17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 17933 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 6.28 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Friedensburg, PA (ZIP Code 17933)

The journey to healthcare in Friedensburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17933), demands a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" write-up, assesses the accessibility of medical services, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, considering the crucial factor of transportation. This score isn't a numerical value but a descriptive assessment of the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing care, vital for anyone contemplating moving to Friedensburg or already residing within its borders.

The primary challenge is the rural nature of the area. Friedensburg itself is a small community, and the surrounding landscape influences healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, making car ownership almost a necessity. Public transportation options are limited, and ride-sharing services, while present, may have variable availability, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

Accessing specialized care often necessitates traveling beyond Friedensburg. The primary arteries for transportation are Pennsylvania Route 443 (PA-443) and Interstate 81 (I-81). PA-443 provides a direct route to Pottsville, the county seat, offering a cluster of medical facilities, including Geisinger St. Luke’s Hospital. The drive typically takes around 15-20 minutes, barring traffic.

Interstate 81 is a major north-south thoroughfare. Heading south on I-81, you can reach Harrisburg, the state capital, in approximately an hour. Harrisburg offers a broader range of specialized medical services, including those associated with Penn State Health. The travel time, however, significantly increases the time commitment for appointments and follow-ups. Northbound on I-81 leads to larger cities like Scranton, further expanding healthcare options, but also increasing travel time.

Secondary roads, such as Route 901 and local township roads, provide alternative routes, but these are often winding and can be affected by weather conditions. These roads are crucial for accessing local primary care physicians and pharmacies within the immediate vicinity of Friedensburg. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact the ability to reach healthcare facilities.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline:**

Public transportation options in Friedensburg are limited, which impacts healthcare access. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service within Schuylkill County. However, service frequency and route coverage are restricted, particularly in rural areas like Friedensburg.

The STS route network is designed to serve the county’s major population centers. While a route might pass through or near Friedensburg, the frequency of service is often infrequent, potentially requiring significant wait times. The schedules must be carefully reviewed to align with healthcare appointments. ADA-accessible buses are available, crucial for individuals with mobility limitations.

The lack of readily available public transportation poses a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. This limitation highlights the importance of considering alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent. The presence of these services is dependent on driver availability, which can be limited in rural areas. Surge pricing, common during peak hours or periods of high demand, can make these services expensive, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies or ambulance services, provide a specialized transportation option. These services are designed to transport individuals with medical needs, including those requiring assistance with mobility. However, these services can be costly and often require pre-booking, which may not be ideal for urgent medical situations.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge:**

The availability of healthcare facilities within Friedensburg itself is limited. Residents often rely on medical providers in nearby towns like Pottsville. This reliance underscores the importance of reliable transportation. For individuals managing hypertension, regular check-ups, medication refills, and access to specialized care are essential. The transportation challenges can create barriers to consistent healthcare, potentially impacting their health outcomes.

The location of pharmacies is also a critical factor. The ability to conveniently fill prescriptions is vital for managing hypertension. The proximity of pharmacies to primary care physicians and the availability of home delivery services can significantly enhance medication adherence.

**The "Hypertension Score" Assessment:**

The "Hypertension Score" for Friedensburg (ZIP Code 17933) is moderate, reflecting a mix of challenges and opportunities. The reliance on personal vehicles is high, and the limited public transportation options pose a significant barrier for some residents. Ride-sharing services offer a supplementary option, but their availability and cost can be limiting factors.

The drive times to healthcare facilities in Pottsville are manageable, but access to specialized care in Harrisburg or other larger cities requires longer travel times. The availability of medical transport services provides a safety net, but the cost and need for pre-booking can be a constraint.

**Moving to Friedensburg: Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Friedensburg, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is paramount. The availability of a personal vehicle is almost essential. The proximity of healthcare facilities in Pottsville is a positive factor, but the potential need for travel to larger cities for specialized care should be considered.

Individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive should carefully evaluate the availability and reliability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. The cost of transportation, including vehicle maintenance, fuel, and the expense of ride-sharing or medical transport, should be factored into the overall cost of living.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" highlights the critical role of transportation in accessing healthcare in Friedensburg. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the transportation landscape presents challenges that must be carefully considered by residents and those contemplating a move. Careful planning and awareness of available resources are essential for ensuring consistent and accessible healthcare, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension.