17970, Saint Clair, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17970, Saint Clair, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.22 percent of residents in 17970 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 6.40 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Saint Clair, PA (ZIP Code 17970)

Saint Clair, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, presents a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. The very fabric of the community, its geography, and its transportation infrastructure, all intertwine to shape a complex landscape for those seeking timely and consistent medical care. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 17970, provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services, considering the critical role of transportation.

The score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a clear picture for residents and potential newcomers, especially those considering moving to Saint Clair, who are managing hypertension and require reliable access to medical care. Understanding these factors is paramount for proactive health management and ensuring a high quality of life.

**The Geography and Its Impact**

Saint Clair's location, nestled within the Appalachian Mountains, significantly impacts transportation. The town's layout, with its winding roads and hilly terrain, presents inherent challenges. The primary arteries for transportation are **Route 61**, which runs north-south, and **Route 901**, traversing east-west. These roadways are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities, but their accessibility is subject to weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Pennsylvania winters.

The surrounding area is characterized by a mix of residential and commercial zones, with healthcare facilities often located outside the immediate town center. This necessitates reliance on various modes of transportation, amplifying the importance of understanding travel times and available options.

**Drive Times: The Road to Healthcare**

The most common mode of transportation in Saint Clair is personal vehicles. Drive times to key healthcare providers are a critical factor in the Hypertension Score. The nearest major hospital, **Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital** in Orwigsburg, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via **Route 61 South**. This drive, while relatively short, can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further. **Lehigh Valley Hospital – Schuylkill** in Pottsville is approximately a 10-15 minute drive via **Route 61 North**. This facility offers a wider range of services, including cardiology, which is essential for hypertension management. Traveling to other specialized clinics or hospitals in Reading or Allentown would significantly increase drive times, potentially exceeding an hour, impacting the convenience of regular check-ups and follow-up appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Saint Clair, while present, is limited. **Schuylkill Transportation System (STS)** provides bus service, but the routes and schedules may not always align with the needs of individuals requiring frequent medical appointments. Bus routes, identified by numbers, have varying frequency and operational hours.

The **STS Route 1** and **Route 2** are the primary routes that serve Saint Clair. However, these routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities, requiring transfers or longer travel times. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. While STS buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating, the availability of accessible stops along the routes can vary.

The limited frequency of buses, especially during evenings and weekends, can present a significant challenge for those managing hypertension. The lack of readily available public transit options can restrict access to healthcare, especially for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Saint Clair area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs, offer a valuable alternative. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing door-to-door service to healthcare appointments. These services are often covered by insurance, but it is essential to verify coverage and pre-book appointments well in advance.

**The Hypertension Score: A Composite Assessment**

The Hypertension Score for Saint Clair (ZIP code 17970) is derived from a weighted average of the factors discussed above. Drive times to key healthcare providers, the availability and accessibility of public transit, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport options are all considered.

The score is designed to reflect the ease with which individuals with hypertension can access healthcare services, highlighting potential challenges and opportunities. A higher score indicates greater accessibility, while a lower score suggests greater difficulty.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving the Hypertension Score for Saint Clair requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transit routes and increasing the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Collaborating with ride-sharing services to ensure consistent availability and affordability is also critical.

Promoting the use of medical transport services and ensuring that residents are aware of their options is essential. Community outreach programs to educate residents about available resources and assist them in navigating the transportation landscape are also beneficial.

**Conclusion: Moving to Saint Clair and Managing Hypertension**

For individuals considering moving to Saint Clair and managing hypertension, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. While the town offers a close-knit community and a lower cost of living, the limitations in transportation options can present challenges.

By carefully assessing the drive times to healthcare providers, evaluating the availability of public transit and ride-sharing services, and exploring medical transport options, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Proactive planning, including securing reliable transportation for appointments, is key to successful hypertension management in Saint Clair. The Hypertension Score provides a valuable framework for understanding the transportation challenges and empowering residents to navigate the healthcare system effectively.