17944, Llewellyn, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17944, Llewellyn, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.38 percent of residents in 17944 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 4.84 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17944

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, requires a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 17944, encompassing the community of Llewellyn, Pennsylvania, and provides a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease and efficiency of commuting to essential medical appointments. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, crucial factors for individuals prioritizing healthcare.

The foundation of this assessment lies in understanding the geographical layout and transportation infrastructure of the region. Llewellyn, nestled in Schuylkill County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are **Interstate 81 (I-81)**, which serves as the major north-south corridor, and **Route 901**, a vital local road connecting Llewellyn to neighboring towns. Access to healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices, is largely determined by the efficiency of these routes.

For residents with hypertension, timely access to medical care is paramount. Regular check-ups, medication management, and potential emergency interventions necessitate reliable transportation options. The "Hypertension Score" considers the time required to reach key healthcare providers, factoring in potential traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. This score will be a guide for prospective residents *moving to Llewellyn* and existing residents seeking to improve their healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Vehicular Transportation:**

The primary mode of transportation in this rural setting is the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on location and traffic conditions. The closest major hospital, **Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital - Orwigsburg**, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via **Route 901** and **Route 443**. This is a relatively short commute, offering a degree of convenience.

However, specialized care might necessitate travel to larger medical centers. For instance, **Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill** in Pottsville, approximately a 20-25 minute drive via **Route 901** and **Route 209**, offers a wider range of services. Further afield, access to hospitals in Harrisburg or Allentown requires significantly longer drives, often exceeding an hour via **I-81**, which can be a significant barrier for individuals with hypertension.

Traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour, can significantly impact drive times. The "Hypertension Score" accounts for these variations, considering the potential for delays and the impact on appointment adherence. The reliability of personal vehicles, including their maintenance and insurance, is also a factor, as breakdowns or unexpected expenses can disrupt healthcare access.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in ZIP code 17944 are limited, presenting a challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The **Schuylkill Transportation System (STS)** provides bus services throughout the county, but service frequency and route coverage are often restricted in rural areas.

The primary STS route serving Llewellyn is likely Route 30, which connects to Pottsville and other towns. However, the schedule may not align with the needs of individuals with hypertension, particularly for early morning appointments or follow-up visits. ADA-accessible features on STS buses are available, but the lack of frequent service can still be a barrier.

The "Hypertension Score" considers the availability, frequency, and accessibility of STS routes. The score also assesses the ease of transferring between routes, as multiple transfers can significantly increase travel time and complexity. For individuals with mobility limitations, the absence of readily available public transportation can severely restrict healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region but may have limited availability in Llewellyn. The "Hypertension Score" considers the reliability of these services, the potential for surge pricing, and the ability to schedule rides in advance. Ride-sharing can be a valuable option for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to public transportation, but it may not be a cost-effective solution for regular medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a more specialized option. Companies such as **CareRide** and **Medical Transportation Services** operate in the area, offering non-emergency medical transportation. The "Hypertension Score" evaluates the availability, cost, and reliability of these services. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, making them particularly useful for individuals with mobility limitations or other health concerns.

**The "Hypertension Score" Methodology:**

The "Hypertension Score" is calculated based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above. Drive times to key healthcare facilities are assigned the highest weight, reflecting the importance of timely access to medical care. Public transportation options are weighted based on their frequency, route coverage, and accessibility. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services are weighted based on their availability, cost, and reliability.

The score is presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better healthcare access. The score is updated regularly to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure, service availability, and traffic conditions. The "Hypertension Score" provides a valuable tool for residents of Llewellyn, assisting them in making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Impact on Individuals with Hypertension:**

For individuals with hypertension, the "Hypertension Score" is a critical tool. It allows them to assess the ease and efficiency of commuting to medical appointments, enabling them to make informed decisions about their healthcare. A low score might indicate a need to explore alternative transportation options, such as ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

Furthermore, the "Hypertension Score" can be used to advocate for improvements in healthcare access. By highlighting the challenges faced by residents of Llewellyn, the score can encourage policymakers to invest in public transportation, expand ride-sharing services, or support medical transportation initiatives.

**Conclusion:**

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 17944 provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access, considering the unique transportation challenges of Llewellyn. The score highlights the importance of reliable transportation for individuals managing hypertension. By understanding the drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, residents can proactively manage their healthcare needs. The score also serves as a catalyst for improving healthcare access, ultimately promoting better health outcomes for the community. For those *moving to Llewellyn*, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for ensuring seamless access to healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension.