17931, Frackville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17931, Frackville, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.15 percent of residents in 17931 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 7.12 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Frackville (ZIP Code 17931)

The journey to managing hypertension in Frackville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17931) is often intertwined with the challenges of transportation. This write-up explores the multifaceted landscape of healthcare access within this community, providing a 'Hypertension Score' assessment based on available transportation options. This score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical services, crucial for effectively managing this prevalent health condition. Understanding these dynamics is particularly relevant for individuals and families considering moving to Frackville.

Frackville, nestled in Schuylkill County, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. The town's relative isolation, coupled with its aging population, demands a careful examination of the available resources. A high Hypertension Score indicates readily accessible healthcare, while a low score signals potential barriers to timely and consistent care. This analysis will delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, offering a comprehensive view of the transportation landscape.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Access**

For many Frackville residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of reaching healthcare facilities hinges on the road network. Major arteries like Interstate 81 (I-81) offer relatively quick access to larger medical centers outside of Frackville. Traveling south on I-81, a drive to Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg typically takes around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. This facility offers comprehensive cardiology services, crucial for hypertension management.

Within Frackville, Route 54 and Route 61 serve as vital connectors. Route 61, running north-south, provides access to local pharmacies and primary care physicians. Route 54, traversing east-west, links Frackville to neighboring towns and healthcare providers. Commuting to Pottsville, the county seat, and home to several medical specialists, via Route 61, usually takes approximately 15-20 minutes. These drive times are generally favorable, yet they are subject to weather conditions and peak traffic hours.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Frackville are limited, impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus services within the county. However, the routes and schedules are often infrequent, particularly on weekends and evenings. While STS buses do serve Frackville, the frequency of service to medical facilities is a concern.

The STS does offer ADA-compliant buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited routes and potential for long wait times can pose significant challenges for those requiring frequent medical appointments. Individuals relying on public transit may need to factor in considerable travel time when planning their healthcare visits. This can negatively impact the Hypertension Score, as it can make it difficult to get to needed appointments in a timely manner.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a presence in the region, though availability can be inconsistent. The reliance on these services can be especially challenging for patients with chronic conditions. Demand can surge during peak hours, potentially delaying access to medical care. The cost of these services can also be a barrier, particularly for those on fixed incomes.

Medical transport services offer a dedicated solution for individuals needing assistance. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services can be pre-booked and often offer door-to-door assistance. However, these services are often reserved for specific situations and may require prior authorization. The availability and cost of medical transport services significantly influence the Hypertension Score.

**The Hypertension Score: A Composite Assessment**

Considering the factors discussed, the Hypertension Score for Frackville (ZIP Code 17931) is moderately impacted. While the road network offers relatively efficient drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The availability of medical transport provides a crucial safety net, but it is not always readily accessible.

For individuals with hypertension, the reliance on personal vehicles is a significant factor. Those without access to a car face greater challenges in accessing timely and consistent care. The limited public transit options and the variability of ride-sharing services can create barriers to healthcare access, potentially leading to delays in treatment or medication refills.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

To improve the Hypertension Score, several initiatives could be considered. Enhancing public transportation routes and frequency, particularly to medical facilities, would significantly benefit residents. Promoting ride-sharing programs and providing subsidies for transportation costs for low-income individuals would also improve healthcare access. Expanding the availability of medical transport services and ensuring their affordability is also critical.

Individuals considering moving to Frackville should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Evaluating the proximity of healthcare providers, the reliability of transportation options, and the availability of support services is essential. Proactive planning, including establishing a relationship with a primary care physician and understanding the local transportation landscape, can help ensure effective hypertension management.

The overall goal is to create a healthcare environment where transportation is not a barrier but a facilitator of health. This requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, local government, transportation agencies, and community organizations. By addressing the transportation challenges, Frackville can improve the Hypertension Score and enhance the quality of life for all its residents. This will make it easier for people moving to Frackville to manage their health needs.