18614, Dushore, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18614, Dushore, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.02 percent of residents in 18614 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Troy Community Hospital with a distance of 27.73 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dushore, PA (ZIP Code 18614)

The pursuit of optimal health, especially when managing conditions like hypertension, hinges significantly on accessible healthcare. For residents of Dushore, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18614), the ability to reach medical appointments, obtain prescriptions, and engage in preventative care is a crucial aspect of their well-being. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" analysis, delves into the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare access in Dushore, providing a comprehensive overview for both current residents and those considering moving to Dushore. It examines the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, evaluating their practicality and potential impact on managing hypertension.

Dushore, nestled in the heart of Sullivan County, presents a unique challenge when it comes to transportation. The rural nature of the area, while offering a serene lifestyle, often translates to limited public transportation options and greater reliance on personal vehicles. This is a critical factor for individuals with hypertension, who may experience mobility limitations or require frequent medical visits. The "Hypertension Score" considers these factors, offering insights into the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare within and around the ZIP code.

**The Road to Care: Driving Times and Highway Considerations**

For many Dushore residents, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is the personal vehicle. The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves navigating the scenic but sometimes winding roads of Sullivan County. Route 220, the primary north-south artery, provides access to surrounding towns and cities where more specialized medical services may be available. Driving times to these locations are crucial for individuals with hypertension, as delays can exacerbate stress and anxiety, potentially impacting blood pressure.

Traveling south on Route 220 leads to Williamsport, a city with a more extensive array of medical specialists and hospitals, including UPMC Williamsport. The drive, approximately 60 miles, typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive time necessitates careful planning, especially for those with urgent medical needs or mobility limitations. The road conditions, particularly during winter months, can pose additional challenges, making reliable transportation even more critical.

Alternatively, traveling north on Route 220 provides access to Towanda, PA, which is about a 30-minute drive. Towanda offers some medical services, including a hospital and various clinics. This shorter distance makes it a more accessible option for routine appointments and urgent care needs. However, the availability of specialized services in Towanda might be limited compared to Williamsport, necessitating longer journeys for certain medical requirements.

Route 87, another significant road in the area, connects Dushore to other towns and villages. However, the winding nature of the road can make it a slower route, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. The "Hypertension Score" considers the implications of these varying drive times, recognizing that longer commutes can increase stress levels and potentially impact medication adherence.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Dushore is limited, a common characteristic of rural communities. This scarcity presents a significant hurdle for individuals with hypertension who may not own a vehicle or be unable to drive due to health conditions. The absence of readily available public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, which may be less reliable or more expensive.

Currently, there is no regularly scheduled bus service that directly serves Dushore. This lack of public transportation underscores the importance of exploring other options, such as ride-sharing services or medical transportation providers. The "Hypertension Score" acknowledges the challenges posed by the absence of public transit, recognizing the potential for isolation and difficulty in accessing healthcare for those without alternative transportation.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are becoming increasingly prevalent in many areas. However, their availability in rural areas like Dushore can be inconsistent. The "Hypertension Score" assesses the reliability of these services, considering factors like driver availability, pricing, and the potential for delays. For individuals with hypertension, the uncertainty of ride-sharing services can add to the stress of accessing healthcare.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles. While these services can be invaluable, they may come with higher costs and require advance booking. The "Hypertension Score" evaluates the accessibility and affordability of medical transportation options, recognizing their importance for those who cannot drive or utilize other forms of transportation.

Several medical transport brands may serve the area, though their specific coverage and availability should be confirmed. These could include local ambulance services or specialized medical transport companies. Investigating these options is crucial for individuals with hypertension who require reliable and accessible transportation to medical appointments.

**Healthcare Access and the Decision to Move**

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the impact of healthcare access on the decision to move to Dushore. For individuals managing hypertension, the availability and accessibility of healthcare services are paramount. This includes not only the presence of medical facilities but also the ease of transportation to those facilities.

Before moving to Dushore, prospective residents should thoroughly research the available healthcare options and the transportation infrastructure that supports them. This includes evaluating the drive times to hospitals and clinics, the availability of public transit or ride-sharing services, and the cost and reliability of medical transportation options.

The "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for assessing the overall healthcare access landscape in Dushore. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and research to ensure that individuals with hypertension can maintain their health and well-being. The score is not just a numerical value; it is a reflection of the challenges and opportunities that exist in this rural environment.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

To improve the "Hypertension Score" for Dushore, several recommendations can be considered. Encouraging the expansion of ride-sharing services, exploring partnerships with medical transportation providers, and advocating for community-based transportation solutions could significantly enhance healthcare access. Furthermore, promoting telehealth services can reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for routine check-ups and medication management.

The "Hypertension Score" for Dushore, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18614), reflects the unique transportation challenges faced by residents managing hypertension. While the rural setting offers a peaceful lifestyle, it also presents limitations in healthcare access. By carefully considering the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to specialized medical services, individuals can navigate the healthcare landscape and prioritize their well-being. For those considering moving to Dushore, a thorough assessment of these factors is crucial to ensure a healthy and fulfilling life.