17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.35 percent of residents in 17935 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 9.06 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Girardville (ZIP Code 17935)

Girardville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up explores the complexities of transportation options available to residents of ZIP Code 17935, evaluating their impact on the ability to receive timely and effective care for this prevalent condition. We will examine drive times, public transit, ride-share services, and medical transport, ultimately contributing to a “Hypertension Score” reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching necessary medical appointments.

The primary concern for individuals with hypertension is consistent access to medical professionals, medication refills, and monitoring. Delays in these areas can lead to complications, including stroke, heart attack, and kidney disease. The “Hypertension Score” will therefore consider factors like travel time, accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations, and the overall reliability of available transportation options.

**The Geography of Girardville and its Impact**

Girardville is a small, close-knit community, but its location in a rural area significantly influences transportation options. The town is surrounded by rolling hills and wooded areas, with limited public transit infrastructure. This geographic reality directly impacts the ability of residents to access healthcare facilities, especially those located outside of Girardville itself.

**Driving Times: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For many Girardville residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The speed and efficiency of this option are directly tied to the condition of the roads and the distance to healthcare providers. The nearest hospitals and specialist offices are primarily located in Pottsville, approximately 15-20 minutes away via **Route 54** and **Route 61**. The drive itself is generally straightforward, but traffic can be a factor during peak hours, potentially delaying appointments.

Alternatively, healthcare facilities in Ashland, about 10-15 minutes away via **Route 54**, offer another option. However, the availability of specialized services may be more limited compared to Pottsville. For those requiring more specialized care, the drive to larger medical centers in Reading or Allentown, which can take up to an hour or more via **Interstate 81** and connecting highways, becomes a significant consideration. This extended travel time can pose a challenge for individuals with hypertension, especially during emergencies.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Reality**

Public transportation options in Girardville are extremely limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides some service within the county, but its routes and schedules are not designed to meet the specific needs of individuals with chronic conditions like hypertension. Bus routes are infrequent, and service to Girardville is restricted.

The STS does offer some ADA-compliant buses, equipped with ramps and other features for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and route coverage make this option impractical for many residents, particularly those needing frequent appointments or facing urgent medical situations. The lack of a robust public transportation system significantly impacts the “Hypertension Score,” as it reduces the options for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Share Services: A Growing, Yet Imperfect, Solution**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft have expanded their presence in many areas, but their availability in Girardville and the surrounding areas is inconsistent. While they may be available at certain times, the reliability of these services is not guaranteed. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can also make them cost-prohibitive for some individuals. The limited availability of ride-share services adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access, especially for those who rely on this type of transportation.

**Medical Transportation: Specialized Support for Specific Needs**

Medical transportation services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available for individuals with specific needs. These services are typically used for appointments, dialysis, and other medical procedures. However, the cost of these services can be significant, and they often require advance booking. The availability of medical transportation is an important consideration for individuals with hypertension who may have mobility limitations or require assistance with travel.

**Medical Transport Brands**

Several medical transport brands operate in Schuylkill County, including Schuylkill EMS and other private companies. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. The quality of these services can vary, and it is essential for individuals to research and choose a reputable provider.

**The “Hypertension Score” in Girardville**

Based on the factors discussed, the “Hypertension Score” for Girardville (ZIP Code 17935) is moderately challenging. While driving times to nearby healthcare facilities are relatively short, the lack of robust public transportation, the inconsistent availability of ride-share services, and the cost of medical transport create significant barriers to healthcare access for some residents.

For individuals with hypertension, this means that they must rely primarily on personal vehicles, which may not be an option for everyone. The limited public transit options and the potential cost of ride-share or medical transport can make it difficult to attend regular appointments, obtain medication refills, and receive timely care.

**Moving to Girardville: A Consideration for Healthcare Access**

Individuals considering moving to Girardville should carefully evaluate the available transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful lifestyle and a lower cost of living, the limitations in transportation may pose a challenge for those with chronic health conditions.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

To improve the “Hypertension Score” and healthcare access in Girardville, several steps could be taken. Expanding public transportation services, increasing the availability of ride-share options, and providing financial assistance for medical transportation are all crucial. Additionally, promoting telehealth services and establishing a community-based healthcare program could help to address the transportation challenges.

**Conclusion**

Navigating healthcare access in Girardville requires careful consideration of transportation options. While driving remains the primary mode, the limitations of public transit, the inconsistency of ride-share services, and the cost of medical transport create challenges for individuals with hypertension. By addressing these challenges, the community can improve the “Hypertension Score” and ensure that all residents have access to the timely and effective care they need.