17953, Middleport, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17953, Middleport, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.12 percent of residents in 17953 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 5.01 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Middleport, PA (ZIP Code 17953)

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly managing conditions like hypertension, demands reliable **transportation** and seamless **healthcare access**. This write-up analyzes the available options for residents of Middleport, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17953), focusing on their ability to reach essential medical services. We'll assess the "Hypertension Score" based on the ease with which individuals can access care, considering factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport. This information is vital for current residents and those considering **moving to Middleport**, especially individuals managing hypertension.

Middleport, nestled in Schuylkill County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Its rural setting, while offering scenic beauty, can pose challenges regarding **transportation** to medical facilities. The availability and efficiency of **transportation** options directly impact the ability to receive timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of hypertension. This is particularly critical for individuals needing regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency care.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways impacting **healthcare access** in Middleport are Pennsylvania Route 895 and Pennsylvania Route 183. These roads serve as lifelines, connecting residents to larger towns and cities with comprehensive medical facilities. The drive to Pottsville, the county seat, and home to several hospitals and specialist practices, is approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 895 and Route 61. This is a relatively manageable drive, assuming clear traffic conditions.

However, weather can significantly impact travel times, especially during winter months. Snow and ice can make these rural roads treacherous, potentially delaying or preventing access to medical appointments. This underscores the importance of having backup **transportation** plans and being prepared for inclement weather. The drive to larger medical centers in Reading or Allentown, while offering more specialized care, can exceed an hour, making it a less practical option for routine check-ups.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** options in Middleport are limited, which significantly impacts the **healthcare access** of individuals without personal vehicles. Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout the county. While STS does serve Middleport, the frequency of routes and destinations can be restrictive. Bus routes are often geared towards connecting major towns and cities, potentially requiring multiple transfers to reach specific medical facilities.

The STS buses are generally equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps or lifts, and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service frequency and potential for lengthy travel times can pose challenges for those managing hypertension, especially if frequent medical appointments are required. Checking the STS website or calling their customer service is crucial to understand the specific routes, schedules, and accessibility features available for travel from Middleport.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary. Rural areas often experience longer wait times and potentially higher fares compared to urban centers. This makes ride-sharing a less dependable option for urgent medical needs or regular appointments. It is important to pre-book rides if possible, especially for appointments scheduled outside of peak hours.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer specialized **transportation** for individuals with medical needs. These services are crucial for those who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transit. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, while NEMT providers offer **transportation** to and from medical appointments, dialysis, and other healthcare-related destinations.

Several NEMT providers operate in Schuylkill County. Researching and contacting these providers in advance is essential to understand their services, coverage areas, and eligibility requirements. Some NEMT services may require pre-authorization from a healthcare provider. These services are invaluable for those with mobility limitations or other health conditions that make driving or using public transit difficult.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access:**

The closest medical facilities to Middleport include Schuylkill Medical Center–South Jackson Street and Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital, both located in Pottsville. These facilities offer a range of primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services. The proximity of these facilities is a significant advantage for residents of Middleport, as it reduces drive times and improves **healthcare access**.

However, the availability of specialists and the specific services offered can vary. Individuals with complex medical needs may need to travel to larger medical centers in Reading or Allentown for specialized care. This underscores the importance of considering the full spectrum of **healthcare access** when assessing the suitability of **moving to Middleport**.

**Hypertension Score Assessment:**

Based on the available **transportation** options and **healthcare access** in Middleport, the "Hypertension Score" can be assessed as follows:

* **Drive Times:** Relatively good for accessing primary care and emergency services in Pottsville. Longer travel times for specialized care.
* **Public Transit:** Limited service frequency and potential for lengthy travel times. ADA features are available, but the overall accessibility is moderate.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Availability may be inconsistent, and wait times could be significant.
* **Medical Transport:** Essential for those with mobility limitations or other health conditions. Researching and contacting NEMT providers is crucial.

**Overall, the Hypertension Score for Middleport is moderate.** While the proximity to medical facilities in Pottsville is a positive factor, the limitations of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. Individuals **moving to Middleport** or currently residing there, particularly those managing hypertension, should prioritize the following:

1. **Establish a relationship with a primary care physician** in Pottsville or a nearby area.
2. **Explore and understand the STS bus routes** and schedules.
3. **Research and identify NEMT providers** in the area.
4. **Develop a backup plan** for **transportation** during inclement weather or when personal vehicles are unavailable.
5. **Consider the potential for longer travel times** for specialized medical care.

By proactively addressing these factors, residents of Middleport can optimize their **healthcare access** and effectively manage their hypertension. This careful assessment is crucial for those considering **moving to Middleport**, ensuring they can maintain their health and well-being within this unique community. The ability to navigate the available **transportation** options is a key component of a healthy lifestyle in this area.