17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.44 percent of residents in 17979 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 8.04 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Summit Station (ZIP Code 17979)

Summit Station, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" analysis, delves into the intricate web of transportation options available to residents of ZIP code 17979, focusing on their ability to reach critical healthcare services, particularly for managing hypertension. We will assess the ease of movement, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all crucial factors impacting the health and well-being of the community. The goal is to understand the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking timely and effective healthcare, especially those managing chronic conditions.

The very nature of Summit Station, a small, rural community, influences its healthcare access. The absence of a local hospital or extensive medical facilities necessitates travel for many essential services. This geographical reality immediately places a premium on reliable transportation. The ability to reach a doctor's appointment, a pharmacy, or a specialist is not merely a convenience; it is a fundamental requirement for managing hypertension and other chronic conditions effectively.

**The Road Ahead: Driving to Healthcare**

For many residents, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare is the personal vehicle. The relative ease of driving, offering flexibility and direct routes, is a significant advantage. However, the distances involved and potential for inclement weather can introduce complexities. The primary arteries connecting Summit Station to healthcare hubs are Pennsylvania Route 895 and Interstate 81.

Traveling east on Route 895 provides access to Pottsville, the county seat, and home to the Schuylkill Medical Center-East Norwegian Street Campus. The drive, typically around 20-30 minutes, can be affected by traffic, particularly during peak hours. The road itself, while generally well-maintained, can be challenging during winter months. Further east, Route 895 merges with Route 61, offering additional healthcare options in the Hamburg area, a drive of roughly 45 minutes.

Heading west on Route 895 leads to Route 183, providing access to the Reading area and its extensive healthcare network. This journey, however, is more time-consuming, often requiring an hour or more, depending on traffic and the specific destination. Interstate 81, a major north-south highway, provides a faster, albeit longer, route to healthcare facilities in Harrisburg and beyond. This option, while offering speed, necessitates a longer drive, potentially over an hour, and involves navigating a busy interstate highway.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Valuable Option**

Public transportation options in Summit Station are limited, reflecting the rural character of the area. However, the Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) offers some services that can be vital for residents without personal vehicles. STS Route 30, while not directly serving Summit Station, offers connections to Pottsville, where individuals can access healthcare facilities and connect to other routes. This option, though requiring transfers, provides a crucial lifeline for those unable to drive.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor for individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations. The STS strives to provide accessible services, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transportation. This commitment to accessibility is paramount in ensuring that healthcare access is equitable for all residents. The schedules and frequency of these routes, however, are limited, potentially impacting the ability to attend appointments on time.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, although their presence may be less consistent than in more urban environments. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips to healthcare facilities.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. These services, such as First Transit and local ambulance companies, provide transportation for non-emergency medical appointments. They often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during transport. These services, while valuable, often require advance booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options.

**The Hypertension Score: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for Summit Station, therefore, is not a simple number. It is a complex evaluation of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. The score must consider the following factors: the availability of personal vehicles, the drive times to healthcare facilities, the accessibility and frequency of public transit, the reliability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport options.

The score must also acknowledge the challenges faced by residents with limited mobility, disabilities, or financial constraints. The lack of readily available public transit, coupled with the distances to healthcare facilities, can create significant barriers for individuals managing hypertension. This can lead to delayed or missed appointments, hindering effective management of the condition.

**Moving to Summit Station: Considerations for Healthcare**

For individuals considering moving to Summit Station, healthcare access should be a paramount concern. The availability of reliable transportation, the proximity to healthcare facilities, and the availability of support services are crucial factors to consider. Individuals with hypertension or other chronic conditions should carefully assess their ability to access healthcare services, considering the transportation options available and the potential challenges they may face.

The community's efforts to improve healthcare access, such as advocating for increased public transit options or supporting ride-sharing initiatives, can significantly impact the "Hypertension Score" and improve the health outcomes of residents. The ongoing commitment to addressing these transportation challenges is essential for ensuring that all residents of Summit Station have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives.