** options are all essential steps.

Furthermore, individuals should familiarize themselves with the local healthcare landscape, including the location of hospitals, specialist clinics, and pharmacies. Developing a comprehensive plan for accessing healthcare services, including backup **transportation** options, is essential for effectively managing hypertension and maintaining overall health. The score is moderate, with a need for careful planning and consideration of the **transportation** challenges to ensure consistent access to care.