17948, Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17948, Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.48 percent of residents in 17948 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 9.19 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mahanoy City (ZIP Code 17948)

The decision to relocate, especially when managing a chronic condition like hypertension, demands meticulous planning. In the context of moving to Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17948), a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access is paramount. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" framework, assessing the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities, essential for managing blood pressure effectively. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, offering a nuanced perspective on **healthcare access** within this specific geographic area.

Mahanoy City, nestled in Schuylkill County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's relative isolation, coupled with the need for specialized medical care, necessitates a thorough evaluation of the available **transportation** options. The following analysis will help prospective residents gauge the practicality of managing hypertension in this environment.

**Drive Times: The Primary Route to Care**

For residents of Mahanoy City, the automobile remains the most direct route to healthcare. The primary arteries connecting the town to medical facilities are Pennsylvania Route 924 and Pennsylvania Route 54. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near the town's center and during school dismissal times.

The closest hospital, Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg, is approximately a 20-25 minute drive via Interstate 81 South and then Route 61 South. This drive is generally straightforward, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times, necessitating careful planning and potentially delaying appointments.

For specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, residents often travel to larger hospitals in Pottsville or Reading. The drive to Schuylkill Medical Center in Pottsville, via Route 924 and Route 61, takes approximately 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic. Reading Hospital, a more extensive facility, is about a 1-hour to 1-hour and 15-minute drive via Interstate 78 East and Route 61 North. These longer drive times highlight the importance of proactive medication management and regular check-ups to minimize the need for urgent care visits.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Significant Challenges**

Public **transportation** options in Mahanoy City are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals reliant on non-driving **transportation** methods. Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting smaller towns within the county.

The primary STS route serving Mahanoy City is Route 40, which travels to Pottsville, the county seat. This route, while offering a connection to some medical facilities, requires careful planning. The bus schedule is limited, with buses typically running on a set schedule with limited weekend service.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. STS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequency of service and the potential for long wait times can still present significant barriers to **healthcare access**. For individuals with mobility limitations, relying on public transit for regular medical appointments might prove challenging.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Mahanoy City area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-share services can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer an alternative for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit. These services, provided by companies like MedStar or AMR, are typically reserved for those with specific medical needs or mobility limitations. They require prior arrangements and can be costly, depending on the distance and level of care required.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

Based on the above analysis, the "Hypertension Score" for Mahanoy City (ZIP Code 17948) is a composite measure, reflecting the overall ease of accessing healthcare for individuals managing hypertension.

* **Drive Time Score:** Moderate. While the drive to nearby hospitals is manageable, longer distances to specialized care facilities impact the score.
* **Public Transit Score:** Low. Limited routes, infrequent service, and potential accessibility challenges significantly hinder **healthcare access** via public transit.
* **Ride-Share Score:** Moderate. Availability is inconsistent, and costs can be prohibitive for frequent use.
* **Medical Transport Score:** Moderate. Provides a viable option for those with specific needs, but cost and pre-arrangement requirements are limiting factors.

**Overall, the Hypertension Score for Mahanoy City is moderately challenging.** Individuals considering moving to Mahanoy City and managing hypertension should prioritize access to a reliable vehicle. They must also factor in potential travel times and the need for proactive medication management.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

For those considering **moving to Mahanoy City** with hypertension, several recommendations are essential:

* **Establish a primary care physician (PCP) in the area.** This ensures regular check-ups and medication management.
* **Identify nearby pharmacies for convenient medication refills.**
* **Explore telehealth options for routine appointments.** This can reduce the need for frequent travel.
* **Research local support groups for individuals with hypertension.**
* **Plan for potential weather-related travel delays.**
* **Consider the costs of ride-share services and medical transport.**
* **Inquire about home healthcare services if mobility is a concern.**

By carefully considering these factors and understanding the **transportation** landscape, individuals can make informed decisions about their **healthcare access** and successfully manage their hypertension in Mahanoy City. This proactive approach is critical to ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining optimal health while **moving to Mahanoy City**.